My Sprint GT is running a bit bumpy at low revs, so I suspect it could be spark plug time (just done 18K at 6 years, so worth a check anyway). Thought I should check air filter too, and since I had a K&N on the Sprint ST, wondered whether it's worth changing from OEM on the GT. Not looking for any real (or imagined) performance increase, so is it worth the extra cost? Cheers Pete
In my humble opinion probably not, unless you’re doing lots of miles in a highly dusty environment. I opted to do a plug change on my 1050 tiger when I decided to keep it for another year after doing the NC500. It was running fine but figured why not. Like you I thought I’d also swap the air filter whilst I was at it. So bought 3 Iridium plugs and an OEM filter for £25. When I opened the airbox it had a K&N installed already, so swapped the oem one in and bought the K&N service kit (£16 from memory). Cleaned it, dried it and reoiled it and have it sealed in a zip lock bag. Bike runs exactly as it did before (so fitting the iridium plugs was probably pointless too)
I'm erring on the side of sticking with stock. The service schedule suggests it last would have had a 'C' service, but I've got no details of parts replaced then.
I, too, have a Sprint GT (2011). I installed the washable filter as a replacement for the OEM one, and have not noticed much difference. I was hoping to have a non-disposable replacement. I have since done as Boothman did, when I replaced the K&N washable with a paper filter, washed, oiled and bagged the K&N for next time (when I can be more patient). I have been told that the K&N lets a modicum more particulates into the engine, as it is not quite as efficient as a paper filter. Not sure that there is any factual basis for that, so I won't worry. But my bike has 43k miles on it, and I plan to ride it into the future (along with my Trophy SE). So I will explore that opinion a bit further before the next air filter change. Please let us know what you decide and why!
Hey Pete! That bumpness at low revs could definitely point to worn spark plugs, so checking them is a smart move. K&N is a solid choice but if you're not looking for a performance boost, the OEM filter might be just fine. K&N can improve airflow but the cost might not justify it. Always keep in mind that switching to a K&N fitler might require extra maintenance so if that doesn’t bother you, why not give it a shot? Let us know what you decide! Cheers, Florian
Off road use, definitely washable as I do mine a maximum of every other outing. Every time if dusty or muddy. On road use, intervals are greater with once a year probably excessive. I personally don't see anything to gain here by it being washable. Performance wise, as part of a raft of changes, remaps, exhaust, headwork etc. Yes go for it, but on its own you'll just kid yourself to justify the significantly greater cost over OE.
