So, you’ve got your shiny Harley and you’re lovin’ it, right? That baby purrs like a kitten and roars like a lion.
But, what if I told you that lion could roar louder and prouder? Enter the Harley Stage 2 Upgrade.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, “How much is this gonna set me back?” Look, you can’t put a price on happiness, but you can budget for badassery.
So, pull up a stool, let’s chat like the garage pals we are, and break down the wallet damage we’re talkin’ about here.
Ready to kick your Harley’s performance up a notch?
Price of Stage 2 Upgrade
The average cost of a Stage 2 upgrade in 2023 ranges between $900 and $1500 on average. This estimate includes the cost of parts, labor, and tuning.
However, keep in mind that the actual cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the model of your Harley, the condition of your engine, and the labor rate of the mechanic.
Let’s break down the cost of a Stage 2 upgrade further.
The kit typically includes a cam and pushrod kit, which costs around $400 to $500.
Labor costs for installing the cams are approximately $600 for around 6 hours of work. Lastly, tuning will cost around $200 to $300.
When it comes to labor costs, it’s essential to find a reputable mechanic who specializes in Harley upgrades. You want to ensure that the job is done correctly, and your investment is protected.
Overall, a Stage 2 upgrade can be a cost-effective way to increase the performance of your Harley.
However, it’s essential to consider the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs. It’s also crucial to keep in mind that the upgrade may affect your bike’s warranty.
Stage 2 Vs Stage 1 Upgrade
Before we dive into the specifics of a stage 2 upgrade, let’s first discuss the differences between stage 1 and stage 2 upgrades.
A stage 1 upgrade typically includes modifications such as an upgraded air intake, exhaust system, and tuning.
This can improve the performance of your Harley, but a stage 2 upgrade takes things to the next level.
A stage 2 upgrade typically includes all of the modifications of a stage 1 upgrade, but also includes upgraded camshafts, pushrods, and lifters.
This allows for more air and fuel to be drawn into the engine, which gives your bike improved horsepower and torque.
Benefits of Stage 2 Upgrade
So, why should you consider a stage 2 upgrade for your Harley? Here are a few benefits:
- Improved Performance: A stage 2 upgrade can significantly improve the performance of your Harley, with increased horsepower and torque.
- Better Sound: Upgrading your exhaust system as part of the upgrade can give your Harley a deeper, more aggressive sound.
- More Customization Options: With a stage 2 upgrade, you have more customization options available to you, allowing you to truly make your Harley your own.
Of course, there are some downsides to consider as well. A stage 2 upgrade can be expensive, with costs ranging from $900 to $1,500 or more.
Additionally, the installation process can be complex, so it’s important to find a qualified mechanic to perform the upgrade.
Overall, a stage 2 upgrade can be a great way to take your Harley to the next level in terms of performance and customization.
Components of Harley Stage 2 Upgrade
Do you know what components are involved in a Stage 2 upgrade?
First up is the cam upgrade. This is the heart of the Stage 2 upgrade and is responsible for increasing your bike’s power and torque.
A camshaft kit is usually included in the upgrade, and this kit will typically contain cams, pushrods, and cam cover gaskets.
The Eagle SE8-462 cam is a popular choice for Stage 2 upgrades.
Next, you’ll need to upgrade your exhaust system. A Stage 2 upgrade requires a high-flow exhaust system to allow the engine to breathe better.
This will help increase your bike’s power and torque, and give it a deeper, more aggressive sound.
To get the most out of your Stage 2 upgrade, you’ll also need to upgrade your air filter.
You’ll find that a high-flow air filter helps your engine breathe better, which increases its power and torque output.
Another important component of a Stage 2 upgrade is the tuning. You’ll need to get your bike tuned to ensure that everything is working together properly.
A good tune will help optimize your bike’s performance and ensure that it’s running at its best.
Other components that may be included in a Stage 2 upgrade include adjustable pushrods, ignition components, and valve train upgrades.
These upgrades can help increase your bike’s power and torque even further.
Performance Impact of Stage 2 Upgrade
Wanna know what kind of performance boost you can expect?
First things first, the Stage 2 upgrade is designed to increase your bike’s power and torque.
The cam swap and other performance upgrades will give you a significant improvement in low-to-mid rpm range. You’ll feel a noticeable difference in throttle response and lift.
The power kit of the stage 2 upgrade delivers power at three thousand rpm. It also produces 90 rear wheel horsepower.
The kit allows you to accelerate to maximum speed without any damage to the engine or the bike.
The torque kit is ideal for riders who want instant passing power at cruising speeds.
The performance cam upgrade will also increase your rev limit, giving you more room to play with.
The kit’s mid-to-upper rpm range performance is also impressive. You’ll notice a significant improvement in acceleration and speed.
But it’s not just about the numbers. The Stage 2 upgrade will also change the look and feel of your bike.
The increased power and torque will give you a more aggressive ride. You’ll feel more in control and confident on the road.
It’s worth noting that the Stage 2 upgrade is just the foundation for future performance upgrades.
If you’re serious about getting the most out of your Harley, you’ll want to consider additional upgrades down the line.
And remember, it’s essential to get a dyno tune after the Stage 2 upgrade.
This will ensure that your bike is running at its best and that you’re getting the most out of your new performance upgrades.
Potential Risks and Considerations
When considering a Harley Stage 2 upgrade, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and considerations involved.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before making the upgrade:
- Engine Damage: While a Stage 2 upgrade can increase the power and performance of your motorcycle, it can also put additional stress on the engine. This can lead to engine damage if the upgrade is not done properly or if the engine is not in good condition to begin with. It’s important to have a professional mechanic perform the upgrade to ensure that it is done correctly and that your engine is in good shape.
- Gas Mileage: A Stage 2 upgrade can also have an impact on your motorcycle’s gas mileage. Because the upgrade increases power and performance, your motorcycle may require more fuel to operate. This can result in decreased gas mileage. It’s important to keep this in mind and budget accordingly for the increased fuel costs.
- Airflow: A Stage 2 upgrade typically involves upgrading the air intake and exhaust system to improve airflow. This can have a significant impact on the performance of your motorcycle. However, it’s important to ensure that the new air intake and exhaust system is properly installed and tuned to avoid any issues with airflow.
- Gaskets: Upgrading to a Stage 2 kit typically involves replacing the gaskets on your motorcycle. This is necessary to ensure that the new components fit properly and that there are no leaks. It’s important to use high-quality gaskets and to ensure that they are installed correctly to avoid any issues down the road.
Harley Stage 3 Vs Stage 2
Not sure what the difference is between Stage 2 or Stage 3 Harley upgrades?
A Stage 2 upgrade typically involves upgrading your Harley’s air intake, exhaust system, and adding a performance camshaft.
This upgrade can increase your Harley’s horsepower and torque, making it more responsive and powerful.
On the other hand, a Stage 3 upgrade involves all the specifications of a Stage 2 upgrade, but with the addition of big bore cylinders and an increase in engine displacement.
This upgrade can significantly increase your Harley’s power and performance, making it a beast on the road.
Of course, with great power comes great cost.
A Stage 3 upgrade is significantly more expensive than a Stage 2 upgrade, with the cost of parts alone ranging from $1,600 to $2,500.
And if you’re not doing the work yourself, you can expect to pay even more for labor costs.
Additional Stage 2 Upgrade Options
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your Harley to Stage 2, but did you know that there are additional upgrades you can make to your Stage 2 upgrade that can take your bike to the next level?
Let’s take a look at some of the options.
Fuel Management System
One of the most popular upgrades for any Harley, not just those with Stage 2 upgrades, is a fuel management system.
This upgrade allows you to adjust your fuel-to-air ratio to optimize performance and power.
There are many different options on the market, but some of the most popular include the Vance & Hines Fuelpak and the Dynojet Power Commander.
Sound System
If you’re a Harley rider, you know that the sound of your bike is just as important as its performance.
Upgrading your sound system can give your bike a deeper, more aggressive growl that will turn heads wherever you go.
Some popular options include the Vance & Hines Big Radius 2-into-1 exhaust and the Rinehart Racing Slimline Duals.
Stage 1 Upgrade
Before you upgrade to Stage 2, it’s important to make sure you’ve already completed a Stage 1 upgrade.
This includes upgrading your air intake and exhaust system to improve airflow and increase power.
Without a Stage 1 upgrade, your Stage 2 upgrade won’t be as effective.
Combustion Chamber
Upgrading your combustion chamber can help improve your bike’s power and efficiency.
One popular option is the S&S Cycle Super Stock cylinder heads, which feature a redesigned combustion chamber and improved airflow.
Camshaft
The camshaft is one of the most important components of your engine, and upgrading it can have a significant impact on your bike’s performance.
Some popular options include the S&S Cycle 551 camshaft and the Andrews 48H.
Tuning Upgrade
Finally, it’s important to make sure your bike is properly tuned after any upgrades.
A tuning upgrade can help optimize your fuel-to-air ratio and ensure your bike is running at peak performance.
Some popular options include the Dynojet Power Vision and the Screamin’ Eagle Pro Street Tuner.