If you’re looking to take your Harley-Davidson motorcycle to the next level, you might want to consider the Stage 3 upgrade.
This upgrade is designed to significantly increase the power and performance of your bike, but it comes at a cost.
We’ll share what the Stage 3 upgrade entails and what you can expect to pay for it.
Stage 3 Vs Stage 1 and 2 Upgrades
Before we dive into the specifics of the Stage 3 upgrade, it’s important to understand the differences between Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 upgrades.
Stage 1 upgrades typically involve installing a high-flow air cleaner and a new exhaust system to improve airflow and increase horsepower.
Stage 2 upgrades add a camshaft to the mix to further increase power. Stage 3 upgrades take things even further by increasing the engine displacement.
While Stage 1 and 2 upgrades can certainly improve the performance of your Harley, they pale in comparison to the power gains you can achieve with a Stage 3 upgrade.
Key Components of Stage 3 Upgrade
So, what exactly does a Stage 3 upgrade involve? Here are some of the key components:
- Big Bore Kit: This is the heart of the Stage 3 upgrade. It involves increasing the engine displacement by installing larger cylinders and pistons. This can increase the power output by as much as 40%.
- High-Performance Camshaft: The camshaft controls the timing of the engine’s valves and can significantly affect performance. A high-performance camshaft can improve throttle response and increase horsepower.
- High-Flow Air Cleaner: To take full advantage of the increased engine displacement and camshaft, you’ll need a high-flow air cleaner to provide a steady supply of air to the engine.
- Upgraded Exhaust System: A high-performance exhaust system can further improve airflow and increase horsepower.
- Tuning: To ensure that all of these components work together seamlessly, you’ll need to have your bike tuned by a professional.
All of these components add up to a significant increase in power and performance, but they also come at a cost.
Depending on the labor costs, parts needed, and their quality, a Stage 3 upgrade can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500.
Cost Breakdown of Harley Stage 3 Upgrade
If you’re looking to upgrade your Harley’s performance, a Stage 3 upgrade is a great option.
However, it’s important to understand the cost breakdown of this upgrade before making any decisions.
Parts Cost
The cost of the parts needed for a Harley Stage 3 upgrade can vary depending on the specific parts and their quality.
Expect this to cost you anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 on parts alone. This includes items such as a high-flow air cleaner, performance exhaust system, and upgraded camshaft.
It’s important to note that the cost of the parts can vary quite a bit depending on the brand and quality you choose.
While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in high-quality parts can pay off in the long run with better performance and durability.
Labor Cost
In addition to the cost of the parts, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of labor to install them.
The labor cost for a Harley Stage 3 upgrade can vary depending on the mechanic you choose and their hourly rate.
Depending on the shop, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for labor.
It’s important to choose a mechanic with experience working on Harley Davidson motorcycles to ensure the job is done correctly.
Additional Costs
In addition to the cost of parts and labor, there may be additional costs associated with a Harley Stage 3 upgrade.
These can include things like tuning and dyno testing to ensure the bike is running at peak performance.
You may also need to purchase additional items such as new spark plugs or fuel injectors to ensure the upgraded parts work properly.
These costs do vary depending on the specific needs of your bike.
Overall, a Harley Stage 3 upgrade total cost can run between $2,500 to $4,000, depending on the specific parts and labor costs involved.
While it may seem like a steep price to pay, the improved performance and overall ride experience can be well worth it for avid Harley riders.
Performance and Power Gains
If you’re considering a Stage 3 upgrade for your Harley, you’re probably wondering what kind of performance and power gains you can expect.
Well, the good news is that a Stage 3 upgrade can give you a significant boost in both horsepower and torque, as well as improved throttle response.
Engine Performance
The Stage 3 upgrade typically involves upgrading your engine’s components, including the camshaft, cylinder heads, and pistons.
These upgrades can result in a 30-40% increase in horsepower and a 15-20% increase in torque.
This means that your Harley will have more power and acceleration, making it more fun to ride.
Throttle Response
One of the biggest benefits of a Stage 3 upgrade is improved throttle response.
With the upgraded components, your engine will be able to breathe more freely, which means that it will respond more quickly when you twist the throttle.
This can make a big difference in how your Harley feels and performs, especially when you’re accelerating from a stop or passing other vehicles on the highway.
Power Boost
Another benefit of the Stage 3 upgrade is the power boost it provides.
With the increased horsepower and torque, your Harley will be able to handle more demanding riding conditions, such as steep hills or heavy loads.
You’ll also notice a difference in how your Harley sounds and feels, with a deeper, more powerful exhaust note and a smoother, more responsive ride.
Engine and Parts Details
When it comes to upgrading your Harley to Stage 3, you’ll need to modify your engine with high-performance parts to get the most out of your ride.
Here are the essential engine and parts details to consider for your Stage 3 upgrade.
Engine Modification
The Stage 3 upgrade involves modifying your engine to increase its performance.
This modification includes upgrading the cam, cylinders, and pistons. The cam upgrade is essential to improve your bike’s power and torque.
The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the engine’s valves, which determines how much air and fuel flow into the engine.
Upgrading the camshaft to a higher lift and duration will increase the engine’s power and torque.
Big Bore Kit
To increase the engine’s displacement, you can install a big bore kit.
A big bore kit increases the engine’s bore size, allowing more air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber.
This upgrade is essential for those looking for more power and torque. When installing a big bore kit, you’ll need to replace the cylinders, pistons, and gaskets.
Cam Upgrade
Upgrading your camshaft is an essential part of the Stage 3 upgrade.
The camshaft is what controls the opening and closing of the engine’s valves, which determines how much air and fuel flow into the engine.
Upgrading the camshaft to a higher lift and duration will increase the engine’s power and torque.
You can choose from a variety of camshafts, depending on your riding style and performance goals.
Impact on Ride and Sound
When it comes to upgrading to a Harley Stage 3, there are two major factors to consider: the impact on ride quality and the impact on sound quality.
Let’s take a closer look at both of these factors.
Ride Quality
One of the biggest reasons to consider a Stage 3 upgrade is the improvement in ride quality.
With a Stage 3 upgrade, you can expect to see significant gains in both horsepower and torque.
This means that your bike will have more power and acceleration, allowing you to get up to speed more quickly and easily.
In addition to the increased power, a Stage 3 upgrade can also improve the overall handling and stability of your bike.
This is especially true for touring models, which can benefit from the added power and stability on long rides.
However, it’s important to note that a Stage 3 upgrade is not for everyone. If you’re someone who prefers a more laid-back, relaxed ride, then a Stage 3 upgrade may not be the best choice for you.
But if you’re someone who loves to push your bike to its limits and enjoys the thrill of the ride, then a Stage 3 upgrade is definitely worth considering.
Sound Quality
Another major factor to consider when upgrading to a Stage 3 is the impact on sound quality.
With a Stage 3 upgrade, you can expect your bike to have a much deeper, more aggressive sound.
This is due to the increased airflow and exhaust flow, which results in a louder and more powerful exhaust note.
For many Harley riders, the sound of their bike is just as important as the ride itself.
A Stage 3 upgrade can give your bike a truly unique and unmistakable sound that will turn heads wherever you go.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that a Stage 3 upgrade can also result in increased noise levels.
This may not be an issue for some riders, but it’s something to consider if you live in a quiet neighborhood or frequently ride in areas with noise restrictions.
Tuning and Fuel Efficiency
Tuning Process
When you upgrade to a Stage 3 on your Harley, a proper tune is necessary to ensure optimal performance.
Tuning involves adjusting the air/fuel ratio, ignition timing, and other parameters to match the new components.
It’s important to have a professional tuner handle the job to avoid damaging your bike or reducing its lifespan.
A good tuner will use a dynamometer to measure the engine’s output and adjust the settings accordingly.
They may also make adjustments to the fuel injection system, exhaust, and other components to achieve the desired performance.
The tuning process can take several hours, but the results are worth it.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the concerns with upgrading to a Stage 3 is the impact on fuel efficiency.
While it’s true that you may see a decrease in gas mileage, the difference is usually minimal.
In fact, some riders report better fuel efficiency after upgrading due to the improved throttle response and overall performance.
However, it’s important to note that your riding style and conditions can also affect fuel efficiency.
Aggressive riding, heavy loads, and high speeds can all increase fuel consumption. On the other hand, cruising at a steady pace and avoiding sudden acceleration can help conserve fuel.
To further improve fuel efficiency, you can also consider using a fuel additive or switching to a more efficient fuel.
Some riders also choose to install an aftermarket tuner or fuel management system to fine-tune the air/fuel ratio and maximize mileage.
Models and Compatibility
Harley Davidson Models
When it comes to Harley Davidson models, the Stage 3 upgrade is compatible with a wide range of bikes.
Some of the most popular models include the Street Glide, Road Glide, Ultra Limited, and Road King.
These bikes are all part of the Touring family and are equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight engine.
If you own a Harley Davidson Street bike, you may still be able to upgrade to a Stage 3 kit, but it’s important to check with your mechanic or dealership to ensure compatibility.
Compatibility with Other Bikes
While the Stage 3 upgrade is specifically designed for Harley Davidson models, some riders may be curious about whether it can be installed on other bikes.
In general, it is not recommended to install a Stage 3 kit on a non-Harley Davidson motorcycle.
These kits are designed to work with the Milwaukee-Eight engine and may not be compatible with other engines.
It’s important to note that installing a Stage 3 kit on a non-compatible bike can lead to serious mechanical issues and may even void your warranty.
If you’re interested in upgrading your bike, it’s always best to consult with a professional mechanic or dealership to determine the best course of action.
Pros and Cons of Stage 3 Upgrade
If you’re considering a Stage 3 upgrade for your Harley, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making the investment.
Benefits
The benefits of a Stage 3 upgrade are clear. You can expect a significant increase in horsepower and torque, as well as much better throttle response.
This means that your bike will have more power and be more responsive, which can be a lot of fun on the open road.
Additionally, a Stage 3 upgrade can increase the resale value of your bike, making it a smart investment.
Drawbacks
However, there are some drawbacks to consider as well.
The biggest downside is the cost. A Stage 3 upgrade can be expensive, and it’s important to make sure that you’re prepared to make the investment before moving forward.
Additionally, you may see a decrease in gas mileage after the upgrade, which is something to keep in mind if you’re concerned about fuel efficiency.
Final Word
As you can see, the decision to invest in a Stage 3 upgrade is a personal one that should be based on your individual needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for more power and better performance, and you’re willing to make the investment, a Stage 3 upgrade can be a great choice.
Just be sure to consider the costs and potential drawbacks before making your decision.