Choosing High Performance Plug Wires

Just as a set of bum plug wires can cost you horsepower, a really good set can actually make you some, about a 1 - 2 horsepower gain just by changing the wires.  If your wires are worn, weathered frayed or cracked, they can generate misfires and hard starting and foul plugs.  Installing a new set of wires will not only restore power but it may very well increase it.

Know this, Stock spark plug wires are marginal, at best, when new and just get worse with time.  If yours are more then 1 - 2 years old I's suggest you replace them.  This could be the best tune-up tip of all.

You should also know that there is NO appreciable improvement in power to be had by using so-called "High Performance" plug wires.  Independent tests have shown the most you'll gain is about 2 hp, definitely not something you'll feel going down the road.  That being said, a good set of wires (we at the shop agree that Taylor Spiro Wound wires are the way to go) will make a noticeable difference in the way your Harley runs on the street.  Engine "pinging" is markedly reduced if not eliminated.  Starting improves and throttle response is crisper.  And that's what counts.  Bottom line is this...Spark energy affects power, and plug wires affect spark energy -- Nuff said!

Stock wires perform adequately right up to about 50 - 60 hp, 5200 - 5500 rpm what they don't do is help the EPA inspired lean jetting dip in the power curve that usually shows up between 2000 - 3000 rpm.  A good set of wires will noticeably reduce this hole and overall make your bike run more efficiently.

The cost, as of this writing you can pick up a set of Taylor wires, in the color of your choice, for right around $33.00.  Click Here to see Our Full Line of Spark Plug Wires & Accessories.

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"RJL" 8/07
Rev. 4/10