Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

Will not fit OEM cover. Use with an aftermarket round center mounted air cleaner cover. Includes a washable high flow air filter element. Note: See 954487 for the optional rain sock for use in extreme weather conditions.

Fits: > 91-21 XL (excl. XR1200). With OEM round aftermarket air cleaner covers (NU) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

The Vance & Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner Kit for 2007-later Harley-Davidson XL Sportster models (Part MS981817) is a performance-oriented intake upgrade designed to improve airflow, throttle response, and overall engine performance while giving your motorcycle a sleek, minimalist look. Built by Vance & Hines, a respected name in aftermarket motorcycle performance parts, the VO2 Naked kit provides a combination of airflow efficiency and customization options that appeal to riders who want both form and function. (Vance & Hines – AIR | FUEL | EXHAUST) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

At the core of the VO2 Naked Air Cleaner Kit is a high-flow washable filter element that replaces the restrictive stock air cleaner. This element is engineered to allow significantly more air into the engine compared to OEM components, which can improve combustion efficiency and responsiveness throughout the powerband. The washable design not only reduces long-term maintenance costs but also ensures that the intake system continues to breathe freely over thousands of miles. (Vance & Hines – AIR | FUEL | EXHAUST) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

A standout feature of the VO2 Naked kit is the inclusion of Vance & Hines’ Force™ Velocity Stack backing plate and a billet venturi machined from billet aluminum. The velocity stack and venturi are designed to smooth and accelerate incoming air, reducing turbulence and increasing the volume of air delivered to the throttle body. This improved airflow dynamic helps the engine pull in a denser charge of air, which can translate to stronger throttle response and better performance gains when paired with appropriate fuel tuning and exhaust upgrades. (RevZilla) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

Unlike many air cleaner kits that include a decorative cover, the VO2 Naked unit is sold “naked” — meaning it does not come with an air cleaner cover. This design choice allows you to either run the intake as-is for a raw, aggressive race-inspired appearance, or to pair it with an aftermarket cover of your choice to match your bike’s style. Some riders use a round cover from other aftermarket brands, while others appreciate the exposed, mechanical look of the naked unit. (RevZilla) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

Installation of the VO2 Naked kit is straightforward. It’s a direct bolt-on replacement for the stock air cleaner, mounting directly to the throttle body without extensive modification. Riders should be aware, however, that because the kit significantly changes the airflow characteristics of the engine, pairing it with a fuel management system or tuner — such as the Vance & Hines FP4, FuelPak FP3, or a custom ECU tune — is strongly recommended. Fuel tuning helps optimize the air-fuel mixture for best performance and throttle response, reducing the risk of running too lean or causing drivability issues. (RevZilla) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

The VO2 Naked Air Cleaner Kit is made in the USA, a point of pride for Vance & Hines and a reassurance of quality for many riders. Its components are engineered for rugged use on the street or light track duty, and the high-flow washable filter means that performance gains can be sustained without expensive filter replacements over time. (RevZilla) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

While specific horsepower gains will vary depending on the bike model, exhaust system, and tuning setup, owners commonly report improved mid-range and top-end power, crisper throttle response, and a more aggressive intake sound once the VO2 Naked is installed and properly tuned. It’s particularly effective when used as part of a Stage 1 performance upgrade alongside aftermarket exhaust and fuel tuning, where the combined enhancements make the engine feel noticeably more alive and responsive. (Vance & Hines – AIR | FUEL | EXHAUST) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817

In summary, the Vance & Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner Kit MS981817 is a versatile and performance-focused intake upgrade. It delivers enhanced airflow and responsiveness, allows customization through optional covers, and complements other performance modifications on 2007 and later Harley-Davidson XL models. Whether you’re seeking more power, a distinctive look, or both, this VO2 Naked kit offers riders an affordable and effective way to elevate the performance personality of their motorcycle. (RevZilla) Vance Hines VO2 Naked Air Cleaner kit 07 LATER XL MS981817