Airbox backfire screen

I was just wondering how many guys remove this screen, or if there is no benefit to keeping it or removing it. I know motocross bikes usually loose it, but they try and trim as much weight as possible, any feedback would be appreciated.

I have kept mine installed now for 2.5 years, I just keep thinking it would save alot of headaches if the filter element were to break up and try to get sucked in.

We leave them in, they keep small debris out of your motor.

Always removed mine never had an issue in 10 years of husky ownership via 510, 450, and 2 x310's

Sure shouldn't be a restriction I don't think, so I just leave them in.

I've left mine in. I thought they are backfire screens, I sure don't need a fire under my butt.

Thanks for the comments, she stays in.

I'm cleaning my filter like old husky rider advised and for fits and giggles I'm installing mine. It's been in a bag of parts since I got the bike. Just going to see how or if any difference is felt. I was thinking it might be like a 10 hp addition lol!

Yea hold on tight the first time you wack it open.Unreal HP gains!

Can't wait! Now to figure out how to install a triple wing for extra downforce. Thats like 10 more hp on top of that. Lol


Sorry, continue on....

I think it gives a slightly better seal and more surface area for the edge of the filter, so I'd keep it.

So, I've had mine installed on my bike for 6 months now and didn't have any difference in performance. The only thing I did was put grease on both sides of the rubber sealing surface before installing my air filter. I noticed that since the screen is metal and the sealing surface is molded around the edges of the screen, the screen sits with small waves from the metal. I tried flattening out the screen the best i could. I just figure the grease is way cheaper than finding out how much ingesting foreign matter would cost$$$$$