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Buell Forum » 1125R Superbike Board » Archives 001 » Archive through April 28, 2010 » So what do we know about PowerCommanders? « Previous Next »

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98s1lightning
Posted on Friday, April 16, 2010 - 09:45 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Has anyone used one? The pro's and cons would be? How does it compare to others, IE EBR's, set up, tunability and simplicity? The Dyno Jet guy keeps pushing it as the best and he will be contacting PowerCommander to get the low down from them and I will post any and all info I find out.
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98s1lightning
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 12:33 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Come on guys, need some help here!
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Kevin_stevens
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 12:36 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

"Contacting Power Commander" : )

DynoJet *owns* Power Commander!

KeS
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98s1lightning
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 01:01 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I'm trying to personal info from those who have used them.
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Easyrider
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 01:38 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

98s1lightning,

The problem with a powercommander compared with a www.fuelsolutions.nl solution is that, the individual cells, cannot be adjusted. It is always a range of cells, and they are not equall in the stock flash.

So what happends is that the rich cells become richer and the poor cells become richer, only then the already rich cells become too rich and the poor cells will become oke ore are still too poor.

It will never be a 100% good solution.

When the cells where all adjusted on the specific exhaust you use like we do, then it would be a different story, only then you don't need a PWC.
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Buell101
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 10:05 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I have one on my 08 race bike, I like mine but I'm not a tuner. It's more feasible for me to take it to the HD dyno blocks away as opposed to hours to the next dyno and they are familar with the PCV software...

If your interested I have a new sealed in box PCV for 1125R (PC #15-016) $300 + shipping. I lowsided last weekend and need other parts and spares
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Ratbuell
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 10:33 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

The PC-V is a bit of a band-aid. As noted, you don't get very exact mapping capability with it. You select a block of RPM, and go "richer" or "leaner", as an average. And, it's a piggyback box - so it intercepts and alters the sensor signal before it gets to the ECM, "fooling" the ECM.

If *all* you're doing is looking to add fuel to keep AFVs in line for a new exhaust...it's a viable alternative. Be aware, though, that the "averaging" approach can give you flat spots in the RPM band...

Personally, though...I'd pony up the $ for either a premapped EBR ECM, or if you're good with tuning get one of the programmable EBR units. If you're gonna do it...do it right.
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Freight_dog
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 09:18 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

The Power Commander allows you to get the fueling set up specifically for your bike's configuration. The "plug and play" EBR ECM is a "one-size-fits-all" solution. As a result, some have had less than stellar results with it. Those who have had the PC V setup on a dyno have uniformly good results for less than the cost of a programmable Buell Racing ECM before tuning.

The biggest advantage of the plug and play ECM is price. The programmable ECM will give you the best results, but you are looking at over $1000 by the time you get a good tune. Also it will be harder to find a tuner willing to work with the software. The PC V will give you a custom tune with some limitations such as no timing changes, but every dyno shop is familiar with it and it is the most common tuning device used by all makes of motorcycles. A PC V with dyno setup should total under $600. It also provides convenient plug in options such as a quick shifter, wide-band tuning, etc. You will get best results with a custom tune.

So my take is, EBR plug and play: GOOD, PC V + custom tune: BETTER, EBR programmable + tune: BEST.
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98s1lightning
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 10:27 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Thats what I need to know, thanks.
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Freight_dog
Posted on Saturday, April 17, 2010 - 11:07 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

A couple other benefits of the PC V. You can set up two different maps (say, economy and best power) that you can switch between on the fly. Also since you are not modifying the stock ECM or changing out ECM's, you can change your bike back to stock very quickly and easily for warranty work and no need to worry about your ECM adapting the air/fuel ratios.

Of course, if you get a new flash for your ECM, you will need to re-tune your PC V to match as well.

(Message edited by Freight_dog on April 17, 2010)
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Froggy
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 02:33 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Set up right, you can have max economy and max power in the same map. On my XB12 I have gotten 75MPG with an American Sport Bike mapped bike with Micron full system.

I wouldn't waste money on the PC, for the few dollars more for the programmable Race ECM and a tune you will have superior results, and then you don't have to worry about a crappy add-on unit going berserk stranding you.
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Banana_man
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 05:30 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Froggy. If the pc goes tits up then all you need to do is unplug it out of the system. the bike will run as standard then surly? if you fit a EBR ecm and that goes tits up, you are definately stuck at the side of the road. IMHO
what do you think?

(Message edited by Banana_Man on April 18, 2010)
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Ratbuell
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 08:47 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I think if you're *planning* for things to go tits-up...you're looking at the entire sport the wrong way.

Also, AFAIK, the EBR pre-mapped computer can be set up for your bike, if you give them accurate information - what exhaust, what intake, what other mods...
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Gunut75
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 09:14 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

So what if you get the PC, and your ECM still goes tits up? Your still on the side of the road. I have rarely heard of an ECM just giving up the ghost. We have had a few here that used drill bits to test the durability, but very few situations where the ECM just fails. Also, if you do run the PC, how do you know if its running right then? I would get a custom tune, or programmable ECM before I started running two brain boxes, that may wind up fighting each other (keep in mind that you will have NO idea where your fuel maps are with the PC), and the victim being your motor. THEN your stuck on the side of the road.
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Zac4mac
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 10:09 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

At $250 for the EBR pump gas ECM, it's a no-brainer unless someone GIVES you a PC-V.
Got my ECM a few weeks ago, as someone else said - best $250 spent so far.

Z
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Milt
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 11:18 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

There's four of 'em, they fight monsters from old Japanese movies.

No wait - that's Power {Rangers}.

Never mind.
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Zip88
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 11:33 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I had my EBR ECM reprogramed for my new set up.
Barkers, K&N,and 1200 idle. It should arrive tuesday. Can't wait
A custom program ECM for $250 bucks from the people who built the bike is money well spent IMO. Remember the EBR ECM also has the timing adjusted. I like to support EBR as well as other sponsers of this incredible forum.
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Pittsburgh_guy
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 01:56 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

+1 Zip on supporting the sponsors on here.
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Dvy_bby9
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 02:14 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I have a PCV and love it. Money well spent IMO. I got a good deal, and plan on adding a race only map to it when I get more miles on the bike.
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Banana_man
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 06:05 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I live in the uk and as such the p+p ramps up the bill quite a lot. there is now one I now of who could give support this side of the pond. how would you guys handle my situation. I think at the moment that a PC would be a safer bet for support. However I really would rather support EBR as the is doing a fantastic job and think that things will grow from there that will benefit us all. however if he has no support from us then?
but I feel it a different story when your this side of the pond.
your thoughts will be appreciated
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Jules
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 06:16 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I'm in the UK too and order shedloads of stuff from the US. The P&P (and import duty) is offset by the fact that it's cheaper buying from there (especially if you strike it lucky with the exchange rate).

I just ordered some decals from EBR and could not add "international shipping" to the order so e-mailed them and got an e-mail back an hour later saying "Don't worry about it"

I'll be ordering a pump gas ECM and a few other bits & bobs soon, it'll still be cheaper than a PC and I'd rather have something that alters the map across the board than a bolt-on band-aid.

I'll be interested in the map for the Barker when the Twin Motorcyles one is done and that's just shipping from Holland for us (or online delivery if we're really lucky).

Prices for parts in the US are about the same in $ as ther are in £ in the UK so with the exchange rate we still do OK.
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Jules
Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2010 - 06:21 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

BTW - I paid $53 for shipping on the Barker exhaust and considering the bargain price of the pipe itself I was chuffed to bits..

It's a shame it was stuck in customs for a week and I paid VAT on it but that does not always happen.
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Mrbuell
Posted on Monday, April 19, 2010 - 12:06 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

I have the PC V and the AT-100 I welded in 2 bungs and just started to play and it has already pick up a bunch. and the mapping is different for each cylinder. Barker exhaust works great too.
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Dvy_bby9
Posted on Monday, April 19, 2010 - 02:39 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

You guys that are getting the EBR ecm should post up some dyno #'s and A/F ratios so I can compare it to my "bolt on band aid".
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Stevek1125r
Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 - 05:37 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

YEA i doubt we will see many EBR ECM dyno Graphs.... though i don't know why not... i mean 250.00 plus MAYBE an extra 100 for a dyno session is stil cheaper than a PCV yet i don't see the EBR ECM dyno's


MRbuell how are you liking the dual WBo2 setup?
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Freight_dog
Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 - 06:25 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Last I heard, EBR didn't have a dyno, and the one size fits all slip on map was set up by FMF for their Apex can.

EBR can change parameters like global adjustments for pump gas or lowering your idle speed, but you are not getting a custom map.

All I'm saying is the EBR isn't a 100% solution because it hasn't worked well for a few people. A PC with a tune will work well every time.
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Stevek1125r
Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 - 06:29 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Last i heard ebr has a dyno and a HMF they are testing, but i heard this from a buddy.. not from EBR..
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Chevycummins
Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 - 06:57 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Stevek1125r, your buddy is correct.
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Mrbuell
Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 - 08:28 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

So far I like the set up. You ride it and it saves the trim values. You just save those to the map and ride some more. I have only had it on since Friday. So we shall see in a week how it has done.
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Blur
Posted on Saturday, April 24, 2010 - 11:46 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

Just a quick questions about the EBR ECM. Are you guys just buying these and plugging them in or are you calling EBR, letting them know your set up and having them preprogram it that way?

I have a jap race bike that is tuned and runs great and I just noticed that the 1125's stock tune is awful. It just feels like it needs a tune.

My plans are to install a slip on and I'm wondering if the EBR ECM will give me the results I'm looking for. I'll have to call EBR but does their preprogramed race ECM work with stock exhaust and slips ons? Or only one?
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Jules
Posted on Saturday, April 24, 2010 - 12:34 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post    Move Post (Custodian/Admin Only) Ban Poster IP (Custodian/Admin only)

If you do a search you'll find lots of info on this but the basic is that the RACE ECM was developed for one particular exhaust, it will "work" with a number of slipons and the vast majority of people buying it have reported they are very happy with the enhanced "drivability" and smoothness.

You'd need to specify a few things, for a start you'll want a pump gas one if you're using the bike on the street, you can ask for the tickover to be reduced too, if you are in UK/Europe you'd need to let them know you have the sidestand switch fitted.

Not all 1125s have "awful" tunes - it depends on which flash was installed in the one you tried, mine runs fine with the stock ECM and latest flash
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