Needle Cross reference and performance thread, NOT jetting

[Torch654]

I have found bits and pieces of info on swapping needles for performance and that the Kawasaki and PWK numbers can be a pain to cross. At my local dealer when I asked for a needle one leaner than stock they gave me a N82N.

[01KX5WOODSRIDER]

The N82N is leaner than stock. The N82R was stock on 95K5 its 4 sizes leaner than current needle. These needles are only leaner from idle to around 1/4 throttle. I am trying a N82T and so far its the best I've tried.

[KXcam22]

Kehin and OEM numbers are always different.  On the Sudco site there is a cross reference chart that helps figure out the OEM numbers.  Nice to see guys are trying leaner needles. I plan to optimize mine next summer. My jetting is crisp but there still some pesky rich spots in the pilot to needle tranitions.  What's the elevation of Nashville?. (fun town - I had an absolute blast last time I was there). I might have to try that "T" needle.  Cam.

[Torch654]

Cam, what needle are you running now?

[01KX5WOODSRIDER]

Cam, I think we are 500 above sea level. A friend had a 98 500 and we tried the the N82R needle in his bike with a 52 idle jet and it ran perfect. My 01 has always been rich down low. I rode at Lorretta Lynns fall ride last month and it was finally idling smooth and not loading up. I have the N82T needle in with 52 idle jet clip in 2nd slot.
It was a little lean above 1/4 throttle but I was just happy it was finally clean down on bottom. I will move clip before next ride and see whats happens.
          ...Rick

[Torch654]

An update. I put the M82N needle in at the 3rd clip and went up and down the driveway. I is a lot crisper from 1/8 to 1/4 throttle. The plug doesn't show that I am running lean, but I will check it more closely when I go out next. Hopefully Thursday or Friday.

BTY I am riding at 500 to 1500 feet and 40 to 60 degrees.

[KXcam22]

Torch,
  My '92 is running the stock needle N82M all the way down, 58p 165m at 2500' at 50-100 degF.  Starts and runs excellent but still could be better 1/8 to 1/4 throttle. Cam.

[Torch654]

An update, with the leaner needle I can get the mid cleaned up just right. It will be the hot setup in the summer. Although I put the stocker back in for the winter and I get better traction with it a little rich.