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Harley Stage 3 Upgrade Cost: Worth It? Yes and No (Here’s Why)

by

Chase Manhattan

Chase Manhattan Avatar
Owner and Editor at The Wrench Network

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Hey y’all, it’s Chase Manhattan! I’m a life-long automotive and motorcycle enthusiast with a knack for diagnostics that I hope to share with you! Lately, I’ve been running my own motorcycle rental business, which you can read about here, and it has been a great experience that has allowed me to own numerous bikes that I probably couldn’t justify otherwise. Plus, it’s been a great way to experience new places while on vacation. If you haven’t heard of them before, I definitely recommend checking out the Riders-Share platform if you get the itch to ride while away from home, or if you want to explore a cheaper way to own and ride motorcycles!

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Give your Harley a heart-thumping surge of power that sets your pulse racing. It’s an adrenaline rush you’ve likely contemplated—taking that leap for a Stage 3 upgrade. However, the looming question is always, ‘Is the Harley Stage 3 upgrade cost worth it?‘ As someone with extensive experience in the biking world, I know this decision isn’t as straightforward as it appears. The answer straddles the line between ‘yes’ and ‘no’, with diverse factors that can tip the balance. So, ride along with me as we delve into the nuts and bolts of investing in a Harley Stage 3 upgrade, shedding light on both compelling reasons and potential roadblocks. Lets get to it!

How Much Is The Harley Stage 3 Kit By Itself?

The Harley Stage 3 upgrade packages can range anywhere from $1,600 to $2,500. This is purely for the parts required for the upgrade, which include a big bore kit, high-compression forged pistons, better valve springs, and more aggressive cams.

But remember, the cost of the parts is just one part of the total Harley Stage 3 upgrade cost. You also need to consider the cost of labor to install these parts, which brings us to the next point.

How Much Do Dealers Charge To Install The Kit?

Installation of the Harley Stage 3 upgrade is not a task for the faint-hearted. It requires skill and experience, so it’s generally recommended to have it done by a professional mechanic.

This is a picture of a Harley Davidson, mostly disassembled, to have the Stage 3 kit installed.

The labor cost for the installation can range anywhere from $600 to $1,400, depending on where you get it done. Independent mechanics might charge lower rates compared to Harley-Davidson dealerships, which can charge anywhere from $125-$140 per hour of labor.

So, What’s The Harley Stage 3 Upgrade Cost Total?

When you combine the cost of parts and labor, the total Harley Stage 3 upgrade cost can range from $2,200 to $3,100. This is a significant financial commitment, so it’s important to consider whether it’s worth the cost. And, that’s without consider the dyno tune cost. However, sometimes you can get by with a quality tuner.

And of course, make sure it’s compatible with your bike: The Best Tuner For Milwaukee 8 114 Engines (+Alternatives)

Is The Stage 3 Upgrade Worth It?

The answer to this question depends on your personal preferences and riding style. The Stage 3 upgrade provides a significant boost in power and performance, with a 30-40% increase in horsepower and a 15-20% increase in torque.

This is an example of Harley Davidson's Screamin' Eagle Stage 3 Kit. Shown are the new cylinder heads, exhausts, pistons, and related components.

However, there are potential downsides to consider. For one, the upgrade is expensive. Additionally, it can decrease gas mileage due to the increased power and performance.

Stage 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3 Comparison

It’s also important to consider the different stages of upgrades available for Harley Davidson motorcycles:

  • Stage 1: This upgrade typically includes an improved air cleaner and exhaust system, providing a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque.
  • Stage 2: This upgrade includes all the parts from Stage 1, with the addition of more aggressive cams, providing a more significant increase in power.
  • Stage 3: This is the most comprehensive upgrade, including everything from Stage 2 plus a big bore kit and other performance parts.

So, when comparing the stages, the Stage 3 upgrade provides the most significant increase in power and performance, but at a higher cost.

Here's an infographic titled "Harley Stages Explained" detailing the equipment included in each stage kit.

Related articles:
> Harley Stage 1 Upgrade Cost
> Harley Stage 2 Upgrade Cost
> Harley Stage 4 Upgrade Cost

How To Decide For Yourself, If It’s Worth It Or Not

Deciding whether the Harley Stage 3 upgrade cost is worth it or not comes down to your personal preferences and budget. If you’re looking for a significant boost in power and performance and are willing to invest in your bike, then it could be worth the cost.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or don’t require the additional power, then a Stage 2 or even Stage 1 upgrade might be a better fit. Keep in mind, in either scenario you’ll need to have the bike tuned to accommodate the changes to its air/fuel ratio. This is typically done with a tuner designed for Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Related article: Harley Stage Kits Explained

Community Feedback

To help you make an informed decision, let’s look at some feedback from the community.

What Do Forum Users Have To Say?

Many forum users praise the Stage 3 upgrade for the significant increase in power and performance. However, some users note that the cost is a significant factor to consider.

What About Reddit Users Experience?

Similar to forum users, Reddit users also praise the Stage 3 upgrade. However, some users mention that the upgrade can decrease gas mileage.

Looking for maximum performance? Check these out:
– ThunderMax Tuner Reviews: A Complete, In-Depth Analysis
– ThunderMax vs Power Vision Tuner Shootout

Wrapping Up and Recap

The Harley Stage 3 upgrade cost can be a significant investment, but it can also provide a significant boost in power and performance. However, it’s important to consider your budget, riding style, and personal preferences before deciding whether it’s worth the cost.

Remember to also factor in the potential decrease in gas mileage and the cost of labor for the installation. Ultimately, the decision is personal and should be based on what you value most in your riding experience.

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