This might be a good time to point out some small differences in riding styles - or better still remind some readers of the kind of riding my TRX encounters. The Algodones to Glamis article on the Thread Spread section of my site is no joke (please see - http://www.macdizzy.com/mexico.htm ), in fact that ride is common as are about a hundred other rides we take out there and other places as well. My TRX is set up for sand riding/racing. My typical 270 cc set up is 113 to 118 octane fuel with a compression ratio well into the upper stratosphere. The engine is detailed more specifically on my Glamis Sand Dunes page. The point here is that it is an extreme service duty engine. Though I have two engines for my TRX, only one of them has seen very many miles. The original engine has about 1000 miles on it. The engine that has all the miles and has been everywhere and back has always been filtered with a K&N - you may remember that the filter wraps have only been around for a few years so you can probably guess that it's been through thousands of miles without the extra protection. This engine has been a 250, a 270, a 295, a 310 and a 330. It was just last year that I rebuilt its crankshaft for the first time. I took the liberty of doing so when the main bearings developed too much side clearance. At that time I changed the rod. Granted, I perform maintenance to this engine much more frequently than most people but if it this statement doesn't account for the ability of that filter to do a good job of keeping dirt out of an engine then it must be the superior materials and craftsmanship Honda put into the crank to begin with. If not that then the two stroke oil I use. If there has to be a reason these crankshafts last so long please don't say that it's related to the easy riding style. There are few riders on this planet who have dished out more abuse to a TRX than I have since I bought mine new off the dealers showroom floor in April of 1986.

When it comes to breathing I'll take a K&N any day. Those concerned about maximum longevity can buy another filter if they choose. I've seen engines filtered with all types of elements and destroyed from a myriad of reasons and an engine sucking in dirt is at the top of the list (though it's usually related to neglect, abuse or both). The thing is, there is no guarantee that any filter will keep an engine perfectly dirt free. If you need a guarantee, buy a toaster.