I just looked at the K&N, KN-303 that I have sitting here. It's made in Thailand.
So far it appears there is no evidence of anything better except for price and convenience. That is what I expected but every now and then somebody discovers something new. I learned today K&N is now Chinese. I am not sure if that is better or worse that Japanese. Looks like I will stick with OEM for now.
i call your question and raise with another: is there any evidence the OEM filter is any better than the others?i use the wix 51358
Hate to break this to you, but there's a whole shipload of products that used to be made in Japan or [insert name of country] now made in China, including motorcycles and engine parts. As long as the product specs are met and there is no difference in product quality, little you can do about it. Those Apple iPads are made in China ya know. Japan has been sourcing products from other countries for a couple decades now. I can remember when Japanese products were considered cheap junk.
Then don't buy K&N filter either because they are made by the same company, Champion Laboratories...Honestly, let's quit beating this to death. If you change your oil and filter every 3000 miles/3 months, any modern day filter should be suffice (unless it's defective of corse). If buying an OEM filter makes you feel better about your bike, then do it. Same goes for K&N, Amsoil or any other brand...
Hey, my fiance' is made in Thailand and she's quality.
And great food too.
have only used the OEM one so far (one change only 2063 miles).i noticed the OEM is identicle to the HOnda OEM for my Nighthawk.
i use the wix 51358