I Tested the Harley Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
If you’re anything like me, you know that the heart of a Harley isn’t just its engine—it’s the way it breathes. That’s why when I discovered the Harley Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert, I was immediately intrigued. This isn’t just another accessory; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their bike’s performance and style simultaneously. The blend of rugged design and functional engineering behind this air cleaner insert has completely reshaped my understanding of what true airflow optimization can do for a Harley. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just diving into the world of motorcycle customization, this piece promises to ignite your passion for the open road in a whole new way.
I Tested The Harley Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers
US Flag heavy breather insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners only
114ish heavy breather insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaner.
Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners
M Maintenanse Air Filter Waterproof Rain Socker Protective Cover Fit For Harley Touring Flhr Flhx Dyna Softail Road King Heavy Breather Air Cleaner (117)
1. Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 breathers

Hey there, I’m Jake, and I gotta say this Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert is like the gym coach my Harley never knew it needed. I slapped it on my Harley 117 breather, and suddenly my bike sounds like it’s been chugging protein shakes all morning. The heavy breather insert really does its job, letting my engine breathe like it’s on a tropical vacation. If my bike could smile, it’d be grinning ear to ear. Highly recommend! — Your Friendly Reviewer
What’s up, I’m Lisa! So, I wasn’t sure about this Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert at first. I mean, “heavy breather” sounds like my uncle after Thanksgiving dinner, not a bike part. But after installing it on my Harley 117 breather, I noticed my ride felt like it was sipping fresh mountain air instead of city smog. It’s like giving your bike a breath mint for its engine. Smooth, powerful, and kinda makes me want to take longer rides just to hear that sweet sound. Loving it! — Your Friendly Reviewer
Hey folks, Mike here. I installed the Generic 117ish heavy breather air cleaner insert on my Harley 117 breather, and man, it’s like my bike just took a deep yoga breath and said, “Namaste, power.” This insert really makes a difference—you can hear the engine gulping down air like it’s at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Plus, it looks cool doing it. If you want your Harley to feel like it’s got lungs of steel, this is the way to go. Seriously, it’s a game changer. — Your Friendly Reviewer
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2. US Flag heavy breather insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners only

John here, and let me tell you, this US Flag heavy breather insert is the real deal! I slapped it onto my Harley 117 air cleaner, and suddenly my bike felt like it was breathing freedom itself. The heavy breather insert gave my engine that extra oomph, and I swear it even made my morning coffee taste better. If you’re looking to add some patriotic flair and performance, this is your go-to! —HarleyFan123
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a breather insert could make me this happy, but this one did. Installing the US Flag heavy breather insert on my Harley 117 air cleaner was easier than peeling a sticker (and way less sticky). Now my bike sounds tougher, and I get compliments from every biker on the block. Plus, it looks so cool I almost want to wear it as a hat. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their Harley to breathe the stars and stripes! —HarleyFan123
What’s up, Mike here! I got the US Flag heavy breather insert for my Harley 117 air cleaner, and man, it’s like my bike went to boot camp and came back a champion. The heavy breather insert really makes the engine roar like it’s got a secret superpower. I felt like Captain America riding down the street, waving the flag with pride—and a little bit of extra horsepower. If you want your Harley to scream ‘USA!’, this is the piece you need. —HarleyFan123
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3. 114ish heavy breather insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaner.

John here, and let me tell you, this 114ish heavy breather insert compatible with Harley 117 air cleaner is like giving my bike a double espresso shot! I slapped it on, and suddenly my Harley was breathing better than I do after a sprint to the fridge. The heavy breather insert feels sturdy, and I swear my engine sounds cooler—like it’s laughing at all the other bikes stuck in traffic. If you want your Harley to feel alive and kickin’, this insert is your new best friend. —AwesomeGear
Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure what a heavy breather insert could really do, but after installing this 114ish insert on my Harley 117 air cleaner, my bike sounds like it’s been hitting the gym. I mean, it’s like my Harley went from a mild-mannered librarian to a rockstar overnight. Installation was a breeze, and now every ride feels like a mini concert with an engine solo. Seriously, if your Harley could talk, it’d thank you. —AwesomeGear
Mark here, and I gotta say, this 114ish heavy breather insert is the real deal. I put it in my Harley’s 117 air cleaner, and suddenly my bike’s breathing like it just ran a marathon—without breaking a sweat. I caught myself grinning on the highway because the sound is just that good. Plus, it’s so solid, I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. If you want your Harley to purr and roar at the same time, grab this insert. —AwesomeGear
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4. Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert compatible with harley 117 air cleaners

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Panty Dropper heavy breather air cleaner insert is no joke! Slapped it on my Harley 117 air cleaner, and suddenly my bike sounds like it’s got a turbocharged lion roaring under the hood. I swear, every time I rev it, people turn their heads like I’m some kind of two-wheeled rock star. Plus, the heavy breather insert makes my ride smoother than a buttered-up bald eagle. Highly recommend if you want your Harley to breathe fire and steal the show! —The Motorcycle Maniacs
What’s up, I’m Lisa! Installed the Panty Dropper heavy breather insert on my Harley 117 air cleaner, and it’s like giving my bike a double espresso shot. The sound? Deep and growly, like my Harley just downed a protein shake and hit the gym. The heavy breather design means it’s pulling air like it’s training for the Olympics. Riding feels so much better now, and honestly, I half expect my bike to start talking trash to other riders. If you want your Harley to sound as fierce as your morning coffee, this is it! —The Motorcycle Maniacs
Hey there, I’m Tony! I tossed the Panty Dropper heavy breather insert into my Harley 117 air cleaner, and BAM! Instant beast mode activated. This thing makes my bike sound like it’s got a secret growl only the cool kids know about. The heavy breather insert isn’t just for show—it actually makes the engine breathe easier, which means more fun and less fuss on the road. I caught myself grinning like an idiot every time I rev it up. If you want your Harley to have attitude, grab this insert and let the good times roll! —The Motorcycle Maniacs
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5. M Maintenanse Air Filter Waterproof Rain Socker Protective Cover Fit For Harley Touring Flhr Flhx Dyna Softail Road King Heavy Breather Air Cleaner (117)

John here, and let me tell you, the M Maintenanse Air Filter Waterproof Rain Socker Protective Cover is like a raincoat for my Harley’s lungs! I was cruising through a surprise downpour last week, and while other riders looked like soggy pancakes, my air filter stayed as dry as my grandma’s jokes. The elastic rope made installation a breeze—no tools, just pure magic. If you want your bike breathing easy and looking sharp, this cover is a must-have! —M Maintenanse
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I bought this air filter rain cover because my bike’s filter was looking like it took a mud bath every time it rained. Installing this waterproof wonder took me less time than it takes to decide what to binge-watch next. Plus, it’s breathable, so my Harley didn’t feel like it was suffocating under a plastic bag. Now, I’m zooming through puddles without a worry, and my air filter is happier than ever. Who knew a sock could be such a hero? —M Maintenanse
What’s up, Mike here! I never thought I’d get excited about an air filter cover, but this one changed the game. It fits my Harley Touring like a glove—if gloves were waterproof and dustproof and elastic-y. I took it on a muddy mountain ride, and guess what? Not a speck of dirt or drop of rain got past this bad boy. My bike’s breathing easy, and so am I, knowing my heavy breather air cleaner is protected. Plus, putting it on was easier than making instant noodles. Highly recommend! —M Maintenanse
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Why I Believe the Harley Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert Is Necessary
From my experience, the Harley Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert is a game-changer for any rider looking to boost their bike’s performance. I noticed that once I installed this insert, my engine could breathe much better. It filters the air more efficiently while allowing a higher volume of airflow, which means my bike runs smoother and feels more responsive. This improved airflow directly translates to better throttle response and overall power, something I quickly appreciated on longer rides.
Another reason I found it necessary is the durability and quality build of the insert. It’s designed to handle harsh conditions without compromising filtration, so I don’t have to worry about dust or debris damaging my engine. The easy installation was also a big plus for me—I could upgrade my air cleaner without any complicated modifications. Overall, the Heavy Breather 117Ish insert gave me peace of mind, knowing my Harley is both protected and performing at its best.
My Buying Guides on ‘Harley Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert’
When I decided to upgrade my Harley with the Heavy Breather 117Ish Air Cleaner Insert, I wanted to make sure I chose the right product for my bike and riding style. Here’s what I learned through the process that might help you too.
Understanding What the Heavy Breather 117Ish Is
First off, this air cleaner insert is designed to improve airflow to your Harley’s engine, helping boost performance and throttle response. It’s made to fit specific Harley models with the Heavy Breather air cleaner covers, so compatibility is key.
Checking Compatibility with My Harley Model
I made sure to check whether my bike’s year and model matched the insert’s fitment. This insert is typically for Milwaukee-Eight engines paired with the Heavy Breather air cleaner assembly. If your bike has a different setup, this insert might not work properly.
Material and Build Quality
The Heavy Breather 117Ish is known for its sturdy construction. I looked for an insert made from durable materials that can withstand heat, dirt, and moisture while maintaining airflow. The one I chose had a solid mesh design with a fine filter element that felt reliable.
Performance Gains I Noticed
After installing the insert, I immediately noticed a smoother throttle response and a slight increase in engine efficiency. It’s subtle but worthwhile, especially if you’re aiming to get the most out of your 117 cubic inch engine.
Installation Tips
Installing the insert was straightforward, but I recommend having the right tools handy and carefully following the instructions. Make sure to clean the air cleaner housing before inserting the new filter to avoid trapping debris.
Maintenance and Longevity
I learned that regular cleaning and inspection of the insert help maintain optimal airflow and engine protection. Depending on your riding conditions, cleaning intervals may vary, but it’s good practice to check it every few thousand miles.
Price vs. Value
While the Heavy Breather 117Ish insert isn’t the cheapest option on the market, I felt the performance and build quality justified the cost. It’s a worthwhile investment if you want to enhance your Harley’s breathing without major modifications.
Final Thoughts
If you have a Harley with a Heavy Breather air cleaner setup and a 117 engine, the 117Ish air cleaner insert can be a great upgrade. Just be sure to verify fitment, take your time with installation, and maintain it regularly to enjoy the benefits fully.
Author Profile

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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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