ECU mapping has come a long way. The way we create flash files is on the dyno for the specific mods of the bike. So we make a flash for the zx-14r for exhaust x, y but z hasn't been on the dyno yet so we wait, also with mod e, f and g on and off, etc etc. So we've created hundreds of flash files for various bikes depending on the mods to the bike. Now, we've confirmed it numerous times via 3rd parties but, flashing the ecu with the fueling for example holds true no matter where it goes to within 2%. Anytime it's ever been off, is because there's been something wrong with the bike in question and not the flash. We fully build each flash, and fine tune everything. We've put in thousands of passes on the dyno for the ZX-14R.
Unfortunately the flash game can be dirty, we've found in other companies flashes, our own files. With thousands of individual tuning cells in the fueling and ignition mapping for example, it's impossible to get the exact same numbers in every cell. Yet, low and behold, we've found our maps being sold by other companies as their own. It can be a frustrating business.
Anyway, for the most part yes, an ecu flash takes place of any piggy back devices. However, a PC5 can still be very useful in instances where we haven't created a flash for the specific mods done to a bike. For example, if you have an exhaust we haven't seen on the dyno to create a flash file for, we can usually use a flash for a different exhaust of same design and be pretty close, but some people do custom mods and we can't account for the changes, so a PC5 on top of the flash for the fine trimmings, can be beneficial. Or, we have a lot of guys who do custom airbox mods, exhaust mods etc that just need that little tiny bit of extra tweaking that we can't do without seeing it on our dyno.
We've tune many ZX14Rs, high horsepower drag bikes that do 8's regularly and road race track bikes, cross country tourers etc. It's a versatile bike that we've had a lot of experience with.
Now I'm not here saying who is best, worst, good, bad or ugly. Just talk to the companies you're going with before hand and I do recommend if you're ever questioning it, go get a baseline dyno done locally before and after to prove the change. And whether or not you decide to purchase an ecu flash from me, feel free to email, call, facebook message etc to discuss your bike and ask any questions you have, we're here to help! (although we aren't very active on the forums, i apologize but we only have so much time in the day)
Nels Byersdorf
2 Wheel DynoWorks
www.2wheeldynoworks.com
2wheeldynoworks@gmail.com
425-269-5332