dyjaz - Sounds like you may have a pretty good reach on you as well. Might want to consider a different bar to streatch your arms out a bit more. After putting on my apes, I was happier than a pig in slop. I made that same backrest as a prototype, and can't bring myself to take it off. I have the same bike (2005 midnight silverado), and the only mods to the engine I've ever done was remove the AIS, and change the oil to synthetic. I switch every now and then between another set of pipes that I've got, but no changes to the carb. I don't ride every day, but when I do, I've never been let down. My riding season is just beginning here in Texas (I like cooler weather), and I have 21 days of vac. to burn before EOY, so I pan to spend a whole bunch of "alone time" with my special lady. That's right, she says everything I want to hear, puts a smile on my face, and washes away my stress.