(CAT3 @ Sep. 25 2006,20:34) Quasar, let me run through the topics as you brought them up to the best of my ability.
Not sure in the bike world, but in the car world there is a pretty control over PCM access as well. I use software for tuning OBD-II PCM cars and although the software itself is very comprehensive for the end user, there is even more available to shops / tuners, as it should be. The end user, if interested can use the lite version which allows 10% deviation of parameters after tuned. 10% is A LOT when your talking AFR, spark etc. on a tuned setup. And yes there ways to get the full version of the software, although more restricted for now. I do agree it tends to hinder the sales and promotion of such products though.
My Busa is a foreign made product. I wont call Japan for help though
IIRC the product is actually only imported through a business in Michigan, which then distributes it to the 4-6 tuning shops authorized in its sales and installation. One is obviously in Colorado (I can pm you the name if interested, since not a sponsor I dont want to piss anyone off with it). I have talked to this shops owner and tuner quite extensively and feel pretty confident in his abilities. Also, from my experience, once tuned there shouldn't be much support needed, although there are always those one or two things that Murphy tends to bring with him.
More costly then PC? No. Definately not. From what I've found on the PC $270 average, add on ignition module $300, accelerator pump I believe is free upgrade? and not sure about the Rev Limiter. Either way, that alone is $570 no installed or tuned. I can get the RB2 installed and tuned for under $450 with lite software. Upgrade next year to the RB3 (allows multiple Maps to be stored in the box and accessed via a toggle switch on the fly adjustability) and cost will only be the difference (RB3 installed and tuned $530+/-). Wiring etc is included at those prices, obviously as I stated installed, but wanted to be clear. I see some ppl charge for PC Maps, others have helped ppl out with it, so pricing for any adjustments we'll call even. So far buckaroo's adding up on the PC side!
I have no idea on the dal issue you brought up. I went through the website, left a "inquiry" and was actually called back, albeit from a "proper" english wanker I had to listen carefully to converse with, but was called back. I've emailed my inquiry to PC (Dynojet) 4 times in the last 6months and have heard nothing, hate that, but I can only assume they are busy. And as said earlier, I was able to talk with the tuner I am taking my Busa too, who happens to use some of the same software for car tuning I use, so we were able to chat about parameters etc fluently.
Again, I believe there are 5 tuning shops in the US that are authorized RB shops. CO. I know for sure. then one in E. Coast, W. Coast, South (TX or something) and I think one more but I wasnt thinking to remember at the time. I was trying to get information to become a new dealership myself to not only help expand their business, but my future one.
Ill advised for some ppl I agree. Not everyone wants, nor needs a tuning package like this, or even the PC for that matter. My view is, if its just as capable or more than the current PC, and the price is better than I may be good to go, or may buy a dud, but I wont know unless I look outside the box.
My friend, here in AZ is running the RB3 on his GSXR1k, so I have been able to see the setup in person and talk with him about before and after difference. He's had nothing but good things to say about it. Unlike the occasional dumping on tune like the PC has (yes I know most are from improper loading of Maps = User error, but not all). The box can be swapped from one bike to another, with the only needing to get the correct harness, not sure if the PC can do this as well or not?
Once I actually get to the RB installed, I will post up available parameters, like accel pump function, idle circuit, fuel cells based off MAP vs. RPM etc.. BTW, the tuning shop has a load bearing version of the DJ to tune on, which is better than having to guess if the load seen on the rollers vs AFR reported on the wideband during tuning will be correct for real world load. I've either tuned cars on Mustang (or other eddie current loading dyno's) or on the street/closed track.
I appreciate the input, and am open minded on this, even though I seem to have my mind set. Thanks.
Charlie
