Elevation change=jet change?

So a friend and I are planning a trip this summer to go from Edmonton, Alberta into the Rockies, through Jasper, then on to Vancouver Island. I was wondering if with the elevelation change if the jets on both bikes would have to be changed out. Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

I would think not - if they're CV carbs on both bikes, which are more tolerant of altitude change. Slide carbs possibly would, but depends on how long you'd be spending at altitude. Just do a plug chop from time to time.
If you were to move permanently to a city a mile high, probably.

 

What do you mean by plug chop? Sorry hahaha never heard the term before.

 

When you're at some height above say, 5000ft, stop and remove a plug to see what the colour of it is.
It would be a good idea to establish a baseline before you go (I presume you're not too far off sea level at the moment), see what colour they are now. A light biscuit brown would be good.
Your carbs will tend to richen as you go up the mountains - but not drastically. As I say, CV carbs are less affected by this, but they're not immune to it.
The rough rule-of-thumb is they'll get about 10% richer for every 5,000ft up. You might not even notice it though, just depends on how they're set for now. One thing that works in your favour is that most, if not all, Japanese carbed bikes were, and are, set a bit on the lean side anyway. What this means is that your light biscuit brown might change to a darker biscuit brown - that's still ok.
If you do a couple of plug chops to reassure yourself it's all still good, just carry on.

 

Oh ok cool. Not a bad idea at all! Thanks!

 

your baseline is the altitude you are at and will be riding in regularly
no need to change jets to go over the mountains

 

I think the jets you now have would be fine, your home is between Vancouver(sea level) and the mountain passes ( 5-6000ft?).
Nice trip wish I could come along!
Alan

 

You won't need a jet change for your trip. You may notice a little less pep at elevations above 6,000 feet or so, but not enough to be of concern. You will not be a hinderance to traffic.

 

Your bike (jetted for sea level) will run rich at higher altitudes. Take a free-flow air filter with you (UNI, K&N, etc.) and stick it in for the high-altitudes and then put the stock pleated paper filter back in when you come back down to earth.

 

Awesome! Thanks for the info Chacal!

 

I live in Prince George BC and took mine all the way down the Pacific Coast to San Diego, then up to Vegas and Reno before coming back. And she ran good. I think you'll be fine

Also, if you happen to cross the rocks near PG, give me a shout, I'll ride a bit with ya!

 

Awesome man will do! I think day one we are going as far as Jasper