A few days ago, I asked Al (proprietor of AmericanSportBike.com) some questions about his scoop, and here are his answers:
1. Would your 9160 scoop REALLY fit my 08 Uly? I understand there was a change in the stock headers in 08 that made some other scoops unsuitable.
Not true, the headers in 08 have the same part number as previous years for all but the European models. No fitment issues.
2. Is the carbon version UV-protected against discoloration?
It won't discolor, but ALL CF is somewhat UV sensitive. We do Not clear coat our CF, that has a bunch of other issues with it. We recommend keeping it well waxed and use protect-all between waxings for UV protection.
3. What is the color and finish of the 9160F fiberglass version? Do you have a photo of a fiberglass part on your web site, as an example?
4. Can the fiberglass version be used as-is, or does it require paint or other protection? If I have to paint it, what kind of paint would you recommend?
It is shiny black as new, most folks paint it with BBQ type paint to give it a similar appearance to the IM part on the other side.
5. Is the carbon scoop more durable than the fiberglass one, since it's right next to the hot header?
No, similar durability.
6. How is the scoop mounted exactly? Are any frame or body modifications required? Is there any risk of voiding any warranties with this mod?
Just like the stock scoop, three screws. No mods. I can't imagine it would void a warranty.
7. What maintenance is required for the carbon scoop finish? Would the fiberglass one need less maintenance (if left unpainted)?
I doubt you'd leave it unpainted. The CF one should be kept waxed.
8. My bike has all stock body parts, with blue flyscreen and airbox cover. In your opinion, would the carbon scoop look nice, or would I be better off getting the fiberglass one and using it as-is or painting it?
If I had no other CF, I'd go fiberglass.
9. Should I prep the scoop with fine sandpaper so the BBQ paint sticks better, with less chance of chipping/flaking?
I would break the mold gloss with a quick 400 grit wet sand, then hit it with a primer coat followed by the BBQ paint.