A game changer. The FuelX Autotune Pro+
We’ve used the Fuel X Pro Plus from Race Dynamics on our long-term Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and Triumph Scrambler 400X. And it genuinely transformed both motorcycles – more so the H450, but the difference was telling on the 400X as well. Throttle response became linear, stalling disappeared, and the engine ran noticeably cooler. Once we added a free-flow air filter and a decat, and dialled the Fuel X up to Level 10, the gains in performance, rideability, and overall feel were hard to ignore. It didn’t just improve things; it completely changed how the bikes rode. They became quicker to respond, easier to rev, and an absolute hoot to ride
We’ve also used the simpler, cheaper Lite version of the Fuel X on the Hero Xpulse 200 4V. It helped—better cold starts, cleaner throttle response – but the jump wasn’t as pronounced.
So, when the Goan Classic rolled into our garage, we knew we had to put a Fuel X Pro Plus on it as well. The good folks at Race Dynamics were kind enough to send one over. And after using it for over a month – and many kilometres – here’s our take.
How Does the Fuel X Work?
The Fuel X works in tandem with the motorcycle’s fuel injection system. According to Race Dynamics, it adapts to various parameters, including engine condition, wear and tear, riding style, and performance upgrades such as freer-flowing air filters or exhausts, which the Goan runs, by the way. It also factors in environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and altitude to deliver a smoother, more potent ride.
In a closed-loop fuel injection system, the ECU determines the amount of fuel entering the combustion chamber based on oxygen levels detected by the O2 sensor. When the sensor detects higher oxygen levels in the exhaust manifold, the ECU responds by increasing fuel flow, resulting in a richer mixture. Conversely, lower oxygen levels trigger a leaner mixture.
The Fuel X module acts as an intermediary between the O2 sensor and the ECU. Selecting a richer setting on the Pro essentially tricks the ECU into believing that oxygen levels in the exhaust are higher, prompting it to inject more fuel. Meanwhile, choosing one of the two lean settings convinces the ECU that oxygen levels are lower, resulting in a leaner charge entering the combustion chamber.
The Bits and Bobs
What you get in the box is fairly straightforward: a main module that sits inside the right sidepod, a handlebar switch for on-the-fly adjustments to the air-fuel ratio, and a wiring harness to link the module, switch, and O2 sensor. You also get zip ties, stickers, and a quick-start guide
Installation isn’t plug-and-play easy. You’ll need proper wrenching skills to get it done cleanly, though. We entrusted our friendly neighbourhood wrenchman, Zubinn from The Shed fame, to handle it
The Ride Experience
A game changer. The Fuel X – along with the freer-flowing intake and exhaust – has transformed this susegad motorcycle into something with more pep, spirit, and enthusiasm, with the added benefit of smoothness
Throttle response is crisper. The engine revs with greater ease and intent. There’s a marked improvement in the mid-range and top end as well. Where the Goan Classic was happy sitting at 80kmph in 5th earlier, with some reluctance to climb further up the speedometer, it now comfortably hits 100kmph. And you don’t have to wring its neck to get there or keep it there; part-throttle is all it takes. The Goan has transformed, and all for the better, in our book.
The cherry on top? It runs smoother and cooler than before. It feels like a nicer, less restrictive motorcycle now. And if you’re wondering, we’re running it on the seventh step out of the 10 that the Fuel X Pro offers. One and two are leaner settings, three mimics stock, and from four onwards, the mixture progressively gets richer.
Much like the Himalayan 450, the Fuel X Pro is a must-have on the Goan as well. Yes, you risk voiding the warranty with it. But the 350 is a proven, bulletproof engine. So, if you’re going to take that risk, there’s no better platform to do it on.
