Air Cleaner Cover
What Is an Air Cleaner Cover?
An air cleaner cover is the outer shell that sits over your motorcycle's or engine's air filtration assembly, completing the carburetion system's air intake. Its job is twofold: it protects the air filter element from dust, debris, and road grime that can work their way into the intake tract and cause long-term engine wear, while also giving the intake system a clean, finished appearance. Air cleaner covers are a staple component in the carburetion lineup, sitting at the intersection of function and custom style.
Why Air Cleaner Covers Matter
On carbureted engines — from classic Harley-Davidson V-twins to small displacement utility and outdoor power equipment motors — the air cleaner assembly is the engine's first line of defense against airborne contaminants. A well-fitted cover keeps the filter sealed and secure, preventing premature wear and ensuring a consistent fuel-air mixture reaches the carburetor. Beyond protection, the cover is one of the most visible components on a motorcycle's engine, making it one of the easiest places to personalize your build without affecting mechanical function.
When shopping for an air cleaner cover, consider material construction (billet aluminum vs. stamped steel), finish options (chrome, black, contrast cut), compatibility with your specific air cleaner kit, and whether the cover is vehicle-specific or uses a universal mount. Many covers are sold separately from the air cleaner assembly itself, so confirming fitment with your existing kit is essential.
Top Air Cleaner Cover Brands
S&S Cycle is a leading brand in this category and a household name in American V-twin performance. S&S offers covers like their Stealth Teardrop and Slasher designs, engineered to pair with their performance air cleaner kits and deliver a purpose-built look that complements high-output engine builds.
Briggs & Stratton represents the small engine side of this category, supplying OEM-grade air cleaner covers for lawn, garden, and outdoor power equipment. Their covers are designed for direct-fit replacement on Briggs & Stratton engines, making them the go-to for dependable, factory-spec maintenance parts.
Performance Machine brings a premium CNC-machined approach to air cleaner covers. Performance Machine's Super Gas and Vision series feature interchangeable faceplates machined from billet aluminum, available in finishes like Chrome, Black Ops, and Contrast Cut, and are even designed to coordinate with PM wheel patterns for a fully matched custom look.
OTR Filters rounds out the functional side of the category with air cleaner covers focused on heavy-duty filtration applications, providing a straightforward, durable solution for working engines that need reliable intake protection.
Arlen Ness is one of the most prolific names in motorcycle customization and carries the largest product selection in this category. Known for their Big Sucker Stage 1 system and Velocity Series air cleaners, Arlen Ness covers are offered in chrome and black finishes across vehicle-specific fits for Harley-Davidson Touring, Softail, Sportster, and more — spanning decades of model years.