In 1st & 2nd gear they only open about 70% until into the engine gets into the higher rev ranges. Also, the butterfly opens at a predetermined "slow" rate no matter how hard or fast you yank the throttle. This lessens the forces on the clutch plates, gears, and rear tire, all of which reduces the chance of inadvertently inducing rear wheel spin, which is viewed as a safety problem. The Pedal Commander eliminates this conservative CYA safeguard entirely. The butterfly will open 100% and it will open as fast as you can yank the throttle to its stop, if that is what you want. Thus, contrary to popular belief, the Pedal Commander does increase torque, horsepower and response, but only in that 800-900 idle range to about 3,000 rpm, an rpm range wherein most dynos don't or can't measure, in part due to the low numbers. That is nonetheless why you get that sense of improved drivability & response (quickness). Also, regardless of stock, Stage 1 or Stage 2 flashes, the Pedal Commander further improves the very low-end performance of the engine. Just my two cents.