Motorcycle Repair: Change Pipes - Jetting the Carb, air fuel mixture, stock pipes

Question
I plan to replace the stock pipes on my '04 FXST and don't want to screw up something.  I can't seem to run down a good answer on whether or not to rejet the carb after changing pipes.  Some say always rejet, others say rejet only if performance is hindered, even if if might be running on the lean side.  Seems like eveyone has an opinion but I would appreciate an answer from an expert.  What do you say?  I think I can rejet it myself (looks pretty simple), anything specific I need to be extra careful about?  Thanks for your help!

Answer
Your bike came from the factory lean to pass the EPA. Now adding the pipes will make it even leaner. Here is what I usually suggest.
Replace the pipes. I would not go with straight pipes. They hurt your performance. They are designed for high RPMs and most people dont ride that way.
I would go with a high flow air filter kit. Helps the bike breath better.
Get a DYna-jet kit. You should be able to install it yourself. This kit will rejet the carb correctly and give you more throttle responce. Also it will help with the air/fuel mixture at idle.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike