Removing the snorkels, increases the amount of air going into the carbs. This increase in air is also cooler because its not being sucked off the top of the engine. This increase is, in my opinion, only felt at the top end of the rev range. I did this on my race bike and immediately felt the difference on the top end while blasting down the 3000 ft front straight on my home track
For normal around town riding, removing the snorkels doesnt help the stock setting of the carbs. In order to get the benefits of increased air flow in the lower part of the powerband, I think you would have to put the bike on a dyno to get the proper air/fuel ratio. Later on, I put it on a dyno, because I also changed the air filter, taking out the paper one and replacing it with a foam one. I had to change the jets to get the air/fuel ratio correct. Ever since then, its run like a beast and I have been VERY HAPPY!!!!
