Bako:

What you said was "Fuel" filter. I read it as "Air" filter. My fault, not yours.

But yes, if the air filter is about 3/4" (19 mm) from the carb spray bar it stays drier not getting as much fuel spray, and stays clean longer.

The short stack and the air filoter combined seem to eliminate all spray out the intake.

A fuel filter is also a good idea.

Bill.