I run a velocity stack and a 2 stage Uni Filter with outerwears wrap directly off the carb , works great and Its the best protection you can have for your motor . I blast through puddles no worries because I also make sure the filter element is properly oiled .
I also made a support for the filter/velocity stack using a piece of all thread and covered it with clear pvc tubing so the weight of the filter and velocity stack doesn't pull the carb down and cause a air leak at the intake boot . I even slide through water at the ocean 6 inches deep sometimes and still no issues , yeah don't get the bike so deep it reaches the intake cause then your asking for a rebuild . I ride the dunes , so sand is always a problem , it gets everywhere , and saltwater is the worst for a bike , gotta maintain it all the time !!!