250sx dual maps

[YamiRacer]

Had my 2012 250sx out at the track yesterday and decided for the first time since I bought it to unplug the little white connector that changes the mapping. To my surprise, the bike seemed to be noticeably faster. Accelerated quicker and had better throttle response. I thought plugged in was performance mode and unplugged was mellower. This is also what the manual says. Can someone shed some light on this? Oh and I am aware of the handlebar switch and will be picking one up in short order.