Posted by Witch Doctor on May 27, 2000 at 00:31:42:
In Reply to: Raask pipe/carb spacer posted by George on May 26, 2000 at 15:20:11:
The only way to really tell if the mods you'll be making are worth the hassle is with a dynomometer. Not one of the fancy-shmancy motor jobs, but a rear wheel output model. The motor can make double the stock power, and not put any of it to the ground. Gearing, the jump between gear ratios, even too much/too little slack in the drivebelt all take their toll on power at the ground. Now, your fuel economy will probably suck rocks, but if I were you, I'd jet it up +2, enlarge the plug gap, run a hotter plug (spark size, not heat range, there is a big diference). Get a Split Fire plug. They are a bit high priced, but put the stocker to shame. Also, midrange power is not the easiest place in the world to make improvements. Cruiser motors were designed to loaf along at low RPMs, the bikes are really for showing off on Saturday night at the local hangout (where our Japanese bikes aren't welcomed. Go figure). If all else fails, convert it to a chain drive and start playing with the front to rear tooth ratio. It's not that hard to do, any machine shop can redrill a sprocket and make any needed spacers.
Lots of luck. Have fun. Don't get discouraged when performance gains don't pan out as advertised. Cruisers are for looking at, taking a leisurely ride, and having some fun, not street drag racing. 8-)
-WD