Re: GM going down, no LBC

A pushrod engine can be made to run as effectively as an overhead cam engine 
- however it will cost a lot more money for the parts.  Minute flexion of the 
rods at higher RPM plus a few other things going on affect the valve train, 
etc etc etc.  Can't rev em.  What is needed for ultimate performance is 
movement 
of mass.  

A New Harley motor puts out 67 HP factory stock using 1450 CC's.  That is 
tantamount to a 1930's automobile with a big flathead that puts out 65 HP.  
Some 
might  consider this a poor use of displacement, some might not.  A lot could 
be done with them 1450 CC's in a high performance overhead cam variable valve, 
etc etc etc engine.  Think Honda S2000 performance.  But Harley must walk in 
the past as well as the present where "function follows form" - ie, that form 
being "nostalgia".  The one upside for some might be low rpm cruising for long 
distances which may affect a MC rider who sits over the engine more than 
someone more insulated in a car.  

I agree why reinvent the wheel?  However, consider that some wheels are made 
of splintered wood and some of lightweight new age materials.  

To note - Harley also began to produce a "form follows function" MC when it 
introduced the V-Rod nearly 4 years ago.  The V-Rod is powered by a 1130 CC 
double overhead cam engine designed in Stuttgart by Porsche.  Harley had the 
bucks to take their case to Porsche.  How do you beat Honda?  Go to Suttgart 
and 
get it done.  It puts out over 130 hp stock and turns quarter mile times faster 
than the heavier Honda VTX which is an 1800CC bike.   The motor company 
realizes that their current demographic is getting older (like me at 54) and as 
such it is importante for them to have a bike like this for the next 
generation.  


I rented a V-Rod on vacation last year in San Diego and the performance was 
simply staggering - 0 to 60 at 3.4 seconds.  I found a place where I could wind 
it out a bit and I got to 100 mph so fast I felt like I was strapped to the 
back of a rocket. The seat is designed like a drag seat - it holds you into the 
MC under high acceleration.  Sitting on that thing was like riding the 
Superman Ride at 6 Flags, only faster!  

Kirk