more power

[sidelevers]

Does anyone have any serviceable engine parts to help in my search for a few more horses?
I am running a bog standard condor 350 and would like to change the cam and piston to scrambler spec, I understand that with a carb change I should be nearer 30bhp than the (feels like) 5 I have.
There is mulla in the coola.
Tony Montana.

[Nick]

My bone stock '67 350 Sebring became much more powerful and stronger running when I switched the stock carb for a 28mm Mikuni and lengthened the intake manifold by about two inches. The improvement was very marked! Lengthening the intake tract helps boost mid-range power; the larger carb boosts top end. I left the intake port stock, however the manifold tapers down from 28mm to the intake port diameter. I suppose this resulted in a simplified version of the so-called high-velocity intake port.

If your bike has the same cam as the Sebring, you might want to try a carb switch first. Also, the '67 Sebring's stock muffler is rather free-flowing and allows the engine to breathe reasonably well. If your muffler is too restrictive, that could also be part of the problem.

And of course, make sure the ignition timing and valve settings are correct. A proper valve job can also make a big difference.
Perhaps compare the compression ratio with the older Sebring as well. If your bike is lower, perhaps use a slightly thinner shim under the cylinder (after checking clearances, etc.).

Too, the older narrow case models are very lightweight and, thanks to their smaller, thinner tires and smaller drive chain, have very low rolling resistance, so even a modest increase in power can make a big difference in performance.

Nothing wrong with throwing a lot of expensive parts at a bike, but that doesn't always result in the desired performance....

[sidelevers]

Nice one Nick, Ill try the carb swap first.