Engine swap for more hp? | Yamaha SR500 Forum

fonzie
New Member

Posts: 2

Engine swap for more hp? Dec 30, 2005 14:23:39 GMT -5

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Post by fonzie on Dec 30, 2005 14:23:39 GMT -5

Hey everyone -

I have an '81 sr500 and I'm looking to get as much HP as possible. I have the 36mm mikuni carb, supertrapp & k&n air filter setup, but it's still not rockin' me.

I'm not much of a mechanic, but I was wondering if it was possible to take the engine from a xs650 and switch it with mine (and get new pipes, carbs,etc)? Have any of you guys ever done this, or am I a donkey?

And what about those "big bore" kits - are those a waste of money? I'd love any feeback you guys can give me.

thanks ;D

miker
Senior Member

1978 SR500E

Posts: 341

Engine swap for more hp? Dec 31, 2005 10:59:55 GMT -5

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Post by miker on Dec 31, 2005 10:59:55 GMT -5

I have an SR500 and an XS650, and they don't feel much different in oomph - the SR could even be a little better, probably due to weight. Engine swaps are a pain... why don't you just buy an XS, go big bore, and do extensive lightening? I know folks who have gotten them down near stock SR weight, if you mess with the frame etc. And parts are a lot easier to find for an XS.

An amusing comment I once read: "You can spend a zillion bucks and do everything possible to your classic, and any kid on a clapped out R6 can still eat yer lunch." Think about it!

miker

fonzie
New Member

Posts: 2

Engine swap for more hp? Jan 2, 2006 14:57:53 GMT -5

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Post by fonzie on Jan 2, 2006 14:57:53 GMT -5

Hey Miker - thanks for the info! I think I'm gonna just keep my bike as is....If I want a faster bike, I'll just buy a new one and save myself the headache.

You're absolutely right about that quote about the r6 - I rode my friend's Suzuki sv650 and I tell you my sr500 cafe racer has felt like a bicycle ever since. But there's definitely something special about it - I have no intentions of selling it anytime soon!