My Honda S2000 has a V-TEC engine(variable cam/valve timing) which is becoming more common on other manufacturer's engines as well so it's nothing new. The engine in this application is further unique in that the engine block is very light using F1 technology that Honda utilizes called FRM(Fiber Re-enforced Metal) which allows closer proximity between the cylinders which allows for less metal to build the block=less weight and stronger block. I was thinking that at the least, Honda would apply the FRM technology to motorcycle engine cases to reduce weight and add rigidity. But, why not the variable valve timing design? Perhaps it's because of that sudden burst of power when the more aggressive profile takes over....say in a turn? While the V-Tec engagement in my S is pretty intense, perhaps the mortorcycle makers could design one that would be less abrupt and maybe only active if the bike is vertical, or near vertical, and under full throttle for safety. I find it hard to believe that Honda hasn't looked at it. It sure would come in handy when trying to make a quick pass...uphill on the Wee when loaded two-up with luggage. Hmmm...perhaps a push-button switch on the left grip area that could only activate the system under certain coniditions? I DO understand about the R&D $$$ that would be required for such a design, but I find it interesting to consider the possibilities.

__________________
'92 Honda Z50R
'94 Kawasaki KLX250 modded to 340cc's
'00 Yamaha YZ426F
'94 Yamaha 125 scooter
'05 Vespa E4 scooter
'68 Vespa VBB scooter (restored)
'06 Wee
'03 Honda S2000 roadster

I'm pretty sure that some of the VFR Interceptors (800cc) that Honda made had Vtec.

__________________
---
His -'07 Wee-Strom - '07 Kawi KLX250s
Her's -'13 Genuine Buddy 170i Pamploma

My friends with VFR's seem to not like the V-Tech system much. Some are OK with it. But Honda is always on the frontline of technology. Sometimes thier products aren't the most exciting, but always work like they should (not that they have never had problems). I don't have a Honda, but would sure like to try one of thier V-Tech bikes.

__________________
2009 DL650

My VFR ('01) had VTEC, and it worked exactly as you described. A lot of people hated it, but I thought it was an absolute blast. Whack the throttle and the revs take off, then just when you think it's peaking, WHAM, I'd get a huge power hit and the front wheel would come up. It reminded me of the 4-barrel carbs they used to put on muscle cars.

As for non-metal engines, the last version of the Britten super-bike had carbon-fiber cases. He was working on making more and more of the engine composites. I doubt production bike costs will permit that technology for a long time; aluminium is too cheap and easy to work with.

__________________
New Crispy Snack Cracker To Ease Crushing Pain Of Modern Life

Variable valve timing is mainly a help for fuel economy at lower power. That sells cars, but isn't a big selling item on motorcycles while adding to the manufacturing cost.

__________________
Rooster today
Feather duster tomorrow

The Concours 14 has it. There are many lovers of that fine machine...

__________________
Rob

Ride every day, it's good for you.
07 650A | C10 | KLR250

Yup!

__________________


'08 Vee: Suzy luggage, Crash bars, Rad Guard & front mudguard extension, Zumo 550, Oxford Hot grips, Stebel, PC-8, 12v acc, Scott oiler & lube-tube, Remus Revolution Cans, Bark Busters, Phillips Extreme vision +100 bulbs.

'08 Concours 14: Rad guard, Stebel, Oxford Hot grips, Projekt D Screen, Hugger, GPS mount, helmet locks & front guard extension, Zumo 550, Stebel, Phil's rack & Givi V46, Sheepskin seat cover, Phillips Extreme vision +100 bulbs.

My Website
My Blog

Maybe its the cave man in me but I would rather go back to carbs on bikes. Maybe a 1 bit cpu for the spark plugs...but points would be ok too. No fuel pump, just mount the tank higher than the carbs and she should be just fine. Kick starter for sure, and if the whole electrical system shits it would still run for quite some time.

I would leave my GPS at home and just use maps as I reflect about the good old days.

Bet I would get home every friggin time.

I bet you really do not care about my feelings on more electrical crap for bikes.

__________________
________________________________
2007 Blue SuperVee 1000
2002 White HD Road King Police
2000 Red Honda XR 400r
2003 Green Honda Rincon 650 ATV

If it is not broken, it can still be fixed

Part of the reason I have so much love for my air-cooled, carbureted Triumph. Maybe not quite as rustic as you describe, but it does the trick. Sometimes simplicity is bliss.

__________________
"Blindness is contagious, see for yourself." - SthrnRomr 2012

Thanks for info. I had no idea that ANY motorcycle had a V-TEC system!! It's always great for me to learn something.

__________________
'92 Honda Z50R
'94 Kawasaki KLX250 modded to 340cc's
'00 Yamaha YZ426F
'94 Yamaha 125 scooter
'05 Vespa E4 scooter
'68 Vespa VBB scooter (restored)
'06 Wee
'03 Honda S2000 roadster