You are probably correct - but on this forum, most of the guys do not seem to realise the potential in the 850 Commando engine. The heavy crank is an advantage when you run high overall gearing with close ratios - not a problem. Getting jetting right with Amal carbs when you use petrol is extremely difficult - using methanol is actually a cheat - it hides up the tuning errors.
When I used to race regularly, it was in the 1970s with a 1950s 500cc short stroke Triton in Allpowers C Grade. Many of the other bikes were Z1 and H2 Kawasakis - I know how fast a 1970s superbike can be. My Seeley 850 is faster. My problem back then was I believed the bullshit. Rex Wolfenden's 1100cc CB750s are fast in a straight line - as were the Z1 Kawasakis. Years ago I lowered the gearing on the 500cc Triton, I was leading and two guys with Z1s got past me on the longest straight and I speared-off to miss them at the next corner. I did not lower the gearing again - too dangerous.
When I see guys talking about a power band from 4000 RPM, they have not got their bikes really going. My motor is never below 5,500 RPM or above 7,300 RPM in a race, even at the start. If the revs are kept at that level, you ride the torque curve.
You don't use your road bike in that way.
The gearbox is more important than the motor. My motor is not trick.
I think my wife believes if I race again and crash, she would be my carer. I can still drive my car, and the bike is easier. It is burned into my brain. Winton Raceway has gone stupid, but to do an onboard video, it would have to the there. I am not in a hurry to do it. The car guys have made it almost impossible to get onto the circuit. I could go to Broadford, but it would be dangerous.
Is your motorcycle faster than the one in the following link ? - mine IS !
Photography: Stephen Piper If any one person deserves credit for creating the ongoing historic racing success story that is Australia’s post-classic road ra ...
www.classicracer.com