It is mentioned in 'Tuning for Speed', most recent versions being by Phil Irving.
He specifically mentions and shows the vernier cam adjustment arrangements in the Norton International (ohc (cammy) 500cc single cylinder).
In that engine, THE INLET CAM TIMING can be advanced or retarded, to suit a straight pipe or muffler (or megaphone).
The inlet timing in those engines can make a considerable difference, where it is not recommended that the exhaust timing figure is altered at all.
In more recent proddy bike racing, it was found that some Z900 exponents were reboring the cylinders slightly offset to stock.
This had the effect of giving slightly advanced inlet timing, a few more ponies and thus a slight advantage.
Took very detailed scrutineering to pick that one up - some bikes obviously had an advantage, and they went looking for it...
Lotta cars and bikes these days have V V T badge on them = variable valve timing etc.
Quite complex these days, they have come leaps and bounds in this field.
Even to having power valves in the exhaust, that can open and close (to an extent), to boost power in some rpm ranges...
A review of the book mentioned above above.
http://www.amazon.com/Motorcycle-Tuning ... ewpoints=1