Huntmaster -V- VB

[Simon.Gardiner]

A10 engine won't fit directly - crankcases are different, as are all the external parts in one way or another. A10 top end will fit on FH bottom end but later 'big fin' A10 barrels/heads have a diferent exhaust port angle (earliy A10 barrels/heads are similer to FH but I'm not sure about the exhausts). Anyway decent A10 stuff isn't cheap and going back to a twin will need a lot of different bits and pieces (engine plates, studs/spacers, mag + dynamo, chaincase inner etc).

I'd either go mad and stick a Triumph engine in it or convert to a 350......

(My current 500 single started as a 650, after blowing the original engine up I converted it to a single and got rid of absolutely all traces of the twin in disgust. I've lately been thinking about returning it to original spec and I'm regretting being quite so ruthless!)

[Danny.Lee]

Simon

thanks for the warning on A10 differences, I thought it was just cosmetic. I will leave that idea alone I think.

As to conversion to a 350, is there any real benefit? isnt it just a case of slow bike or even slower bike?

I am now thinking it would be easier to go with what I have got and re-build the VB engine, that also leaves me with a spare head, barrell and piston to maybe trade for the bits I dont have.

Thanks everyone for the comment, it all helps to clear your own thoughts

Danny

[john.nash]

Simon
As to conversion to a 350, is there any real benefit? isnt it just a case of slow bike or even slower bike?

As the previous owner of a VB and the present owner of a 350; that is not true.
The 350 is slightly quicker on the acceleration and they are about the same top end wise. The VB does better on hills.
I used to race my mate (me on the VB and him on a 350 BSA) and he could get ahead pulling away. Out of interest, my ariel 350 is better than his BSA 350 (but that could easily be down to me on new rings and resurfaced cam etc)

I also own a 500 single.
The 500's are harsher, vibrate more, less flexible in starting than a 350cc.
They are however quicker away, have around 10mph more usable cruise (and flat out) and, most importantly, are way better up hills.

If you are pottering around A and B roads at 50mph, then a 350 or VB is fine

[Keith.owen]

Hi,
A 350 is not bad (particulalrly the rigid variety which is lighter) and provided you don't want to race they are fun. I used to get 70+ MPH out of mine regularly which was fun - my feet would go numb and I'd have to keep catching the petrol cap and screwing it back down again. Those were the days!

Keith

[Danny.Lee]

So a 350 conversion looks a possibility. I will see what parts are the most easily accessible and then decide.

[Simon.Gardiner]

.
The 500's are harsher, vibrate more...

Nothing like as vibratey as a 650 though