I'm gathering as much info as possible in prep to build a custom bike,
So far the research 'seems' to suggest a TwinCam 'A' motor to be the best all round motor for getting good power,

I realize I'll need some special mounting hardware to match up an 'A' motor in a Softail,
But there's a lot of personal likes, dislikes and opinions so here's the basics of the bike I'm planning to build,

Softail, 34 to 38 degree rake, no stretch or other frame mods, belt drive (primary and rear), 200 rear tire with 21" front tire to match equivalent ride height,
I'd like a slightly longer look but want to favor better handling,
I realize there's always trade-offs,

As for the motor, my basic question is; which motor combines the best all round performance, power, smoothness, longevity,
Again, many things are trade-offs so I'm looking for as much data to sift thru before I make my decision,

All ideas and info welcome,
thanx
Mark

 

If you got the bucks and want a cool look go with a knucklehead or shovelhead reproduction.

If you want a more contemporary look go the the 88A with the 98 ci kit.

 

What type of riding will you be doing. Is it going to be a bar hopper, or a daily rider? There is tons of great engine builgers out there. Personally if I was building a custom, I would not go with a HD motor. I would opt for a S&S or some other monster builder.

 

AVOID RevTech! You pay for garbage, you get garbage.

 

S&S has a 124" motor that fits into any frame a Twin Cam does. That is probably more than you need but there is a ton of options out there. They have many Twin Cam "style" engines that fit into almost any frame. Good luck.

 

If money not an issue go with a S&S motor.

 

I would go with a Knucklehead replica: old school look, new school technology.

 

how about a chevy 350 like a boss hoss?

 

I'm with Tripper on this one... Nothing looks better than one of those new-tech Knuckleheads... Also adds some element of difference from the OCC crap-fest.....