Tech Tip - Choosing a Cam

Upgrading your Harley with a new cam is often referred to as a Stage 2 upgrade and is a step in the right direction to achieving greater performance.

There are a few basic questions you should ask yourself when selecting a camshaft for your Twin Cam engine.

1, What's the primary use of the motorcycle? Touring, Racing, etc...

2, What type of rider are you & what type of riding do you do? Relaxed, Aggressive, Urban or Back Roads...

3, Have you made any other engine modifications?

When building your engine it is important to understand that Camshafts, Cylinder Heads, & Stroke Length all determine where your maximum torque horsepower peaks will occur.

While hot cams and an open exhaust will move your peaks higher up in the RPM band, more conservative cams will produce more torque at a lower RPM.

Selecting a Camshaft by the numbers (intake closing degrees):

• < 30% = a low range torque cam (this cam will generate more pull off the line)
• 30% - 50% = A mid range torque cam (this cam will deliver a constant pull in regular riding conditions)
• > 50% = a high-speed power cam (this cam will pull hard when approaching maximum speeds)

Choosing the right cam for you bike isn't really as simple as analyzing the numbers. The Chrome Consultants here at City Limits are experts at building an engine to exceed your expectations and offer the ultimate riding experience.

Mike J.. & the Service Department at City Limits H-D