Special vs Standard Torque

[80xs11ms]

Sorry i could not locate a discussion I thought about torque differences. Someone said the standard has more torque because of different valves? Cam?

[TopCatGr58]

Hey there Teach,

Perhaps if you broadened your search parameters to ie.
"Standard Special cams valves" or such!!

The 78 came in STD format only, the 78-79 have the smaller valves, but slightly taller cams and were known to be the stronger engines, then in 80 Yamaha started detuning them for emissions, larger valves but lower lift, less timing advance, leaner jets, etc.!

From your username, looks like you have an 80 Midnight Special, a more rare breed, and plenty of torque to be had with any XS11. But, if they aren't tuned right, can definitely affect performance and not give you the YANK THE ARMS OUT OF THE SOCKETS FEEL you are looking for!
T.C.

[scalded dog]

Will the special, wheel/gears fit the standard? Thanks 'Dog

[Pat Kelly]

The 16" special wheel will fit on the standard, replacing the 17" wheel. You need to mix and match spacers to get everything to lign up right. The back of the bike will sit 1/2" lower.
Using my "seat-o-the-pants" meter I have found that my E is quicker and faster than my LG. Things that have probably influenced this is:
E 25,000 miles ... LG 65,000 miles
E Jardine 4 into 2 (spagetti pipes) ... LG 4 into 1
E Dyna coils ... LG stock coils
E engine has no issues ... LG had 1 lean cylinder and leaking exhaust valve.

My E engine is stock and seems to be working as it should.
The LG is currently getting a big bore kit and I found a few issues with it while it's apart. The only real difference between the 2 is the size of the rear wheel (special should be quicker with the smaller back wheel) and the amout of wear on the bikes when I got them. The LG had 3x as many miles and had been breathing unfiltered air since before I got it.
We'll see how things change when I get the LG back on the road.

[scalded dog]

Thanks Pat, recently bought an 81 midnight special, parts bike, was curious, because the tire is in good shape, and I might try to use it on my standard. Later 'Dog