I’ve been looking into upgrading my Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88 engine and came across the 88ci big bore kit. I’m curious about several aspects of this modification and would love to hear from others who have experience with it.
Performance Improvements
I’ve read that moving from an 88ci to something like a 95ci or 98ci can lead to significant performance gains. But what kind of real-world improvements can I expect? Will I notice a big difference in torque and horsepower?
Components and Installation
What are the essential components of a big bore kit? I assume it goes beyond just the cylinders and pistons. Also, how complex is the installation? Is it something a moderately skilled DIYer can tackle, or would it be best to hand it off to a professional?
Reliability and Longevity
One concern I have is whether a big bore kit affects the reliability of the engine. Am I risking a shorter lifespan for my bike with this modification? How have others experienced the durability of their engines after upgrading?
Overall Experience
For those who’ve done the upgrade, do you believe it was worth it? What do you wish you had known before taking the plunge? If you had any issues afterward, I’d love to hear about those as well.
Thanks in advance for any advice or insights you can share. I really want to enhance my riding experience without compromising the reliability of my bike.
I’ve been looking into the 88ci Big Bore Kit too! From what I’ve read, it’s a great way to boost horsepower and torque significantly. Many riders report at least a 20% increase in performance, which is huge for riding experience.
I installed the kit on my bike last summer, and wow, what a difference! The overall riding experience improved so much; it feels peppy and lively now. Totally worth it for me.
Good question, yfoster. While it can get a bit warmer, proper tuning helps manage heat quite well. Just make sure to monitor your temps after the install.
I think the decision really comes down to your riding style. If you love performance and enjoy the thrill, then it’s probably worth it. Just be ready for that increased maintenance!
I’ve installed the 88ci Big Bore Kit myself. It’s a big job, but with the right tools, you can do it! Make sure you have a torque wrench and all the gaskets ready before you start. You’ll definitely need patience too!
Thanks for sharing your experience, rgibson! What specific challenges did you face during the installation? I’m curious about common pitfalls to avoid.
One common challenge is getting the old cylinder off, especially if it’s rusted. A heat gun can help loosen it. Also, don’t forget to check for oil leaks afterward. That’s really important!