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Just a thought -

Is it worth putting a 501 engine in a 500 Sport frame?

Yes - I have one - the engine was originally destined for my 3 1/2 - but the 500 engine needed work and that bike was in daily use - it was popped in there as a stop gap and has not come out!

If it's a later Excalibur 501, it will only fit a very early pre-kink 500 frame (with new engine plates) unless you change the clutch side cover (dumping the reliable electric start!).

The 501(507cc) is not much of an 'upgrade' on the 478cc engine, but does make a much better basis if you want to tune.

I am gradually rebuilding an early 500W in strada trim - a metallic maroon one with straight frame from 78. I have got its original engine, but I have a 507 engine from a camel sitting in the frame, same clutch case and electrics. I'm hoping this will be good: years ago I put a standard 478 in my 3 1/2 and was rather disappointed. This 507 engine has an L cam in it, and the barrels and heads look like 478 ones from the outside, before the extra finning and rubber blocks were introduced.

Blimey, I've started something here.

Thanks for the responses.

I find the 501 engine from the Excalibur so much better than the standard 500 Sport engine. It has pull in any gear from any revs and revs an extra 1,000 RPM at the top end. The top speed is higher and the fuel economy unaffected. It also has a better alternator.

Mike.

Looks like my engine will not fit.