I have an opportunity to purchase brand new still in the box SE255 cams for $150. I never had the desire to change the cams but the price is what's sparked my interest.
My concern/question is, Will the 255 be fine for 2-up cruising rides 200 miles thru the New England roads? I ride conservatively. I enjoy leisurely rides not racing around.

 

The 255s are definetly made for low rpm/torque, should be good for 2 up. You will want a good Stage 1 set up with them.

 

If you don't have the desire to change them, maybe considering buying them and turning a profit.

 

From what I know about 255 cams and the way you describe your riding style I think you'd be happy with them.
Keep in mind you need some kind of a tuner to make the bike run properly after you install the cams, if you don't have that already.

 

I have AC and exhaust with Xied's. I know I need a tuner. Still on the fence about doing it.

 

The 255 peters out at 4000 rpm's. Depends on your riding style.

 

FWIW I paid $225 for my Andrews 48H cams new from an online retailer. .if someone offered me the 255 for $150 or the 48h for $75 more. .I wouldn't hesitate to get the 48H. They're almost identical with the 48H running longer into the RPM due to the SE being EPA regulated.

There's a lot of costs associated with a cam change. If doing yourself parts are anywhere from $3-500 assuming you have the bearing puller and installer tool which is another $100. Tuner is going to be another $400 or so. .and a tune another $3-500.

 

The 255 cam is a good torquey cam. It produces more torque off idle than any of the alternatives. It does taper off at about 4k rpm but still makes more torque and power than stock all the way to redline. For two-up riding, it's a very good choice. If you want to hot rod, there are many better cams that produce more HP at higher RPM, but they compromise some of the grunt off idle.

The real decision is already posted. The cams are just part of the cost. The savings, as a percentage of total cost, should be considered.

 

I did my own cams and it was relatively easy, but there were lots of other costs to that added up. Things like a tuner, push rods (usually), and the install kit, service manual, etc...

Just as a reference point, I went with set of new SE204's that I found on eBay for $75.

Like others have said, it sounds like a reasonable match for your riding style, but only you can decide if the total cost is worth it.

 

255's were intended for heavy bikes, 2 up will be good.