Why do SE255's get such a bad rep ?

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Nov 8, 2010 | 04:02 PM

Sublime1

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Cruiser

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 208

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From: McKinney, TX

Why do SE255's get such a bad rep ?

I am curious.

I see such conflicting information on these, and for the price (about $150 in most used circles.) they seem to be a decent stage1.5 Cam for a touring bike ?

I know the $360 Cams from Woods, and Andrews are much superior in the torque curve and in the "perceived" quality of the product, but in the end, if you put an SE Cam in your motor, you have a very good chance of getting it covered under warranty if anything ever goes wrong...

Also, later down the line when you do a big-bore upgrade, after your warranty is Kaput, you're likely going to match a Performance Cam to a set of Pistons and jugs anyway.

So, what say ya'll ? Why *not* SE255's as a first upgrade for a Tame Touring biker ? And I have to think that extra 5-10 lb/ft torque is really worth the $150 and an evening of your time. . .right ?

Nov 8, 2010 | 04:18 PM

nytryder

Grand HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2008

Posts: 4,012

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From: Central Fl

The 255's put the #'s closer to the left on the HP/TQ paper. Good for a heavy touring bike. ALL the above are good cams it, depends on the RPM you want max power and torque to come on. My max torque comes in at 2800 and is perfect for my needs. Just depends on what your needs are.

Nov 8, 2010 | 04:18 PM

Mike

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2009

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From: Centralia, Wa

I like them as a direct bolt in for a stock 96 engine in a touring bike. I think that is the best application for this particular cam.

Last edited by Mike; Nov 8, 2010 at 04:21 PM.

Nov 8, 2010 | 04:20 PM

apolo07

Intermediate

Joined: Aug 2009

Posts: 39

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From: Ft. Worth, Texas

Did not know the SE 255 had a bad rep. They work great for me, lots of low and mid range torg for sure.

Nov 8, 2010 | 04:30 PM

Smurdamat1

Cruiser

Joined: Oct 2010

Posts: 108

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From: Wilmington, NC

looking for more inforamtion regarding cam choice pro/cons. here is what I am considering for my 2011 SG 103. hi flow air cleaner, header pipe and pipes (most likely V&H dual touring ovals) but have been trying to figure out which cam. The SE 254, Se 259 or SE 255. I traded a 2007 RKCVO (86 hp 107 #tq) and loved the performace. Would like to do a little better and not sacrifice the touring aspect of the bike. I ride to work everyday and love to break out on the weekends. Love the stoplight to stoplight run. Which of these cams will give me the best of both worlds? Can anyone provide insight?

Nov 8, 2010 | 04:36 PM

kdfcogwheel

Tourer

Joined: Jan 2010

Posts: 253

Likes: 1

From: S E Michigan

As a cautionary note, when changing cams make sure ALL cam bearings are replaced to heavy duty ones. A friend had a 95 Big Bore with a Screamin Eagle cam put in. Due to the extra loads his inner case bearing seized cracking the case, scorching the piston skirts destroying the oil pump, etc. Suffice it to say his ESP plan according to the MoCo is not covered. These cams are for "race" purposes only. Protect yourself.

Nov 8, 2010 | 05:07 PM

KaponeWKYA

Tourer

Joined: Aug 2008

Posts: 474

Likes: 3

From: Los Angeles, CA

You know, I think Boogaloodude is right, the SE-255 is a great cam for a 96 inch motor after you factor in the cost effectiveness and it's performance. Since I have had them installed, I am very happy with the low-end power. Having said that, at this point, I want a little more, but I plan to go 103 with matching cams/heads/pistons. But, as far as a Stage 1 with a kick, the 255s are doing great! I may be a bit of a performance junkie, which is why I want to take them out. If I am being completely honest, my bike really performs well, just not as well as most of the guys I ride with (who are all really aggressive riders with motors to match).

My two cents for what it's worth...