Timing gear conversion for 750 small-block?

[omega1987]

Hello all,

I've been reading some interesting stuff about big-block timing gear conversions but I've been unable to find any topics discussing the same conversion for small-blocks.

Is that because the small-block simply can't accommodate timing gears or is there some other reason why this isn't a done mod?

P.S. I'm not currently looking at doing this mod, just curious 

[Tom]

I personally haven't seen a need for it on a street v750.

[Chuck in Indiana]

As far as I know, it hasn't been done. The timing chain and tensioner on the small block is really robust. (Ahem) A better system than on the big blocks, IMHO. On the older ones, timing is taken directly off the end of the cam, to boot. I wouldn't think there would be much of anything to gain by doing it.

[omega1987]

Ok that's interesting, so the big-block timing chain only exists because the timing chain/tensioner is of a weaker design.

I must admit that there's a certain appeal for having a chainless motorcycle even if the timing chain is long lived and a shaft driven Guzzi would be an obvious choice.