Problem:
It was desired to obtain increased output from a previously stock-equipped, four-stroke spark-ignition motorcycle engine. The motorcycle, a 1977 Suzuki GS550, was equipped with a transverse-mounted four-cylinder engine, 550 cubic centimeters in displacement, with engine redline at 9500 RPM. Each cylinder was fed by a single Mikuni side-draft carburetor.

1977 Suzuki GS550
In order to achieve increased performance, it was necessary to first analyze the characteristics of the engine in stock form. Specific targets for output were then assigned based on the driving habits of the operator. From this point, several options were considered for improvement. A method was selected based on design criteria and developed through both analytical and experimental means. Several possible design concepts were developed and evaluated according to their fulfillment of design criteria. From these, a single design was selected for further development. This final design was then developed in detail and analyzed to determine its probable effectiveness. Finally, values of the projected improvement over the stock system were generated. The design criteria used are shown below.
· The system should achieve a minimum 10% increase in
torque and power output at target engine speeds based
on stock performance and typical operating conditions. |
· The system, when installed, should fit on the existing
frame without interfering with the operator or other
vehicle systems. |
| · The system should be simple and durable in construction. |
· The system should require minimal modification of engine
fuel or other systems. |
· The system should make use of pulse-ram induction
tuning. |
Since the system would be produced for a custom installation, cost analysis and mass-production considerations were neglected. It was decided early in the design process that modifications to the valvetrain and exhaust system, although they might also improve performance, would be avoided. Increased output should be a result of intake modification alone. Pulse-ram induction tuning will be explained later in this work, as well as the reasons it was focused upon to improve the engine’s performance.