Yamaha Banshee + Kawasaki Ninja 250 = Rz350 clone?

I'm considering starting another project this winter, but I'd like to
run the concept past the list members for opinions, comments, and advice.

The goal is to build a twin cylinder two stroke road bike using the
yamaha Banshee ATV engine. The 350cc twin was derived from the RZ350,
but has no powervalves (they are available on the aftermarket, but are
not cheap). the bike of choice to receive the engine is currently an
early to mid 90's Kawasaki Ninja EX250. It is a small and lightweight
bike, is available at a reasonable price (they only cost ~$3000 new),
and handles well.

The engine will likely recieve some mild massaging to open up the
factory restrictions, and will make between 50 and 70hp. custom pipes
are mandatory.

In talking to some other enthusiasts, one suggested the EX250 is a bad
choice and would suffer from headshake problems. My '87 ex500 does
this under deceleration, but only if the bars are let go of for more
than 10 seconds or so. I suspect this is partially due to the 16"
front wheel, and partially due to Ohios poorly maintained roads. I
would use the Ninja 500 I already have, but I've never been
comfortable with the way it handles and brakes- it only has drum
brakes on the rear.

so the question is- Would reducing the mass of the engine cause
headshake problems, and if you think so, can you explain yourself?

The goal here is simple: I want a modern looking bike with the sound
and rush of a 2 stroke, but I dont want to spend more than a few
thousand dollars on the project total. The bike will be ridden around
town and on local country roads, for no more than a few hours at a
time, and always fueled from home. It will not be raced, or even
ridden at illegally high speeds for more than a few short stretches
(1/4 mile dragstrip).

Also, I can fabricate.

thanks for your thoughts,
-A.J.






 
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