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(478) 988-4313

If you need to know the best cam for a Harley, then you have come to the right place. DC V-Twin has been the place to shop for the best cam for a Harley. With a thousand of Harley cams available, from different manufacturers, making the correct choice can sometimes be over whelming. Our goal is to make your decision less complicated and put the right cam in your Harley that you will get the results you are after.

One of the first steps in picking the best cam for a Harley is to determine what you plan on doing with the bike. Will you be using the bike for typical street riding and touring for pleasure or will it be an all-out drag bike? The type of riding you do will also be important. Do you mostly ride two up, around town traffic, or do you make long highway trips. Finally, we would like to know your riding style. Is it aggressive or conservative?

Once we have this information then we can start helping you pick the best cam for a Harley. Of course now that we know your riding habits, we will need to know what bike you have and any engine modifications you may have already made. This is very critical, especially with the twin cam engine that has been around since 1999 with several different cubic inch versions over the years. DC V-Twin can also help you pick the best cam for a Harley EVO if you have an older style bike too.

Before we jump into picking the best cam for a Harley, we need to bring a couple habits of cam shafts to light as well. One being that a cam that is too big will result in less than favorable low RPM power. While these bigger cams are necessary in modified engine builds, a more conservative cam may feel stronger to you in your street riding style. It’s all about picking the best cam for a Harley.

Another thing to consider is a cam with longer intake duration will reduce static compression at low speed. This will reduce low RPM torque. Now, a longer duration cam combined with higher compression will add power to the middle and higher RPMs. This is what most riders are after, but the most important thing is to have the cam match the compression ratio and displacement of the engine, plus having the bike properly tuned.

DC V-Twin will pick the best cam for your Harley……………..Call 478-988-4313 we are here to help you with some of our favorites below.

RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS FOR S&S CAMS 1999 AND UP

HP103:For the rider who really wants the most top end horsepower. Easily make 100 horses from a stock engine with S&S intake and exhaust. Ideal for lighter bikes and racing applications where getting the most horsepower from a stock engine is imperative.

MR103: These bolt in-cams are for the rider who wants more of everything without giving up low end torque for high rpm horsepower, or vice versa. More power all across the wide power band, from idle to red line.

510:Designed as a bolt-in cam for 88, 95, and 96 CID engines with compression ratios below 9.7:1, it is primarily intended for use with stock, un-ported heads. 3000-5500 rpm. Bolt-in overall.

585: Designed for 88 to 95 CID engines with compression ratios from 9.7:1 to 10.5:1 and 100 to 124 CID engines from 9:1 to 10:1 compression. Provides massive horsepower and torque increases starting at 3000rpm and holds steady all the way to redline. 3500-6000 rpm for 88" - 103" engines and 2500-5500 for larger engines.

640: Used in S&S T124 engines, this cam makes horsepower! Intended for engines of 95 CID or more w/compression ratios between 10.5:1 and 11.5:1. 3000-6000 rpm.

Note:Stock valve springs in 1999-’04 big twin models can handle cams with valve lifts as high as .515”. Stock valve springs in 2005-up engines can accommodate valve lifts up to .590”.

EASY START CAMS FOR YOUR HARLEY

Start any engine regardless of displacement or compression ratio,with a stock starter. The most innovative S&S product since the electric compression release system, these cams will revolutionize the starting of late model big twins. These cams also install just as easily as non compression release versions and require no extra parts or machining! Available in both economical chain drive and rock-solid gear drive. Don't get caught "dead" without them!

HOW DO ESAY START CAMS WORK

The heart of our Easy Start cams is a centrifugally retracted, spring loaded, compression release lobe milled into the heel of each exhaust lobe. At cranking speeds, the lobe bumps the exhaust valve open slightly during the compression stroke, making the engine much easier to turn over. Once the engine fires and reaches 800 RPM, the lobe swings out of the tappet roller path, allowing the engine to run normally and with full compression.

  • Start any engine with a stock starter
  • Save your starter and battery!
  • Reliable – tested for 100,000 accumulative starts and over 150,000 road miles
    without breakage or compression release failure!
  • Automatic – no buttons to push

RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS FOR S&S CAMS 1984-1999 EVO

508: Bolt-in cam intended for stock engines with less than 10:1 compression ratio. Quiet valvetrain with excellent low/mid range torque for touring and 2 up riding.

510V: Bolt-in cam that works well with stock or ported heads. Improved ramp design results in low valve train noise. Meant for engines up to 96" and 10:1 compression ratio. 3000-5000 rpm.

520: A replacement part for S&S emissions certified engines, this is a short duration emissions cam with very little overlap to reduce emissions of unburned hydrocarbons. Requires high lift springs and normal clearance checks. 1000-4500 rpm (80"-96").

543: A replacement cam for newer S&S 4-1/8" bore V-series emissions certified engines for OE and custom applications. High lift, short duration and no overlap. Requires high lift springs and normal clearance checks. 1000-4000 rpm (111"-124").

546: A replacement cam for older S&S V-Series emissions certified engines, this is a short duration emissions cam with very little overlap to reduce emissions of unburned hydrocarbons. Requires high lift springs and normal clearance checks. 1000-4000 rpm (111"-124").

561: For 80"–96" engines at 9.5:1–10.5:1 compression ratio. Provides strong midrange power. 3000-5500 rpm.

585V: A versatile cam for 80" to 96" engines with 10:1-10.5:1 compression, and larger engines with 9.5:1-10:1 compression ratios. 3500-6000 rpm.

600: An exceptional cam in any large displacement engine with 9.5:1 to 10.5:1 compression. 3500-6000 rpm.

631: For high rpm applications, an excellent choice for all street and racing engines with 11:1 and higher compression ratios. Great performance cam, but expect more "wear and tear" on valve train components. Valve spring spacing and other normal clearancing checks required. 4500-6500 rpm

640: For large displacement motors with compression ratios of 10.5 - 11.5:1, or smaller motors with 11:1-12:1 compression ratio. Does not require as much compression as the 631 and provides a more linear power delivery. 3000-6000 rpm.

675: Designed for use with S&S special application cylinder heads, but can be used with other cylinder heads with appropriate valve springs. Intended for large displacement competition engines of 120 cubic inches or more, and 11:1 or greater compression. 4500-6500 rpm.

"Derek and I have been friends since the mid 90’s. He’s a great guy for technical information on motorcycle engines. He was also instrumental in helping me win my first NHRA Championship in 2007." Matt Smith – 2007 & 2013 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion

Posted By: Matt Smith

“I would like to thank Derek for all he has done and designed for me and my company. SO happy with all his work and insight when it comes to V-Twin motors! His knowledge and advice is second to none and will always be appreciated as we continue to work together and this collaboration will continue for years to come! UPI PERFORMANCE AND I THANK YOU!" Scott JoAnne Smalley – Owners of UPI Performance and the UPI Performance NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle

Posted By: Scott & JoAnne

"I have known Derek for 20 years during my racing career. When I switched to the S&S V-Twin, he was instrumental in helping me make the transition with great technical advice. He’s a knowledgeable friend I can trust in the business."Hector Arana - 2009 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion

Posted By: Hector Arana

I’ve been around fast motorcycles my whole life, but when I switched to the S&S Cycle Pro Stock V-Twin engine it took me to the next level. Nobody builds a better S&S V-Twin engine than Derek. He’s my go to guy for horsepower. Redell Harris - NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Rider

Posted By: Redell Harris

"Hi Folks My name is Olaf Menzi and I’m living in Switzerland. I’m riding a Pro Stock Buell in the European super twin top gas series. Last April, I visited the shop of DC V Twins and meet Derek Churchwell What I meet there, is a center of master engine building competence. Even after I arrived in the later afternoon, I helped Derek to bolt on a cylinder head of a Pro Mod Suzuki, and we were wrenching till 10.30 PM. So I could see how comprehensive his engine building skills are. It was a great experience and I could see that those guys know what they're doing. That is very helpful for the trust in your team because drag racing is also a team sport. I’m very thankful that I meet Derek face to face and it was quite an experience. So if you’re in the need to got more power in your v-twin!" DC V-Twin is the ultimate address !!! Regards from Switzerland, Olaf MOULDERS TOY RACING

Posted By: Olaf

"I first met Derek when I was running the All Harley Drag Racing Series. He knows Harley’s and was very helpful when I started running NHRA with the S&S powered v-twin engine." James Surber - NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Rider and owner of Kosman Motorcycle Chassis Co.

Posted By: James Surber

"Since it's been about a month now, I wanted to give you a report back on my 2000 Road King. You'll remember that I had a S&S VFI system installed to replace the OEM fuel injection and had a difficult time finding anyone with the knowledge and experience to properly tune my engine. While the bike was basically stock with an aftermarket exhaust and mild cams, I had just about given up and written off the VFI installation as a bad decision when I found you, and decided to give it one more try." "In the last few weeks, I've been able to put about 1,000 miles on the bike. It's been ridden city streets around Atlanta, interstates, and a few hundred miles in the north Georgia mountains. So, I've had a chance to ride the bike in all sorts of conditions ranging from stop & go traffic, sustained highway speeds, and higher revving runs around the hills up north." "Thus far, the engine has continued to run smoothly and freely across the rpm range. The torque it has at low RPM is far better than I had ever hoped, and the power builds smoothly as I run the rpm higher, all the way up to the redline. The engine cold starts much easier, and warm starts are no longer an issue. My gas mileage has also significantly improved from when I gave it to you." "I couldn't ask for a better result. I appreciate the work you did for me."Regards,Ted Gradolf Roswell, GA

Posted By: Ted Gradolf

“I’ve been around fast motorcycles my whole life, but when I switched to the S&S Cycle Pro Stock V-Twin engine it took me to the next level. Nobody builds a better S&S V-Twin engine than Derek. He’s my go to guy for horsepower.“Redell Harris - NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Rider

Posted By: Redell Harris

“I’ve known Derek for over 10 years now and can’t say enough about his professionalism and passion for motorcycles. Since the early 2000’s Derek has been extremely involved in building awesome race motors for me as well as great street motors for some of my V-Twin customers. There hasn’t been a time when he didn’t make himself available for a few minute technical phone call an that goes a long way in this industry.” MICHAEL RAY - NHRA PRO STOCK BIKE RIDER & MULTI TIME AHDRA CHAMPION

Posted By: MICHAEL RAY

"I have known Derek since 2010, and he has helped me with everything, from parts to complete engines.Whether it’s been for street bikes or for my Pro Stock Bike racing program, he always provides top quality and service." JESPER THIEL - 2011 UEM PRO STOCK BIKE CHAMPION & OWNER OF JT MOTORSPORT DENMARK.

Posted By: JESPER THIEL

"Derek and I have been friends since the mid 90’s. He’s a great guy for technical information on motorcycle engines. He was also instrumental in helping me win my first NHRA Championship in 2007." Matt Smith – 2007 & 2013 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion

Posted By: Matt Smith

"I have worked with Derek since 2010 when the magazine reached out to him for technical articles on V-Twin motorcycle engines. He has a strong background in performance engines and is able to translate his knowledge through his editorials. He’s the go to guy for Harley engines." Steve Fox – AERA Operations Manager (Engine Professional Magazine)

Posted By: Steve Fox

"I have known Derek for 20 years during my racing career. When I switched to the S&S V-Twin, he was instrumental in helping me make the transition with great technical advice. He’s a knowledgeable friend I can trust in the business."Hector Arana - 2009 NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Champion

Posted By: Hector Arana

Hello Derek,"Just wanted to thank you again for all of your efforts to design and build the perfect 126” touring engine for my bike. With 160 HP and 157 FT pounds of torque I can now ride the Rocky Mountains without continuously shifting gears. The engine will run all day on the back roads and never climb over 180 degrees: at 80 to 90 on the interstate it will ease up to 225 on warm days, unbelievable and that is with no oil cooler. Fuel mileage is the same as my friends stock bike when riding under normal conditions. Other touring it will definitely blow the back tire off at the red light. The old bagger is a real sleeper and lots of fun looking at all the long faces when they pull up at the next red light. I just love it…..”Any Way you Won’t It” Keep up the good work my friend."Terry Holsonback - Mobile, Alabama

Posted By: Terry Holsonback

"Derek has built some of the best engines that I have ever raced, including the one we went 6.91 in Sonoma in 2006. He builds reliable horsepower that last!". Chip Ellis - NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Rider

Posted By: Chip Ellis

“All of the serious engine builders are at PRI, and one of the best is Derek Churchwell from DC V-TWIN. It’s always great to see Derek. He and KPMI have a relationship that spans over two decades. During that span of time, Derek has been intimately involved in more professional motorcycle drag racing championships than most folks will see in a lifetime. He’s a knowledgeable, trusted, business partner, his feedback is invaluable, and he’s pleasure to work with”. Best Regards, Mike Michael Perry, Dir. R&D / Tech Sales Kibblewhite Precision Machining, Inc.

Posted By: Michael Perry

“Everything I own is fast - from my cars to my boats. I met Derek five years ago when I wanted to make my Harley the fastest on the streets. He exceeded my expectations for my bike by a mile. He made it so fast I was able to beat everyone from coast to coast that would race me. Since then we have built several more fast Harley’s too. I trust him and only him when it comes to making my bikes fast and you should too!”.The Sammy Bonner – “The Fastest Man In The World"

Posted By: The Sammy Bonner

“I would like to thank Derek for all he has done and designed for me and my company. SO happy with all his work and insight when it comes to V-Twin motors! His knowledge and advice is second to none and will always be appreciated as we continue to work together and this collaboration will continue for years to come! UPI PERFORMANCE AND I THANK YOU!” "Scott & JoAnne Smalley – Owners of UPI Performance and the UPI Performance NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle"

Posted By: Scott & JoAnne Smalley

“Everything I own is fast - from my cars to my boats. I met Derek five years ago when I wanted to make my Harley the fastest on the streets. He exceeded my expectations for my bike by a mile. He made it so fast I was able to beat everyone from coast to coast that would race me. Since then we have built several more fast Harley’s too. I trust him and only him when it comes to making my bikes fast and you should too!” The Sammy Bonner – “The Fastest Man In The World"

Posted By: The Sammy Bonner

“All of the serious engine builders are at PRI, and one of the best is Derek Churchwell from DC V-TWIN. It’s always great to see Derek. He and KPMI have a relationship that spans over two decades. During that span of time, Derek has been intimately involved in more professional motorcycle drag racing championships than most folks will see in a lifetime. He’s a knowledgeable, trusted, business partner, his feedback is invaluable, and he’s pleasure to work with”. Best Regards,Mike Michael Perry, Dir. R&D / Tech Sales Kibblewhite Precision Machining, Inc.

Posted By: Michael Perry

"Derek and I began designing pistons together in 1999 for NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycles. He has built many NHRA winning engines using our CP Pistons. Not only does he build race winning engines, he has a vast knowledge of the parts that make up those engines. He's the guy for any custom motorcycle engine build." Best Regards, Peter "Snake" Calvert President / CEO CP-Carrillo, Inc.

Posted By: Peter Snake