I installed a crank and a new top-end in an early "R" a couple of years ago. It was on completely stock settings apart from a delimited ignition, and went like a bloody rocket! While apart I marked up the RC Valve back-plates so I could finely tune them on reassembly. Correct setting of the Valves makes a HUGE difference to the engine's performance.

My '92 21SE on the other hand has no real discernible "kick", just a smooth spread of power that gets a little stronger around 9000rpm. My SE is fitted with an HRC jet kit, Ramax filters, HRC head kit, Ethos pipes, and a delimited ignition.

1st gear is noticeably longer than the "R" models' that I mentioned and I think this has a something to do with the feel of the bottom end and low-speed pickup.

If you are still concerned, get a compression test done on both bikes. See if yours reads lower, which would probably indicate the need to fit that new top end!

Andy.
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