S&S Cycle Engines: A Comprehensive Guide
S&S Cycle engines are V-twin engines that are commonly used to replace or upgrade stock Harley-Davidson engines. S&S stands for George Smith & Stanley Stankos, the founders of the company in 1958. Based out of Wisconsin, S&S Cycle has become one of the most trusted names in V-twin performance engines.
There are several reasons why S&S Cycle engines have become a popular engine of choice:
- Increased horsepower and torque over stock engines
- Better performance for racing, drag racing, and stunts
- More customization and engine configuration options
- Engine reliability with proper maintenance
- Bolt-in replacement for many Harley-Davidson models
Key Takeaways
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular Choice | S&S Cycle engines are a preferred option for Harley-Davidson upgrades due to increased horsepower and torque. |
| Diverse Options | The engine lineup includes Evolution, Sidewinder, SuperSidewinder, X-Wedge, Panhead, Shovelhead, and Twin Cam Engines. |
| History & Legacy | Founded in 1958, S&S Cycle has a rich history, evolving from producing high-performance pushrods to complete engines. |
| Performance Advantages | S&S engines boast impressive specs, offering high horsepower, torque, and customization options. |
| Reliability Focus | Despite the power, S&S engines maintain reliability through quality materials, manufacturing, and rigorous testing. |
| Applications & Usage | Widely used in racing, drag bikes, stunting, and custom choppers, S&S engines cater to diverse motorcycle enthusiasts. |
| Maintenance Guidelines | Following recommended maintenance, including oil changes, tune-ups, and inspections, is crucial for engine longevity. |
| User Satisfaction | Enthusiasts praise S&S engines for delivering exceptional power, reliability, and performance in various riding scenarios. |
History of S&S Cycle
S&S Cycle was founded in 1958 by George Smith and Stanley Stankos in Blue Island, Illinois. The company began by producing high-performance pushrods for flathead V-twin engines. When Harley-Davidson introduced the Evolution engine in 1984, S&S focused its efforts on making performance parts for the new Evo V-twin.
In 1990, S&S released its first complete V-twin engine, the 1200cc Shovelhead. The first S&S engine designed from scratch was the 98 cubic inch Sidewinder introduced in 1993. Through the 1990s and 2000s, S&S continued expanding its engine line with new offerings like the X-Wedge, SuperSidewinder, and Twin Cam engines.
Today, S&S produces some of the largest displacement air-cooled V-twin engines on the market up to 140 cubic inches. The company is still family-owned and proudly manufactures its engines and components at its Wisconsin headquarters.
S&S Cycle Engine Types
S&S Cycle offers a wide range of V-twin engine options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular S&S engine types:
Panhead
Engines
- Designed to replace vintage Harley-Davidson Panhead engines
- Old-school look with modern performance and reliability
- Available in 93 cubic inch displacement.
- Perfect for custom bike builds needing more power
Shovelhead
Engines
- Designed to replace vintage Harley-Davidson Shovel engines
- Old-school look with modern performance and reliability
- Available in 93 cubic inch displacement.
- Perfect for custom bike builds needing more power
Evo SuperSidewinder Engines
- Available in displacements from 96 to 124 cubic inches
- The main S&S replacement for Harley-Davidson Evolution engines
- Puts out up to 150 horsepower and massive torque
- Made for those looking to push the performance envelope
Twin Cam
Engines
- Available in 111ci, 124ci or 143ci
- Engines are protected by super tough powder coat finishes
- These engines produce huge power & torque
- With different compression ratios available you can choose one to suit your riding style
BENEFITS OF S&S CYCLE ENGINES
There are many great reasons to choose an S&S Cycle engine for your Harley-Davidson motorcycle:
Increased Horsepower & Torque
S&S engines deliver significant horsepower and torque gains over a stock Harley engine. Depending on the engine, you can get 80+ horsepower out of the box. Larger engines like the 131ci SuperSidewinder put out over 150 hp.
Bolt-In Replacements
Many S&S engines are designed as bolt-in replacements for the stock Evo and Twin Cam engines. This makes the swap much simpler compared to designing a whole custom engine setup.
Reliability
While aftermarket engines are often seen as less reliable, S&S engines are robustly made with quality components for excellent durability. With proper maintenance, an S&S Engine can last longer than as a stock engine, as they are engineered to withstand more power.
Customization
There are many options for customizing S&S engines including displacement, compression ratio, cams, cylinders, pistons, heads, and much more. Work with your engine builder to design the perfect setup.
Performance Applications
With their high-performance specs, S&S Cycle engines excel in applications like racing, drag bikes, stunting, and more.
Improved Airflow
S&S heads like the Super Stock feature better ports and airflow so the larger engines can breathe better at high RPMs. This results in better efficiency.
S&S Engine Applications
S&S V-twin engines are commonly used as replacements or upgrades for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Here are some of the most popular uses and applications:
Racing & Competition
With their performance-driven designs, S&S engines are ideal for motorcycle racing like flat track, road racing, land speed racing, and drag racing. More power and torque gives a strong advantage on the track.
Drag Bikes
Drag bikes require immense power and acceleration off the line. Large displacement S&S engines like the SuperSidewinder excel in this application, allowing drag bikes to shred quarter-mile times.
Stunting
S&S engines provide the ideal performance for bike stunting and wheelies. The abundance of low-end torque lets riders power up onto one wheel more easily for sustained wheelies.
Custom Choppers
S&S engines are commonly found powering flashy custom choppers. Their polished cases and heads look beautiful in custom frames. And they provide plenty of power to match the custom attitude.
S&S Engine Performance Specs
The wide range of S&S engine configurations allows for some seriously impressive performance specs. Here’s an overview of some of the key performance numbers:
- Horsepower: From 75 hp for smaller builds up to 155+ hp for the maxed-out 131ci SuperSidewinder
- Torque: Up to 155 ft-lbs of torque depending on the exact engine setup
- Displacement: Available from 88 cubic inches up to 131 cubic inches
- Compression Ratio: Total compression ratios ranging from 8:1 up to 11:1
- Cylinders: Twin-cylinder design provides the iconic V-twin rumble
- Cams: High-performance cams with options for more lift, duration, and overlap
- Heads: S&S Super Stock heads for improved airflow and cylinder fill
- Pistons: Forged pistons built for high cylinder pressures and RPMs
- Crankshaft: Forged and heat-treated crankshafts for high horsepower applications
Properly built S&S engines can handle RPMs over 7,000 allowing for maximum power output. With custom tuning and the right setup, S&S engines can put down seriously competitive performance numbers.
S&S Engine Reliability
While aftermarket engines are sometimes considered less reliable than stock engines, S&S V-twins are robustly engineered for long-lasting durability. Here are some of the factors that contribute to S&S engine reliability:
Quality Materials
S&S uses high-grade metals for components like forged crankshafts, cylinders, and pistons that can handle high pressures and heat. This improves strength and resilience.
Precise Manufacturing
With state-of-the-art manufacturing at their Wisconsin facility, S&S engines are machined and assembled to precise tolerances for reduced wear.
Rigorous Testing
Extensive dyno and real-world testing ensures S&S engines perform reliably in demanding operating conditions. Any issues are identified prior to production.
Proper Maintenance
Like any engine, following the maintenance schedule and guidelines in your S&S owner’s manual is crucial for longevity. This includes tune-ups, oil changes, and regular inspections.
Experienced Builders
Having an experienced engine builder handle any performance build or installation work helps ensure your S&S engine sees maximum reliability.
Upgrade Internals
For high-performance builds, using upgraded internal parts like forged rods and pistons increases strength for reliability under extreme stress.
When properly maintained and paired with high-quality components, S&S V-twin engines offer incredible reliability even with all their added power and torque. Many S&S engines log over 100,000 miles on Street Glide models and other Harley tourers.
S&S Engine Maintenance
To get the most life and performance out of your S&S engine, follow these key maintenance recommendations:
Oil Changes
- Change engine oil at recommended intervals, typically every 5,000 miles depending on the use
- Use high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil designed for air-cooled V-twins
- Inspect the oil filter and drain plug gasket during changes
Tune-Ups
- Perform tune-ups every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually
- Check and adjust valve clearances to specification
- Clean air filter element and inspect all filters (fuel, oil, transmission)
- Replace spark plugs with recommended heat range plugs
Compression Checks
- Test cylinder compression annually to check engine health
- Look for compression values within 10% across both cylinders
- Low compression can indicate worn piston rings or leaking valves
Inspect Mounts
- Check engine mounts for cracking or deterioration from vibration
- Replace deteriorated mounts to reduce the risk of cracking from excessive engine movement
Chain Maintenance
- Clean and lube drive chain and sprockets
- Check chain slack and alignment frequently
- Replace worn chain and sprockets to avoid drivetrain damage
Review Owner’s Manual
- Consult the S&S owner’s manual for model-specific guidelines
- Follow all break-in procedures for new or rebuilt engines
Regular maintenance keeps your S&S running smoothly and prevents minor issues from becoming major problems down the road. Work with your dealer or engine builder for service and support.
S&S Engine Reviews
S&S engines have earned a sterling reputation for quality, performance, and reliability from motorcycle enthusiasts. Here’s what riders have to say about these venerable V-twin powerplants:
“I installed a 111ci S&S Twin Cam in my Dyna street bob and it completely transformed the bike. Tons more power across the whole RPM range.” – Brad R.
“I’ve logged over 50,000 hard miles on an S&S 113” stroker Evo engine without a single issue. These things are built rock solid.” – Jimmy R.
“I went with an S&S 96 ci Panhead style engine for my retro-style custom bobber build. It looks old school but has modern power and reliability.” – Chris W.
“The 131 ci SuperSidewinder in my drag bike has run 9-second quarter miles with a best ET of 9.82 @ 144 mph. It’s an absolute beast!” – Gary S.
The consensus among riders is that S&S engines deliver incredible power and performance gains without compromising on durability. When treated right, they can log hundreds of thousands of trouble-free miles.
Conclusion
With their race-driven pedigree, S&S Cycle engines offer unmatched performance and power for V-twin motorcycles. From old-school Panheads to the extreme 131ci SuperSidewinder, S&S produces proven engine packages to suit any rider’s needs.
Their bolt-in simplicity combined with impressive reliability makes an S&S engine an appealing upgrade for both weekend warriors and professional racers alike. If you’re looking to extract more horses, torque, and excitement out of your Harley-Davidson, S&S has the engine to get you there.
Stay Updated with Rollies Speed Shop
Stay up to date with the latest products and best parts and accessories info available from Rollie’s Speed Shop by joining our subscriber list.
You’ll also go into our monthly prize draws to win cool Rollie’s merchandise. It doesn’t get any easier than that 
