Engine type benefits

[fordboy628]

Destroked  NASCAR would be my choice. Pick a brand and make some calls 2 year old tech from them is considered obsolete and available. I've heard Toyota is the toughest to get. Good Luck.

In doing this, you obviously need a new crank but then do you need new rods or pistons or both?

Destroking requires new crank and new rods minimum.   (Or at least "different" as they do not need to be "new")

The next question is:    What else needs to be "optimized" for the new, smaller engine?
 
Fordboy

[Frankie7799]

i've been told i can't go wrong with whatever M Lefevers recommends 

Ive heard that too, or what John Beck recommends. Both really good choices

[fordboy628]

i've been told i can't go wrong with whatever M Lefevers recommends 

Mike will not steer you wrong.      You could go a long way to find someone as good.

 
Fordboy

[wobblywalrus]

The traditional V-8 path is well worn by generations of folks with lots of money and talent.  It is hard for anyone to make a big performance increase there.  The weak spot with them in NA form is breathing.  Bikes are pretty much dominated by four valve engines with downdraft intake ports, updraft exhaust ports, efi, and the ability to rev well over 10,000 rpm.  My bet would go to looking for an engine with good architecture that has these attributes.  The way to success is to recognize and capitalize on things the other guys/gals have not figured out, yet.  That is my advice, although I am a bike racer and have no idea what this engine would be.   

[panic]

"tell them they could design any engine they wanted and I'm sure we would see something different"

X2!