I've sourced 2 fireblade engines and I'm going to look at them tomorrow, one is 95 the other 98, both have less than 10k miles. What I want to know is which one to go for - the 95 is a peakier engine apparently, but I won't really have to worry about emmisions. The 98 is supposed to be more civilised with some redesigned internals and more torque. How much of a difference is there between the engines, and is the 98 that much better that I go to the hassle of a cat converter?

Thanks in advance,

mark

In performance terms there is very little in it, like you say the mid range on the later engine is stronger probably ecause of the throttle position sensor on the carbs so allowing better mapping, but the top end (8k upwards) there's sod all in it IME. The gearbox is also meant to be a tad stronger and the water pump / plumbing is different so you'd assume slightly more efficient.
The 98 also has an integral speedo sensor if you are planning on using the bike clocks (just need to get a Yellow Box to gain accuracy) whereas the earlier engines its on the sprocket cover so not as neat / easily adaptable.
Overall if you are confident of getting through emissions with a cat and the price difference isnt too much then Id go with the 98, but I wouldnt pay hundreds extra for the privilege.

Chris

[Edited on 26/8/04 by ChrisGamlin]

Thanks, that's exactly the answer I was looking for. We get fully tested on emmissions every 2 years, so I'd much rather not have to worry about it. Mileage on the 2 is much the same so if all goes well I'll save myself £200 and get the 95. Pity about the speedo - I had planned on using the bike dials, but thats the least of my concerns now - thanks again.

Mark

Chris is about spot on, there's not much between the engines, however I had a LOT of grief trying to get my 99 blade through emmissions, I'd recommend the 95 to save hassle.

Heck why not buy em both and keep one as a spare!!

We used the '95 and adapted the sprocket thingy for the original clocks. Tweeking it all in with a SPEEDOHEALER - range is bigger than a yellow box, guaranteed for longer and it's cheaper too.

I got the 95

Yhanks for the link Hellfire.

Mark