The S&S and the Harley are more similar than not. The contention in another thread that the S&S is based on "old" Harley technology could not be any more wrong. Both engines are cutting edge, state of the art, modern V-Twin drag race engines, with years of development. The brain trusts behind both are second to none in drag racing.
For the record, when Suzuki initially went drag racing (post Vic Force), the initial development happened in Gardena Ca. (RC Engineering), and was headed by Byron Hines. When Yamaha went drag racing, same story. If Suzuki drag raced a V-Twin, it would more than likely not be very different from what's out there now. Byron Hines and George Bryce are incredible drag race minds. A strong testimonial to the brilliance of both is their willingness to get help with the development of these engines and the subsequent results. Todays Road Star program has as much to do with Nigel Patrick as anyone. Muzzy and Kawasaki Drag Racing are synonymous. Pro Stock Motorcycle Drag Racing was and is developed in the States. Know the heritage, names like Bruso, Pogue, Dean (Denco), Carpenter, Mason, Farr, Tipton, Collins etc.
When the Harley's had a developmental head start and were finally running well and the S&S's were searching for "it", equal rules for both were fine. History reflects that in 2004 when the Harley's got a 40 lb.weight adjustment, the S&S's had to shoulder it also, long before they were ready or, able to. Why the difference now?
The basis of the TL as a twin is very different and legislation would surely limit it's potential. As it is, NHRA has said no. The Road Star should/would fit, but again NHRA said no.
As stated on another thread, this past weekend's Harley success was probably helped by 40 runs of testing, but insured by an ill-conceived, poorly executed rules decision.
