C25 Barracuda engines- what's the grief?

[Barney Rubble]

Thought I would ask!
some time ago, in one of the classic rags, a buyers guide advised of staying clear of the C25 engined Barracudas, as they were unreliable/flaky/self destructing. IIRC it was crank related.
Thing is, my late model Starfire, is actually a StarCuda, with a c25 engine. not matching numbers obviously!
So, what is the problem, is it real or perceived, is/was there a fix, was it worthy, and is it still available? Need I be concerned? I don't cane the thing, in fact it hasn't turned a wheel in 2 years, and it's a genteel thing when it does go out.
Internet throws up all sorts of stuff, with varying opinions, hence asking on here of the people that, presumably, use/have used them. All info welcome, be it good, bad or indifferent! Cheers'n'beers!

[JulianS]

A lot of the C25/B25 engine parts were revised over the years - stronger conrod, improved barrel to stop the liner moving, improved crankshaft to name but a few which might give some indications of problems owners have faced.

However remember that the Suzuki T20 Super Six was introduced for the 1966 season and when tested in Motorcycle Mechanics magazine , December 1966 issue they published a claimed 101 mph maximum speed. I suspect that some enthusiastic C25 owners may have tried to achieve a similar performance and the engines went bang.

[Beesy]

I think there is a lot in that. The Barracuda / Starfire has looks that outstrips it's performance.

I think it's quite a stressed engine, high compression etc. Basically its a C15 engine stretched beyond it's limits

I have a sales brochure that claims 'genuine 90 mph performance'. Maybe it could in tip top condition, but for how long?

Combine that with the fact it was learner legal and therefore unlikely to get the care and attention it needs which probably caused a large number of engine failures and a poor reputation.

Wind the clock on 50+ years and I don't see it as that important. The bikes are not owned by people who will abuse them, but instead give them lots of care and attention and ride them well within their limits.

[Barney Rubble]

Bit late, but....Yes, Kind of thinking just that myself. If I want 'exciting', I can chase my RD350 up the street! Cheers folks.