Royal Enfield Classic 350 - Fitting the Hitchcocks Performance Camshaft

Please note:
I am not a mechanic. I’m simply competent at DIY maintenance on my vehicles, following many years of tinkering.
As far as I’m aware all the information in this video is correct.
Any work you do on your own machine is done at your own risk.
These are the parts I purchased to complete the fitting of the camshaft. All parts obtained from Hitchcocks.
Performance camshaft:
accessories.hitchcocksmotorcy...
Cam timing TDC tool:
accessories.hitchcocksmotorcy...
Crank lock tool:
accessories.hitchcocksmotorcy...
Gasket - Tensioner:
accessories.hitchcocksmotorcy...
Gasket - Cover RH:
accessories.hitchcocksmotorcy...

[@morrisminor56]

This video is as good as it gets. Very clear and easy to follow, unlike Hitchcocks own video. Job well done.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, hope you find it useful 🏍️👍

[@user-eg7uw9ls4o]

I love Hitchcocks, but I must whole heartedly agree with you. Also, presumably if a seller of something shows you how easy it is to fit and the benefits of using it they will sell more.

[@timolanteala-brown9608]

Agreed, I've bought lots or shall I say all my extras from Hitchcocks.

[@joebloggs1583]

Always good to see people working on there bikes like we all used to instead of being scared off by manufacturers and warranty nonsense paying overpriced dealers hundreds to change the oil and do easy valve checks which is a joke I’ve got a classic 350 myself and the ideal bike to learn on 😎👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍 These simple bikes are great fun to work on, love my wee 350.

[@johnrocker2986]

Honestly hope your time money and effort is a benefit. I have my doubts but I may be wrong? Dyno's over the years I've had Dyno time about five times and noted each Dyno showed conflicting figures second how will you alter the fuel curve to suit a different profile? I really do hope you benefit!

[@fs5866]

Checking valve clearance can be a nightmare on some bikes and a walk in the park for others. Most modern bikes you gotta tear away most of the top of the bike, fuel tank, fairing, air box, to get to be able to remove the engine cover. At that point might be easier to just take it to the shop

[@frankiepitt9135]

@@johnrocker2986the before and after results were measured on Hitchcocks own dynamometer, so should give an accurate indication of any gain as it’s not done on different dynamometers. Whether the change is worth it or not is for the bike owner to decide.

[@paulmccarter908]

What this guy is doing is miles ahead of fluid refresh, it should be noted.

[@tonyhawkins1258]

I am impressed, I would imagine that if folks followed your method they would have the satisfaction of doing the job better than the average dealer could.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@twowheeledparadox]

You say in your video description that you're not a mechanic but you worked like a pro throughout! I don't even have a J-series 350 and I watched the whole thing! This is a high quality video!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your kind comments, it’s much appreciated 👍

[@panroman8970]

In accordance to above, that's right, everything is correct spoken in this comment above about this video, really interesting, I am considering to purchase this model, greet from Poland.

[@panroman8970]

@@tigerness5555 Thank You for posting this really OK video, I'm gathering informations about this model, and considering purchasing, greetings from Poland.

[@harindranathghosh1283]

As a person who studied Automobile engineering, I love everything about this video....

[@tigerness5555]

Thank you for your supportive comments, very much appreciated. Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@Tonyv1951]

Brilliant clarity of explanation. Perfect video quality. This man would be the most fantastic trainer of mechanics.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍 I have to be a mechanic before I start training 🤣

[@richardcrighton8079]

i installed (or rather paid someone else to do it - i've got no workshop) the cam and it makes a subtle but noticeable difference. obviously i've got the hitchcock's pipe, fuelx and dna filter too. it now runs through the rev range really smoothly and more powerfully. recommended!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, yes this is definitely one worthwhile modification 🏍️👍

[@fnagdungdagint]

What did it cost you to have the camshaft fitted?

[@elwood62]

You’ve made a better video than Hitchcocks did. Based on the clarity of yours I think I’ll actually do this mod myself.

[@tigerness5555]

Thank you, I watched Hitchcocks video a few times before making mine, like you I didn’t think it was very clear. Great to hear that you found mine useful, good luck with the modification, it’s well worth doing in my opinion.

[@stevenmiller184]

This is a well crafted video. Good lighting and good camera angles. The clarity and step wise nature of it makes the job seem less daunting. I would not have even thought of doing this based on the Hitchcock's video.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it useful 👍

[@AdrianShawDrummer]

Yes I'm afraid the Hitchcocks video was awful. The mechanic wasn't allowed to speak for himself and looked bored whilst the other guy was just boring.

[@blaurolsen]

Great video with excellent close shots and good explanations, very comprehensive. I ordered mine at Hitchcocks today! Looking forward to your next mods and for a test with the new set up!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and found it useful. Congratulations on ordering the camshaft, they seem to be in great demand and are always out of stock. You’ll be impressed with the improvement in power 👍

[@peterwillis4239]

Brilliant work. Well done, very clear instructions, thorough enjoyed it. Thanks. Look forward to part two. 👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your kind words 🏍️👍

[@yellownev]

An excellent video which I’m sure will be watched many times as the de facto way to do the change. Thank you for taking the time to post this up. Ride safe.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@jamesdspaderf2883]

A masterclass in motorcycle wrenching. Thank you.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@robinjohnston1287]

Very useful. Thanks for taking the time to put it together.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@richardclark716]

Well done! So much better than the Hancock video.

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Richard Great to hear that you’ve enjoyed my video and hopefully found it helpful. I also watched the Hitchcocks video a few times before making mine, their video was not very clear and I thought I could make one that was clearer 😁👍

[@chrisc9376]

Very well presented, great videography, I've just ordered the 350 signals, looking forward to riding it, also have a himalayan in the garage so will sit well together. Keep the vids coming, great stuff.

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Chris, great to hear that you enjoyed my video. These are fantastic and fun little bikes, so underrated 👍

[@hunterrider349]

Superberb video, very professional, couldn't be any better, looking forward too part two, well done, thanks

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your kind words 🏍️👍

[@user-gn7cm6db2d]

Beautifully explained and executed.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@michaelnicholson5218]

Great video , with specific details, the best one yet! By FAR. !!! I'm bursting to buy a 350.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it helpful. The wee 350’s are great bikes, everyone that tries them loves them 😁

[@Handirifle]

Very well done. Great video work, showing everything one needs to see.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video, hope you found it helpful 👍

[@AdrianShawDrummer]

Brilliant demonstration. Thanks. I'll be doing this in my Meteor.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it useful 🏍️👍

[@timsatchell6713]

Excellent video. Very clear and understandable. Will save this for the future. Love the Abbalift in use.

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Tim, great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍 The Abba lift is excellent, that said there is one issue with it that will be coming out in a video in a couple of weeks.

[@timsatchell6713]

@@tigerness5555 shortly after your excellent video on the Abbalift, I forwarded it to Lanes Explorer who had said he had just happened apon it and your video convinced him. He made made a very complimentary video and got a lot of feedback. Many noted the precarious part of moving to the right hand side of the bike. One commenter suggested using the leveling strap to hold the bike. It worked brilliantly. While Peter was demonstrating this I had to rush to the garage and measure the tool hole in the back axel. 9mm. Perfect size to use a stainless D-shackles as an attachment of the levelling strap. Looking forward to a vidio Peter.

[@Paul-67]

You have a very good manner in describing things, by far the best video I have watched about a cam replacement on the J series engine. I have subscribed to your channel.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, and thank you for your kind comments 👍

[@reclassic350au42]

Brilliant tutorial; clear and precise. Thanks, from Australia, for uploading. Thanks for the links too. Makes very it easy to track down the parts.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it helpful. Ride safe 👍

[@davidmahon5496]

What a great logical video the best I have seen , I fitted the Kent cam from Hitchcocks today , hardest bit was refitting the cam cover gasket , top marks for your guide , well done .😊

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it helpful 😁👍

[@JohnMills-ov8qx]

Superb video. A model of clarity.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@nigeldean3315]

Always enjoy your videos and very well presented on this one

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and many thanks for your compliments 🏍️👍

[@csc-photo]

I appreciate having access to clear, thorough DIY videos like this one - thank you for all the time and effort it takes to produce this content. My plans for my 350 Classic on the performance side certainly involve allowing the bike to breathe better - CAT delete and DNA air filter (unsure about Stage 2 cover, heard a few things about higher rpm struggles with that). I likely won't replace the camshaft, but I'll keep an eye on your assessment here for sure. Thanks!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your kind words 👍 Next weeks video may also be of interest to you. The Classic 350 is a fabulous little bike, ride safe.

[@philpeacock7803]

Thanks for a great video. Best one I've seen for fitting the camshaft upgrade. You've given me the confidence to have a go at doing the job myself. Cheers

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it useful. It’s really an easy job if your fairly competent at DIY maintenance 🏍️👍

[@philpeacock7803]

How have you found the bike since the upgrade to the camshaft? Is it worth spending the dosh on it? Cheers Phil

[@ianness2315]

My bike is performing much better with the new camshaft. It definitely pulls much better at higher revs and reaches maximum speed with ease. There’s a follow up video coming out on Tuesday which may answer your questions.

[@kevbaldwin9552]

Good job of that Ian very clear and well shot 👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@frankfeely9235]

Excellent guide Ian. It makes sense to buy the special tools, takes the drama out of doing the job.

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Frank, great to hear that you enjoyed my video. You can borrow the tools if you want to do it to your Hunter. A Hunter owner commented on this video who has done the camshaft, decat pipe and DNA filter. His bike now does 87mph 🤣

[@frankfeely9235]

@@tigerness5555 Sounds like a plan!

[@pavlemarina]

Very exciting video, like watching an open heart surgery (which it is!). Very happy for your successful upgrades, wish you million more miles to enjoy your bikes!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@UsaSzerelem]

High quality video. Thank you for sharing this information.

[@tigerness5555]

Glad you enjoyed it! 👍

[@JustPlainCommonSense]

Now if I could only find a camshaft available... Thanks for the great video!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your kind words 🏍️👍 Because of people like me they keep selling out 🤣. Hope you get one soon.

[@kentzotter]

Excellent video. I just ordered the parts for my Classic and I’ll use your video as my guide.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and have found it helpful 👍

[@waynehiggs6529]

Great video,well videoed and good explanation of each stage. Looking forward to the next video. Cheers from Australia

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Wayne, great to hear that you enjoyed my video. It’s fantastic to see them being enjoyed all over the world 😁👍

[@mikedall9527]

Great stuff. Most enjoyable as well as educational👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and found it useful 👍

[@johnwerner7194]

Fantastic video. Just a perfectly done job

[@tigerness5555]

Hi John, great to hear that you enjoyed my video, and thank you for your kind comments 👍

[@rohanchapman4159]

excellent tutorial, many thanks will be doing this over the winter

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it helpful 👍

[@patrickcolclough2423]

Excellent video, just what I was looking for. Nicely presented too. :)

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and found it helpful 👍

[@brettwicks7339]

Well done Sir , your a pleasure to watch , Take care .

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your supportive comments 👍

[@chriserskine585]

I've just bought my new cam, and the special tools, didn't fancy anything moving when I cracked off the bolts, looking forward to getting it done, just need a clear day, excellent vid, everything the Hitchcocks vid wasn't ❤

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Chris, great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it useful. I’m over the moon with my camshaft upgrade. The bike doesn’t go any faster due to being top speed limited by the ECU, but it gets up there a lot faster and easier. It just gives the bike that extra bit of punch it was lacking. Remember to watch the next video coming out on Tuesday which is a follow up to this one 👍.

[@whitbythegoth]

Will need to wait for a camshaft from Hitchcock's, out of stock @ moment, due sometime in February. Thank's for sharing this video Ian, a good tutorial.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your supportive comments 👍

[@tonimang6515]

Good Morning, yes, I find it very helpful 👍. In order to prepare myself for my own first RE Classic 350 which I will get in February 24 🍀 Pleased keep on with your interesting content. Tks a Lot 🤝🇬🇧🏍️

[@tigerness5555]

Excellent, great choice of new bike, I’m sure you’ll love it.

[@brianrozema9963]

Excellent video, thank you for sharing it!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and I hope you found it useful 👍

[@EastboundDwn]

This has to be my favorite install video for this cam!👍 I'm more impressed you left the oil in. 😂

[@tigerness5555]

It’s great to hear that you enjoyed this video and hopefully found it useful. Oil what oil 🤣👍

[@josephxanthopoulos]

Suppose it's the same for all new 350cc . Well done. Perfect and clean job !

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Joseph Yes the camshaft is the same for all the new 350’s with the J series engine. Check out the fitting list at the link below. Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it helpful 👍 accessories.hitchcocksmotorcycles.com/48439?cont_page=information-and-services/Royal-Enfield-350-Classic-Accessories&page=4

[@FairWeatherMotorcyclist]

Hi Tiger, I just watched both episodes and once again a big thank you. I keep dismissing the wee 350 classic due to its performance however, you have clearly shown that these upgrades are just what the bike needs and will most likely make the 350 much more appealing for many riders. I ve been umming and aahring of what 2nd bike to get to have fun around the back lanes and twisties where I live in Norfolk, and I think a nice used classic with these mods an pair of multi sport tyres may very be the way to go. Once again you have produced an excellent how to video and proven the that the upgrades work.. 👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video. It’s a fun wee bike to own and ride. It also handles incredibly well, especially on twisty back roads 👍

[@andrewgateway]

Great quality video. Thanks.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@colinmartin2921]

Excellent video!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your supportive comments 👍

[@edwardotto1528]

Job done - your video helped - many thanks. The strip down and rebuild stages were daunting - but I got through it. I like the effect of the new cam - as you said making the bike more enthusiastic - but it hasn't improved the traffic though !😄

[@tigerness5555]

It does help you cut through the traffic faster though 🤣 Great to hear that you’ve fitted the camshaft and noticed the big improvement 👍

[@georgezuss2925]

What a superb piece, friend, thank you kindly for sharing. I'm no mechanic or classic owner but I've been less focused and entertained watching Diana Rigg in black leather or Joanna Lumley getting out of a Lotus Europa! You have a gift for offering just the right amount of detail, stopping short of waffle but without being too summary. Your excellent workshop lighting and camera set-up certainly adds fabulous clarity. Equally, your Scottish lilt adds a hint of authority and makes for easy understanding. Great youtube content; in fact it was 'absolutely spot-on'...sorry, couldn't help myself! Subbed and looking forward to a binging catch-up on your work. Take care, friend.

[@tigerness5555]

Thank you, great to hear that you enjoyed the video 👍

[@josephmcginley2427]

Love video, awaiting follow up on proformence outcome.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, hope you found it useful 👍

[@fireblademeta1841]

Havent modified my bike yet besides some saddlebags and a dufflebag setup for camping and hiking. But this video is gonna help a lot once i do mod it. I love how easy you make it to follow along, simple clear instructions are a mechanics best friend. I got a 22 classic 350 for my first bike and i love it, everything is perfect from the price, riding quality, sound, how easy it is to fix and modify. Even the warranty for the bike is really good especially compared to like harley davidson

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it helpful 👍 Enjoy your Classic 350, they’re fantastic wee bikes.

[@tincho679]

👋👋You produced a much better video than H did, respect for them, but your video is much clearer, Tanks!!!

[@tigerness5555]

So nice of you, many thanks 👍 I watched Hitchcocks video a few times before making mine. Their one is very good, but I thought that I could make one that was clearer and also with the engine still in the frame. Great to hear that you enjoyed it.

[@johnrobertsmith9481]

This video will be with me step by step.❤

[@tigerness5555]

Hi John Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and found it helpful 👍 Also check out Coastrider’s video on fitting the clutch cover, link below. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIGxdoRnm5plnacsi=n9sURQl6SxwpcIbD

[@mike-the-bike.]

Many thanks for taking the time to put this video together, I’ve followed it yesterday and this morning as I fitted my performance camshaft. Marvellous having the ability to stop, pause, click back a few seconds then move forward with confidence. I was a little nervous before turning the key but it fired up no problem. Doing a test run tomorrow in the better weather. Thanks again

[@tigerness5555]

Fabulous to hear this, please let me know how the test run goes and what you think of the performance camshaft upgrade. Cheers TN

[@mike-the-bike.]

@@tigerness5555Hi there, I managed a short test run of around 20 miles before the weather turned foul, I found the bike had been transformed with a lot more eagerness to get on down the road. The throttle seemed very responsive now bringing the bike alive, not for the top end performance, but the mid range - where all of the fun is 30 - 60mph. Your videos will have helped countless 350 owners to achieve more from this great low cc machine. Thank you once again.

[@ianness2315]

Fantastic news, you’ve described exactly how my bike also performs. This is by far the best modification that can be done to this bike. Many thanks for your correspondence, enjoy your new found performance. @@mike-the-bike.

[@mike-the-bike.]

@@ianness2315 Good Morning Ian, I could see in your previous videos that you fitted the Hitchcocks freeflow exhaust system to your 350, I was wondering why you removed it?, as I’m considering purchasing for reduced weight and freeflow gain. I have already fitted the Hitchcocks decat pipe, freeflow air filter, Venturi intake & fuelX lite. We pack the 350 into the garage of our motorhome, and this becomes our primary source of transport while touring. This year we road 1400 miles together circumnavigating France, Spain, Portugal, back into northern Spain then ferry back to Blighty at Bilbao. So riding in Spain’s mountain ranges in 35 degrees was challenging for a little air cooled 350cc - struggled a little like an old air cooled vdub. I watched a vid from a guy in the States who after fitting FuelX lite, recorded a drop of 200 degrees operating temp from the engine, which can only help

[@mike-the-bike.]

@@ianness2315 Sorry I got pulled away with a phone call - should have signed off: regards Mike

[@jimstewart2141]

lovely video look forward to next

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@jimstewart2141]

Where did you get your lovely bike lift from not seen one of those before @@tigerness5555

[@richardjones3112]

Great job.👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, hope you found it helpful 👍

[@JeremyHollier]

Great video.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, hope you found it useful 👍

[@ianfossett4482]

Nice job 👍👍

[@tigerness5555]

Thank you! Cheers 👍

[@abhimanyuinjeti5326]

Good work! From Madras/Chennai India

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@tonimang6515]

Hi, thank you for this nice Video!

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and hopefully you found it helpful 👍

[@paulholmes1682]

On the subject of "don't drop that nut", my neighbour (honestly it wasn't me) replaced the head gasket on an over-head cam, 4-cyl car engine with the plugs removed, but with the job almost complete, dropped a nut that was a very close fit in the plug threads. The nut still managed to fall through into the cylinder. Oh dear and start again, the air was blue!!! Enjoyed your video with my fingers crossed for you🤞

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Paul, a nightmare scenario and something we’ve all experienced in one way or another. The camshaft sprocket bolts are actually easy to remove and keep hold off, I kept saying be careful to emphasise the point. Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and thanks for keeping your fingers crossed 🤣👍

[@hctim96]

You have funky thumbs like me!!! Great vid btw. Best yet!!

[@tigerness5555]

Never knew that I had funky thumbs 🤣. Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍

[@IndianaCarrollski350]

Great informative video thank you. Just one thing! When you were undoing the camshafts gear sprocket bolts, I would have stuffed a cloth in underneath as added security

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍 Yes I agree with you regarding undoing the bolts. Actually there wasn’t any problems as the bolts were very easy to keep hold off. I just elaborated in the dialogue to warn others to be careful.

[@daveJones362]

Great video thanks jock

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@ourspanishadventures]

Very informative thank you

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍

[@freddy9210]

Brilliant 🎉

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it helpful 👍

[@orindamn4475]

These are the kinds of videos youtube used to be about instead of stupid shorts... I am glad I found this. This is infotainment... ❤ Great view.. loved it, learnt from it. No background music, just a dude playing with the thing he loves most. ❤ God bless you Tiger, care you include a fuel economy change after this mod?

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, and thank you for your kind comments 👍 I don’t know if there’s been any change in the fuel consumption. It’s not really an issue on this bike as the fuel consumption is fantastic, anywhere between 90 to 110 mpg depending on how you ride it 🤣

[@orindamn4475]

@@tigerness5555 okay then I guess no change in that. Cool thanks again. Would love to see more mods and changes like these on the 350.

[@weemark67]

Great video Ian. Been interested in this. But am no mechanic. Very interesting to see the insides of the J engine, well top half. Looking forward to part 2, and how your gorgeous bike, is afterwards. It says not much running in required. Should give a significant power and torque, up through the gears. Fantatatic. Love it. Lol…..Got few accessories in mind etc, for Bumble, next year. Best regards.😊

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Marc, great to hear that you enjoyed the video. It’s definitely improved the performance of the bike, faster acceleration and pulls up hills better. Top speed is just the same as it’s speed limited. What is great is that overtaking is so much easier now, it accelerates up to top speed with ease. It was always a fun bike to ride, now it’s even better. Nothing really to run in, I just took it easy for a few miles. Enjoyed watching Coast Rider and you a few days ago. Ride safe 👍

[@weemark67]

@@tigerness5555 that will be a real positive, the fact you know you have more oomph, to do an overtake. Bruce, is a lovely person, just wish, I had gone further south, with him. Really nice, 2 RE’s together! Hopefully see you at Wee Smokie,m this Sunday, if dry. Mark.

[@Team-fabulous]

I have a year old meteor and always thought it would be nice to have just a bit more piff.. Its camshaft time🏁🏁🏁

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed with a camshaft change 👍

[@MrB1967]

Great videon as always, TN.. loved the look on your face when you stepped back once the bulk of the job was done. I think you enjoyed doing that as much as we enjoyed watching! I had kind of talked myself out of going down the new cam route, but... Luckily, Hitchcocks haven't got any in stock anyway! Did you reuse the engine cover gaskets and the rocker cover gasket?

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it useful 👍 I reused the cam cover seal, and fitted new gaskets to the side cover and cam chain tensioner housing. Christmas is just around the corner for present hints 🤣🎄

[@guydeherdt9917]

Very interesting !

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, and found it interesting 👍

[@kf-kr4tt]

Look forward to a follow up how it runs video

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video, the follow up will be out on Tuesday 👍

[@stevesanelli90]

Very well explained by a true master! Well done explaining the details with torque settings. If I were to replace the camshaft, I’d also prefer to use the proper setting tools & a perfect invaluable torque wrench. I hope to see future videos of your performance evaluations. I believe you have a Hitchcocks full exhaust system & a DNA air filter? Is this correct?🤔

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍 I’ve sold my free flow exhaust system as I found it was far too loud for my liking. I’ve never had a DNA filter on this bike. Watch out for next weeks video as this is an area I’ve addressed 😁

[@garykyle5750]

Great video. Fitted the cam to my 350 last month. I used a dial gauge to check TDC rather than the crank lock and triple checked the cam timing. Performance evaluation: “feels” like the bike pulls better longer and definitely gets to the speed restriction of the ECU quicker. Now if we could just get that ECU reprogrammed. I’m using FuelX lite, UNI air filter and plate, Hitchcocks full stainless exhaust system. Simply love this bike and I’ve been riding everything from Vincent’s to Honda Navi since 1958. What lift are you using? Many with smiles cousin!

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Gary, great to hear that you enjoyed my video and thank you for your evaluation of the camshaft 👍 Like you I’ve had many bikes over the years but this simple little 350 is something special. It takes me back over half a century to when I started riding. The lift is an Abba Sky Lift, this is a video I made about it kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJCWo6N_epyBY5osi=WQdBhNn1dWmyaBGt I’ve a follow up video of the camshaft upgrade coming out on Tuesday and another video regarding the sky lift the week after that you may be interested in. Ride safe 🏍️

[@johnos23]

When removing the bolts from the cam chain sprocket all you need do is scrunch up a paper towel and push it into the gap . If by any chance you do drop a bolt it will just lie on the towel…….👍

[@tigerness5555]

I agree with you and that’s normal what I would do. The bolts are really easy to keep hold of so there wasn’t any issue. I kept saying to be careful simply to emphasise the point. Hope you enjoyed the video 👍

[@PAGallagher]

Good video and great detail ....... actually better than Hitchcock's video, doing the same procedure :) I have a Hntr 350 so I'll be interested to see how your cam upgrade performs. All the best, Phil

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video. I watched Hitchcocks video a few times and thought that I could do a better job. The cam upgrade is working well, very happy with the performance increase. If you trawl back through the comments on this video you will find a Hunter owner who has done the camshaft, decat pipe and DNA. His bike now does 87mph as the Hunter is not speed restricted.

[@PAGallagher]

@@tigerness5555 Crikey!! 87mph on a Hunter ....... think I might need to glue myself to the bike for those kinds of speeds :) Interesting though. I'm glad yours is working well, have you noticed any change to the amazing economy. I regularly get between 115 and 125mpg with my stock bike but I don't thrash it.

[@markwood9755]

As per all other comments a brilliant video. There is only one downside to watching your content, you do have a wee knack of making me spend money 😂

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, so sorry to cause you so many money worries 🤣👍

[@TheGarrydn1]

Great video, done the camshaft on my hunter 350 , with DNA filter and cover and fuelx pro a couple of months ago . There weren't any exhausts available for it so I had a plan to use a modified scram system, but Hitchcock just released an Enfield precision end can for it which should arrive today so will see if that improves performance anymore 👍

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 🏍️👍 This is definitely a worthwhile modification as you will know. I’ve heard that this is even better on the Hunter as it doesn’t have the 74mph speed restriction, is this correct?

[@nourmohammed6572]

I am interested, by this subject I also want to increase the speed of my meteor350, so do not hesitate to tell me if the modifications have increased the speed

[@tigerness5555]

I assume the Meteor is top speed limited the same as my Classic 350. If this is the case then the top speed will NOT increase, but the it will get to the top speed much faster and climb hills easier. Hope this answers your question.

[@TheGarrydn1]

@@tigerness5555 yeah the hunter will do 87mph then hits what I assume is the rev limiter

[@tigerness5555]

87mph Wow that’s impressive. I assume it’s due to the 17inch wheels, different setup and less weight than the Classic 350. Don’t think I’d like to be on mine at that speed 🤣 Mine now gets up to 75mph with ease, would definitely go faster if it wasn’t speed limited. Many thanks for the info, much appreciated 👍

[@paulsymon9627]

Brilliant master class. I assume the special tools are available via the R.E. dealer.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and hopefully found it useful 👍 I purchased the camshaft and special tools from Hitchcocks. See video description for more information.

[@horspiste]

Excellent video Ian, much clearer than Hitchcocks' own video in which the mechanic seems to get himself in the way most of the time so you can't see what he's doing. I see that your throttle cable runs over the top of the rubber on the left hand side of the frame, as did mine, but I found it impossible to get the tank back on with it there - the bracket kept jamming on the cable outer sheath, so I routed it underneath the rubber instead. Is there a "knack" to getting the tank on? 😆 My only concerns about these mods are a) are you bothered at all about the warranty? (and I'm not sure I am because my dealer is pretty useless, I'm much happier doing the routine maintenance myself) and b) what are the insurance implications? Thanks again.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my 🏍️👍 I agree with you about the Hitchcocks video, I’ve watched it a few times and thought that I could make one better. I’ve never had any problems removing the tank, no different than my other bikes. Regarding warranty, personally I’m not bothered, actually the dealer I bought my bike from has just closed down. As the top speed of the bike hasn’t changed due to it being speed limited I see no reason to tell the insurance. It does get up to top speed much faster though 😁. Who’s ever going to look into the engine to find out 🤣

[@SteveRobertsTheNurdler]

Which brand of bike lifter / stand are you using? Great video and inspires confidence.

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Steve It’s a “ABBA SkyLift” great bit of kit, I use it on all my bikes. If you look on ABBA’s website you’ll find that they do not list a fitting kit for the Classic 350. I have found a way to make it work, full details can be found in this video I made about it last year. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJCWo6N_epyBY5osi=83dUqAoSef9MADEy Great to hear that you enjoyed the video and hopefully found it useful 👍

[@gaza1952]

Great video Tiger. But can I get your thoughts on the initial source of air flow toward the air filter? It comes from the area just above the front of the chainguard, an area that dust, kicked up by the back wheel. seems like a bad idea to me, particularly here in Australia with lots of dry dirt roads. Gary

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and hopefully found it useful. I don’t have any problem with the air housing location, too damp for lots of dust here in Scotland 🤣

[@JaisonAntonyromeojaison]

I'm impressed with your video and I'm planning to boost up the performance for my bike. But I have a doubt, will this kent cam fit for Thunderbird 350x?

[@tigerness5555]

Hi Jaison Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and hopefully found it helpful 👍 This Kent camshaft is only for the new J series engine as used in the new Meteor, Classic 350 and Hunter models. Your Thunderbird 350x uses the older engine which is a completely different design and not suitable for this particular camshaft.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

The RE 500 had hydraulic valve adjustment and a Kickstarter. It also had 10 more HP . The new ones are loaded with electronics waiting to have a expensive failure. Today's motorcycles are a collection of government regulations on 2 wheels.

[@tigerness5555]

They don’t make them like that anymore unfortunately.

[@cleeveofford1720]

Brilliant informative video, just a question though, how do you get on with the new cam with the engine limiter? Are you still buggered at 71?

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and hopefully found it useful 👍 Unfortunately the bike is still limited to a maximum speed of 73 mph due to the ECU on the throttle body. The good news is that it definitely gets up to that maximum speed so much easier and faster. The performance camshaft upgrade is well worth doing 😁

[@kenmoore4737]

Hi thank you for your videos on the Royal Enfield they are very helpful to me. I have a question regarding up grades would these particularly the cam up grade would this be advisable to inform Insurance people for cover, I've never heard any one mention this.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video, hope you found it useful 👍 That’s a contentious issue, it’s entirely up to you whether you inform them or not.

[@kenmoore4737]

@@tigerness5555 sorry I don't know how I did that the word should not have been political but particularly the cam. Thanks for the answer.

[@iancatlin5985]

great video! Question - do RE specify any sort of thread-lock on the cam sprocket bolts etc?

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video. I don’t know if Royal Enfield specify thread lock. For this video I copied how Hitchcocks fitted the cam and there was no mention of this in there video. Also the thread on the camshaft sprocket appears to have an interference fit, you feel the thread tightening as the bolts are being screwed in before they’re fully seated.

[@iancatlin5985]

@@tigerness5555 that makes sense, thank you. Do keep up the great content!

[@florinzarnescu3682]

Great explanation and easy to follow tutorial, thank you! But from my understanding RE have chosen their standard camshaft to keep the engine from running to hot (and also exhaust restriction). Will overheating be a problem if replacing the camshaft?

[@tigerness5555]

I have the decat pipe, FuelX light and Hitchcocks air box cover on the bike. I also have an oil temperature gauge fitted. My bike runs very well with no overheating. Hope you enjoyed my video 👍

[@florinzarnescu3682]

I really did, thank you!

[@patrickobrien2068]

Hi, great video ! It gave me the confidence to do it myself. Unfotunately, the bike wont start now. Any advice as to what i might adjust or check for? When tightening those three bolts i initially didnt have the lock in and the sproket shifted a bit.

[@tigerness5555]

It’s possible that your valve timing is out. More likely it’s an electrical part you’ve not reconnected properly. Do you hear the fuel pump pressuring the system when you turn the ignition on? Is the fuel line properly plugged in?

[@patrickobrien2068]

@tigerness5555 Thanks. Connections look good, so I'll try putting the cam in again! By the way, if I really messed things up and the valves aren't closed when I lock the crank at TDC, can I push them down by hand when I take off the rocker box so they are ready for the new cam placement?

[@buttercupbloke]

Hi TN, I’ve finally got all the parts to undertake this task. Understand why you didn’t include the removal of the clutch cover, but do you know the torque setting for the row of bolts that hold it on? Please keep up the great work.

[@tigerness5555]

Hi TS41 Great to hear that you enjoyed the video. Good luck with the camshaft install, it really does improve the performance of the bike. The torque setting is between 8 and 12 Nm, I put mine to 10 Nm. Hope this helps.

[@buttercupbloke]

Thanks TN👍.

[@ubiratamuniz]

Perfect description and lesson on how to install the cams... but considering that the top speed is limited to 120kph in the ECU, I personally don´t think this mod is worth the cost and work. I´m checking with Brazilian Royal Enfield dealers if the ECU speed limiter can be disabled the Classic in the same manner as it was done in the Meteors for local market, which would make this mod actually worthwhile for our Classics. If I could get just 10kph more out of it I´d be VERY pleased. It would be in just the sweet spot.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍 I don’t have a problem with the top speed being governed. What I do love is the increase in top end power and acceleration.

[@robertsaunders4417]

Fantastic video. I've watched it numerous times in preparation for the arrival of my Christmas cam (and specialty tools and cat delete pipe). Having adjusted my valves previously, I feel more confident in doing this upgrade. I know the cost may not justify the results, but what price can you put on knowledge gained and the fun of wrenching. One question, Hitchcocks instructions differ from yours on seating camshaft or am I confusing that with re-mapping the ECU?

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed the video 👍 I’m not quite clear what do you mean about seating the camshaft. I also watched Hitchcocks video a few times and followed how they installed the camshaft and did mine in exactly the same way. I did find that their video wasn’t very clear at times and this was the reason for me making mine.

[@robertsaunders4417]

Sorry for my confusing question. Hitchcocks website says the following which was different to your final process: "There is very little required to bed in the cam on the roller rocker setup on these engines. The typical procedure would be as follows: start the engine up and pick the revs straight up to 2000-3000rpm for approx. 10-15 minutes, during this time vary the rpm smoothly throughout this range and do not allow the engine idle for any extended period of time. After this, allow the engine to cool and it can then be run as normal".

[@kenmoore4737]

Hj my new cam shoujd be on its way to me as i write this Hitchcocks dont have the locking toos in stock so il just have to rely on memory when i used to find TDC on my old bikes. So if its ok ill be taking my computer into my shed and do the cam on my meteor sep by step watching your video, thanks for the clear discription how its done.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and hopefully you found it helpful 👍 If you know what you’re doing and take care I’m sure it’ll go well. The one tool that I think is the most helpful is the cam locking tool.

[@kenmoore4737]

@@tigerness5555 I've made one if it works I'll try and send a photo. I measured the distance between the three points which works out at two and a half inches between them (old school) using a compass if I got It right a sharp point on one end and a pencil in the other that how I got the measurements right I hope.

[@davidrawlings3460]

Excellent video I will be referring to this if/when hitchcocks get the cam in stock. Was the side casing gasket a pain to get off? Or are you intending to reuse it? Also I believe you took the fuelx lite and decat exhaust off, are you refitting some else like the decat pipe and using the fuelx lite again? Do you still have the DNA air filter. Otherwise I don't understand why your doing the cam for more power without the basic mods. Sorry for the question just wondered the direction you was going.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video and found it useful. The side casing gasket came off in bits but was easy. Yes I did fit a new one. Yes I had previously taken the FuelX lite and free flow exhaust system of the bike. Those items have been sold. I found the exhaust rather noisy for my liking. I’ve never had a DNA filter. You’ll have to wait till next weeks video to get the full picture of all my performance modifications 🤣 What I will say is that they have all been very worthwhile 👍

[@davidrawlings3460]

@tigerness5555 I'm looking forward to the next video. I have the DNA air filter, not sure on the performance improvements but sounds nice. I fitted hitchcocks decat but to be honest the cat was very free flowing anyway but again a little different in exhaust note. I did hear someone mentioning the cam caps have stretch bolts but at 10Nm don't think that to be the case. Funny how everything is 10 Nm. Keep up the good work. Lift looks an awesome height to work at for this job.

[@candidosteeley]

WOW excellent work thankyou. When are you doing the throttle body. Wee mark just did his and likes it alot. I think he said RL T 00187 was part #. Anyways looking forward for that video. Just found out hunter throttle body only works for meteor, darn it.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear you enjoyed the video. The RLT00187 throttle body does not work on the classic 350, I know because I tried fitting one to my bike. To date I’ve not found an unrestricted throttle body that works on the classic 350.

[@SergePanayi]

​@@tigerness5555 Have ye tried the older RLT00164 Throttle Body? It's unrestricted as well I believe.

[@tigerness5555]

The RLT00164 is the standard Hunter throttle body. I had an RLT00187 body and it didn’t work on my Classic 350. I sold it to a friend who has a Meteor and a Hunter. He fitted it to the Meteor first and it worked properly and was unrestricted. He then fitted it to the Hunter with the same unrestricted result. By this reasoning, I suspect that the RLT00164 will also not work on the Classic 350. I’m still no further forward in finding an unrestricted body for the Classic 350.

[@SergePanayi]

@@tigerness5555 The RLT00164 is the previous Hunter TB and the 187 is the most recent one for the Hunter, I think? I get your logic on why it, too, wouldn't work on the Classic 350. Thank you. I'm fitting the Camshaft next week but I won't be cracking the RH Clutch cover open. Like the video from Foxxy, if you look closely, if you just mark the cam sprocket/chain location first, you can avoid it. I will use the cam tool but not the crank tool. Too much of a pain. I'll loosen the TOP Sprocket bolt slightly first but keep it on, remove the two others and return to the one (Top) position then put her in 1st gear, remove it, then replace the camshaft just like you did. I'll also replace the tensioner with only 1x bolt tightened on the sprocket with the previous chain/sprocket position put back and then it should be good. The Foxxy video was also seemingly done this way. The thought of the clutch arm/spring issues I've seen makes me want to try it this way. Your thoughts? I do have the crank pin IF it doesn't go well I can reset it. Also, the chain and sprocket will not fall into the case if left but I'll do as you did with zip ties. And you don't need to reset the ECU. It's not an ECU, Sensor or change that requires it imho. Cheers, love your videos. You have a, wonderfully positive and humble disposition. 👌

[@tigerness5555]

I made my video to show how to do the job correctly. If I wasn’t making a video I would have done it differently 🤣

[@simonwalker7957]

Excellent video TN and a job well explained and videoed. If I was of a mind to carry this out on my Classic it would be this video I would use to guide me, thank you. I recently managed to obtain via the internet a copy of the service manual for this bike as mine is now due it’s 3k service and was looking for the page that describes the timing procedure even though I’d seen yours and others KZbin videos when I came across the page that describes the refitting of the cam, page 145. There is a warning box that says the rocker carrier bolts are one use and DO NOT reuse. Also when fitting the new ones that engine oil should be applied beforehand. I’ve no idea why they say this, perhaps Hitchcocks could advise? Watchers should note if you look carefully that the performance graph shown here that is taken from Hitchcocks site explains that the bike tested had the decat pipe and and replacement air filter cover fitted but with a standard air filter and exhaust, I’ve no idea if the results would be different if the bike was otherwise stock. Edit: Just to add to the confusion the manual explicitly says not to rotate the crank anti-clockwise! Page 143. Hitchcocks video is as yours. Maybe there’s a typo but I for one will consult my dealer to the correct procedure just to be safe.

[@tigerness5555]

Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍 I watched the Hitchcocks video a few times and found some parts were not very well filmed. I thought I could make a better video following exactly how they did the change. I also have a service manual that I managed to download. In my opinion it’s very poorly laid out and is fairly confusing at times. I do think that the crankshaft should be turned anti clockwise, this is the way it revolves when running. It’s also important to keep the front run of the cam chain tight allowing any slack at the rear to be taken up by the tensioner. Then what do I know, I’m not a mechanic 🤣

[@simonwalker7957]

I agree that the online manual doing the rounds is quite poor, I suspect it’s not the final draft. Your video is much better than Hitchcocks which is a credit to you; if I were to consider this mod id use yours for sure. I look forward to the next exciting instalment 🙂

[@rvanoop]

Great job Sir.Hows the performance now also is there any tappet sound?Mine ran close to 6000km still tappet sound is more even after adjustment.Also how you go that shine in engine case?

[@tigerness5555]

The performance of my bike is excellent now. The tappet sound hasn’t changed in any way, I’ll re-check them in a few hundred miles to ensure all is still within specification. As to my shiny engine, I simply wash when required and then spray with GT85. I’ve never polished the engine casings. Great to hear that you enjoyed my video 👍