best size engines for a cafe build

[revnfool]

since modern bikes tend to be huge compared to the past offerings, what do you consider to be the best size engine for a cafe build?

[veloracermike]

This should also be broken down to number of cylinders.  If it's a twin or a single I'd have to go with 600-650.  4's I'm partial to smaller bore bikes like the 350-550.

[revnfool]

good point about the # of cylinders...that is also a major part of the past considering that most bikes back in the day were purchased as daily economical transportation and were usually 250-350cc singles. I am guessing here but I would imangine that alot of those were the early cafe builds. list your preference.

[Hoosier Daddy]

"If a little is good... a lot has got to be better!"
LOL, one of my favorite sarcastic lines. Used like when it comes to glue and bondo but applies for displacement also. Now do you mean actually dropping a dime into the juke box, jumping on your bike and flyin hell bent to another Cafe' and back before the 45 is over? Or what is commonly used today with a custom parts list a mile long available to make it easy?
Honestly, you will get a wide variety of oppinions. Personally, I want a 500 single next, built reminisant of the BSA Gold Star or Norton Manx. Verticle twins in the 500-650 range were the common ones back in the day, but then you got the 750 Nortons...Now days 350 twins are favored. They were light, compact, easy to toss around and common... parts galor

[beachcomber]

Yes I agree on the capacity argument.

I've been through all the possibilities and loved them all ...................

Currently in love with 1000 Vee Twin Yamaha's - reminiscent of Vinncent - without the aggro or cost !