Folks;
Just a note from a lurker regarding some alternatives---

Most experimental pilots are aware of the Rotax 9XX series of engines.
High power to weight, good reliability (>1500 TBO), power in excess of
110 HP. The 912 is around 81 hp and can be upgraded to about 95 HP with
high comp pistons for about $1500. The 912 S/ULS is good for about 100
HP (for 5 minutes) and the 914 at about 115. There is also the Jabiru
engines that put out about 85 for the 2200, 120 for the 3300 and they
now have a 5500 with even more power. Both the above mentioned brands
are specifically designed for aircraft usage. The problem, for me, is
the high cost of the engines. I currently fly a 912 ULS and the
replacement cost for that engine looks kind of like this: Engine ~ $20K,
exhaust ~ $1K, motor mounts ~ $750, radiator and oil cooler ~ $2K, so
about $25K for a typical installation, not counting a prop. The 912 S
(certified) will handle an electric prop, costs more, the 914 I don't
even want to talk about. Jabiru tends to be about 20% less expensive.
Now, compare that with the following motorcycle engine link:

www.rotaryforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=16100Ron

which is talking about a 120 HP engine, about $4K new, + $1500 PSRU
adapter plate, + a Rotax C box (about 3K) and incidentals, coming in for
around $10K or so. Now before anyone turns the FLAME SWITCH = 1, let me
just say that I am perfectly aware of the cost of a Lyc or Connie
engine. I don't like those costs either. If one can work out the
problems with the Yamaha Genesis engine, a rebuild should not exceed
$4K, and that's only if you buy a new engine!
BTW, I am not proposing this type of engine as I don't know how it will
work out - sort of like the rotary engine issues. I just try to keep my
mind open.

-- Keith