A Dream Driver: The CBR1000 and Miata Fusion

The romance between lightweight cars and high-revving motorcycle engines has captivated car enthusiasts for decades. One of the best representations of this dream is the marriage of the Honda CBR1000 engine and the Mazda Miata—an unlikely pairing that has sparked both curiosity and excitement in the automotive community. Reed Stormzand, known for his YouTube channel Reed Make Car, has taken this dream to heart and shared the intricacies of his project in the latest episode of Tuned In. While the idea of swapping a motorcycle engine into a sports car may sound exhilarating, the reality of the journey is filled with challenges and valuable lessons.

Understanding the Benefits of a Motorcycle Engine Swap

The Miata, often hailed as one of the most approachable sports cars, becomes even more intriguing when powered by the CBR1000's engine, which revs to a staggering 13,000 RPM. As noted in various automotive conversations, the advantage of using a motorcycle engine lies in its weight-to-power ratio, delivering a thrilling driving experience. Reed's Miata achieves 160 horsepower at 11,500 RPM with peak torque at 80 lb-ft, allowing a sensation that’s stunningly faster and more visceral compared to a stock Miata.

The Journey of Tuning and Upgrades: A Learning Experience

Transforming a Miata into a motorcycle-powered beast involves more than just swapping the engine. Reed recounts the process of learning how to tune the vehicle. Starting with the Miata's original setup and evolving to the CBR1000 engine, he provides insights into the complexities of engine management and tuning adjustments. For enthusiasts looking to learn, his journey emphasizes the importance of diving into hands-on projects and embracing mistakes as learning opportunities—a key message for anyone interested in high performance parts for cars.

Challenges With Integrating a Motorcycle Engine

Despite the excitement, challenges loom large. From ensuring the gearbox can handle the immense power to the wiring complexities associated with integrating motorcycle technology into automotive environments, Reed’s insights shed light on the detailed planning and execution required for such projects. His experiences resonate with many DIY car builders and serve as a reminder that while the concept may be thrilling, the execution requires meticulous attention to detail.

The Driving Experience: More Than Just Numbers

How does it feel to drive a Miata with a motorcycle engine? Perspectives vary; Reed notes that while the incredible power and revs are enthralling, the sheer joy of driving can’t be solely quantified by speed. He describes the experience as uniquely thrilling, different from any conventional sports car, as the integration of a motorcycle engine transforms the dynamics entirely, allowing for thrilling acceleration that’s unforgettable. Whenever car enthusiasts dream of fast cars with good fuel economy, the CBR1000 Miata often comes to mind as a benchmark for performance.

Conclusion: The Future for Reed and His Projects

Reed’s ongoing projects extend beyond the CBR1000 Miata; his future plans include further modifications and new builds, like the FA20 for his BRZ. His story is a testament to the importance of creativity and innovation in the automotive world, showcasing how one can turn a passion into a captivating journey that engages viewers and inspires new builders.

For those curious about diving into similar projects, Reed’s experiences show that every spark of inspiration can lead to epic results—with enough persistence and passion, any enthusiast can create their dream machine.