Parilla · from 1953
Parilla 175 high-cam: history and buying advice
A clever engine: the camshaft sits high in the engine, with very short pushrods.
History
In 1953 came the 175 with the famous ‘high cam’. The camshaft was chain-driven and sat high in the timing case. That way only very short pushrods were needed, and the valves stood at an angle of 90 degrees. The engine (60 × 62 mm) produced 14.5 hp at 8200 rpm.
Larger versions later came from this engine, such as the 250 cc models. In America the high-cam became known through importer Cosmopolitan Motors of Philadelphia.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder, four-stroke, high camshaft (chain), 175 cc |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 60 × 62 mm |
| Power | 14.5 hp at 8200 rpm |
| Valves | 90 degrees, short pushrods |
| From | 1953 |
What to check when buying
- Listen to the cam chain and check the tensioner.
- Check that engine and frame belong together; engines have often been swapped.
- Check the oil lines and the oil level.
- Ask a club which parts are still available.
SourcesOld Bike Mag: Parilla (English)Cybermotorcycle: Parilla (English)