OK I'll throw my love for the jackshaft out there as well. 2 bikes. One a 97cc doodle. One a clone. The little bike tops out at 31,not bad for the little 97cc. Why did I choose a jackshaft for the clone? Easier gear changes, and cheaper. I want chains as short as I can make them. The motor has spun 6400rpm so far. The chain is flying. Short chains stretch less, deflect less, and should be safer. There's also something about running gear reduction or opposite there of. I like the way they wind up. I have another bike that has a long chain. It's thrown the chain twice, and eaten one guide roller. This bike is a recent billet overhaul project and I'll be watching the chain for sure.