Supercharged nonsense

Some are calling for superchargers on smaller bikes in pursuit of efficiency. I ride a Suzuki GSX650F, the faired bandit, a commuter bike or whatever detrimental adjective anyone wishes. A mere 98bhp claimed and a top speed of around double the speed limit. The only increased efficiency it could benefit from is better fuel consumption. For which I recommend my old fashioned Triumph Trophy TR6R bought new in 1960. A pushrod engine with only 46bhp, measured at the tyre. Top speed was around 110mph, petrol consumption averaged out at 50mpg, but on one 286-mile winter journey it exceeded 100mpg. A 1937 bike I owned had a side valve engine and had a top speed around 55mph but fuel consumption averaged 80mpg. Doubtless, younger men who have never owned similar machines when in good condition will query the figures but it remains that long-stroke and slow-revving makes for good fuel economy while high-compression, short-stroke, multi-valve engines produce high power, high speed, and high fuel consumption. Mike Baker, St Austell