Merch engines are aftermarket big-bore V-twin aftermarket engines for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The company offers five different engine configurations with displacements of 100-120”. These high-performance power sources are rated at 90-125 HP depending on the model.
If you want to find out more about these amazing engines, this post is for you.
We at PowerSportsGuide have compiled all you need to know into this Merch engine review!
What is a Merch Engine?
Merch engines are high-performance aftermarket V-twins manufactured by the Canadian Merch Motors.
These “Big Block” power mills are designed to be upgrades for worn-out Harley Davidson engines. Therefore, they fit all stock and aftermarket Twin Cam and Evolution HD chassis.
The driving force behind Merch Motors is Gerry Merchant, an obsessed designer, innovator, and patent holder.
The company services, rebuilds, designs, and manufactures big-inch motorcycle engines of the highest possible quality. They also sell performance motorcycle parts and complete upgrade kits.
Whether you are in need of a service or looking for a new engine, Merch Motors can help you out!
Where are Merch Engines Built?
Merch engines are designed and manufactured in Canaan Forks, New Brunswick, Canada.
Merch Engine Reviews
Merch currently offers five different engine configurations, including:
- Merch 100 Stage I: 100 cu in / 1643 CC, 90 HP
- Merch 100 Stage II: 100 cu in / 1643 CC, 100 HP
- Merch 120 Stage I: 120 cu in / 1976 CC, 110 HP
- Merch 120 Stage II: 120 cu in / 1976 CC, 117 HP
- Merch 120 Stage III: 120 cu in / 1976 CC, 125 HP
Each of these units provides plenty of power, so they can be a worthy replacement for your tired stock engine or act as the base of a custom-build project
Let’s drill into the details and talk about these high-performance Big Block motorcycle engines in detail!
Merch 100 Stage I Engine
Merch 100 Stage I is the entry-level engine option in the lineup. Thus, this is the cheapest Merch engine available!
This power source features a twin cam configuration and a heavy-duty bottom end borrowed from the 120” Merch family.
Thanks to these features, the 100 Stage I delivers excellent performance along with the highest level of durability and reliability.
The key specifications of this Merch engine are as follows:
- DISPLACEMENT: 100 cu in / 1643 CC
- HORSEPOWER @ REAR WHEEL: 90 HP
- TORQUE @ REAR WHEEL: 98 FT.LBS.
- BORE: 3.875”
- STROKE: 4.250”
- COMPRESSION: 9:7:1
- PISTON TYPE: FORGED – FLAT TOP
- VALVE SIZE: 1.90 INT / 1.610 EX
- CAM: MP 56 – 0.560” LIFT / 248◦ DUR.
Merch 100 Stage II Engine
As the name suggests, the Merch 100 Stage II is a more advanced variation of the 100 Stage I. It comes with a higher lift cam and ported heads, which ensure an extra 10 HP and 11 ft-lbs.
The manufacturer recommends this engine for riders who are looking for a little extra boost but don’t need the performance of the larger 120” engine.
Specifications:
- DISPLACEMENT: 100 cu in / 1643 CC
- HORSEPOWER @ REAR WHEEL: 100 HP
- TORQUE @ REAR WHEEL: 107 FT. LBS.
- BORE: 3.875”
- STROKE: 4.250”
- COMPRESSION: 9:7:1
- PISTON TYPE: FORGED – FLAT TOP
- VALVE SIZE: 1.90 INT / 1.610 EX
- CAM: MP 72 – 0.600” LIFT / 264◦ DUR.
Merch 120 Stage I Engine
The 120 Stage I is considered the smallest brother in the 120” Merch family.
It produces a ton of low-end torque along with the best durability. Merch Motors recommends this engine for big riders and heavy bikes in which engine power is always a big concern.
Just like any engine in this class, the 120 Stage I fits all aftermarket and stock bike frames.
Specifications:
- DISPLACEMENT: 120 cu in / 1976 CC
- HORSEPOWER @ REAR WHEEL: 110 HP
- TORQUE @ REAR WHEEL: 125 FT. LBS.
- BORE: 4.250”
- STROKE: 4.250”
- COMPRESSION: 9:8:1
- PISTON TYPE: FORGED – FLAT TOP
- VALVE SIZE: 1.940 INT / 1.610 EX
- CAM: MP 72 – 0.600” LIFT / 264◦ DURATION
Merch 120 Stage II Engine
Thanks to its higher lift cam and ported heads, the Merch 120 Stage II produces 7 HP more than its Stage I counterpart. If you are looking for a little extra punch, you can’t go wrong with this engine configuration.
Specifications:
- DISPLACEMENT: 120 cu in / 1976 CC
- HORSEPOWER @ REAR WHEEL: 117 HP
- TORQUE @ REAR WHEEL: 130 FT. LBS.
- BORE: 4.250”
- STROKE: 4.250”
- COMPRESSION: 9:8:1
- PISTON TYPE: FORGED – FLAT TOP
- VALVE SIZE: 1.940 INT / 1.610 EX
- CAM: MP 72 – 0.600” LIFT / 264◦ DURATION
Merch 120 Stage III Engine
The most powerful Merch engine is arguably the 120 Stage III. Compared to the base 120 Stage I, this power source comes with many advanced features, including:
- Higher compression ratio
- Larger intake and exhaust valves
- Ported heads
- High lift camshaft
These performance upgrades ensure a whopping performance of 125 HP with 135 ft-lbs torque. Keeping safety in mind, the manufacturer recommends a heavy-duty powertrain for this engine!
Specifications:
- DISPLACEMENT: 120 cu in / 1976 CC
- HORSEPOWER @ REAR WHEEL: 125 HP
- TORQUE @ REAR WHEEL: 135 FT. LBS.
- BORE: 4.250”
- STROKE: 4.250”
- COMPRESSION: 10:5:1
- PISTON TYPE: FORGED – FLAT TOP
- VALVE SIZE: 2.020 INT / 1.610 EX
- CAM: MP 58 – 0.6516” LIFT / 256◦ DURATION
Merch Engine Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specifications of Merch engines into one chart:
| Model | Displ. (cu in) | Displ. (cc) | HP | Torque (ft.lbs.) | Bore (“) | Stroke (“) | Compression |
| Merch 100 Stage I | 100 | 1643 | 90 | 98 | 3.875 | 4.250 | 9:7:1 |
| Merch 100 Stage II | 100 | 1643 | 100 | 107 | 3.875 | 4.250 | 9:7:1 |
| Merch 120 Stage I | 120 | 1976 | 110 | 125 | 4.250 | 4.250 | 9:8:1 |
| Merch 120 Stage II | 120 | 1976 | 117 | 130 | 4.250 | 4.250 | 9:8:1 |
| Merch 120 Stage III | 120 | 1976 | 125 | 135 | 4.250 | 4.250 | 10:5:1 |
Disclaimer: These charts are for informational purposes only! For more information, please check the official factory manuals!
Takeaways – FAQs About Merch Engines
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most frequent questions about Merch engines!
What Size Motors does Merch Make?
Merch currently offers 100” and 120” engines with some performance stage packages.
How Much Horsepower Does a Merch Engine Have?
The HP ratings of Merch engines range from 90 up to 125 HP. To be more specific, the HP ratings for each Merch engine are as follows:
- Merch 100 Stage I: 90 HP
- Merch 100 Stage II: 100 HP
- Merch 120 Stage I: 110 HP
- Merch 120 Stage II: 117 HP
- Merch 120 Stage III: 125 HP
Which Merch Engine is the Most Powerful?
The most powerful Merch engine is the 120 Stage III rated at 125 HP and 135 lb-ft torque.
Does Merch do Engine Rebuilds?
Yes, besides selling complete engines, Merch Motors offers various services and complete engine rebuilds.
Are Merch Engines Made in the USA?
No, Merch engines are designed and built in Canaan Forks, New Brunswick, Canada.
Is Merch a Harley Engine?
Contrary to popular belief, Merch engines are not made by Harley-Davidson. Instead, Merch is an aftermarket engine brand that offers high-performance V-twin engines for Harley-Davidsons and custom motorcycles.
How do You Know Which Merch Engine You Have?
You can identify a Merch engine based on the serial number stamped on the side of the case. (Example: FATSO 5058). Once you’ve located the number it’s recommended that you call the manufacturer, so they can help you identify your engine.
Is Merch Still in Business?
To the great delight of performance-minded riders, Merch Motors is back in business!
The company currently offers three different engines with displacements of 100” and 120”. You can read more about them and contact the manufacturer here.
Are Merch Engines Any Good?
Yes, Merch engines have built a reputation for reliability, durability, and great power!
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