A tuned pipe will work if the exhaust open degrees is more than 150° crank angle. Less, and it will be a nice muffler, more angle, and it will give you better power PROVIDED you tune the pipe well.
Hmm.. transfer porting angle should not be too large as well. You'll need at least 20° blowdown. (angle between exhaust open and transfer open)
If the above is acadabra for you, don't bother. Follow your heart, and don't expect miracles.