The biggest innovation that OS did was to twist the cylinder a bit, so the wrist pin would not hang up on the ports. Other companies at the time were using a G clip, which was a more expensive solution, although they let go sometimes. I think OS had a lot of testing done mostly to save $$, as well as 'not to lose' performance. The LA series I have noticed really can not be improved upon with normal upgrades like bigger carb, more compression etc. They got rid of the boost port, and it saved money, and gave 'the same' performance, squared the head, and cyl. to save weight and $$$. Yes, the R&D is a cost, but pays off in savings later. I think Rossi deserves more credit than OS, as there was less sales to make up for all their effort. The Chinese motors, well, most of the savings are the pay rate, and the artificial money they set up. CNC machines have lowered the cost astronomically for any country that makes stuff. It used to be 14 hours to one for a CNC vs conventional machines. I would guess it is double now. I will stick to the 'overpriced' OS stuff, but give them credit for the warranty, or at least thinking about it. Oh, yes, I think higher nitro would work in a lot of motors if shims were used, and think they should have a variety included in the box. Some are set up too safe, because of warranty work, and some blow plugs and get a bad rep.