Pinch is relative to the particular racer.I like the motors I use now but dont like the powerband untill more than 2 gallons. If your motor will tune & hold it pinch is not a problem just a style. On the otherhand v-specs dont feel that good to me ater 2 gallons & I would consider a pinch after 3 gallons. Its all in how a motor makes you feel not the actuall performance because there are no dogs now adays. Where I race & with my humidity levels & then temeratures I run in My v-spec was very happy between 190 & 220 deg,again with my pipe & my clutch with the way I drive at my track. I do see the v-spec guys claiming an average of 210 no matter where & how they race. I would shoot for there depending on how you like your motor but as mentiond replace bearings & rods very often(compared to the motors I run) or you will be buying a crank soon. I would say 3 gallon rebuilds may get your crank into the 10 gallon or mor range.I wasnt so lucky with mine but I loved it before it died.