"i'm also curious about how strong it is compared to the sub 2.5.
eisenhower tunnel at 60 mph is my goal."

I've come up that pitch at 55 in 2nd in my current ride. I had 225/70-16's
that are 28.4" tall (diameter) so that changed the gearing so much, that was
the prime factor, not the motor (TIICO). Interested to see how my current
Nokian's at 27" will affect such ascents. Just my guess: the 2.5 or
TIICO-type engine will pull those kinds of grades quicker than the "boxer"
but that will depend greatly on the "other factors" such as wheel/tire size
changes if you make any.

Bob Stevens
'87 Westy Syncro TIICO
"Passion Fruit"