Im currently in the process of stroking my b16 to 2.12L with the Crower Stroker Kit.(http://www.crower.com/cat/import/honda/stroker.shtml)

I need to order the kit soon; but I cant make up my mind on the compression ratio. The mechanic tells me that 11:1 is pushing it. But how can that be pushing it if the USDM iTR is 11:1. The machine shop that is sleeving my block, doing some machine work as well as installing the stroker kit explained to me that if I were to go any higher (11:1+)my bottom end will not last as long if I were to go a little lower. On the other hand a local POS speed shop told me that they have hatchbacks with compression ratios up to 13:5:1 on 92 octane gas (highest you can get up here in WA)....Over all Im stuck; can someone fill me in on these compression ratios and extactly what I'm getting into. This car is going to be a daily driver and I want to get AT least 75,000k-100,00k out of the motor. So what is my best bet. 12:1 or 11:1. Im going NA and plan to do proper work to the head. Im just focusing on the bottom end first. Thanks guys

 

I'd say go with 11 to 1. Although 12 to 1 would be possible also. The general difference in power between 1 number in CR is 8 -12 HP. So the difference in HP would be around 10 HP difference between 11/1 and 12/1. Other mods done to the engine would of course change this theory. And dont forget if you're doing head work down the road, like a thinner head gasket, that will increase the CR even more so 11/1 is plenty, IMO.