There's more knowledge re: EJ257 = More built 257's around now.

A bored sleeved destroked CNC closed deck ej257 block, relined to 2.5L, 75mm crank using 48mm bearings and the longest ratio rod option possible is where its at....

You can spin to 9K if you order your EJ20 75mm crank with 48mm bearings as per Honda to hold the oil better. Likewise 75mm stroke for high revs, optional CNC close deck and definitely sleeve your bored EJ257 block. Some sexy head mods and your now making anyone's Cosworth look very average. :p

Alternately sleeve an EJ20G or EJ22T fully closed deck (or EJ207 semi) with dual thrust bearing conversion on your custom crank.

This "2.5's must be sleeved" talk is overrated, I have been in contact with Ron from Axis/Raw performance who builds these motors in his sleep.....

He advises that you only need sleeves if you are pushing over 30psi, in saying that he recommends, forgies, rod's etc...

cheers