PRI 2025: PBM Debuts Titanium Valves for High-RPM Racing

At the 2025 PRI Show, PBM introduced a new addition to its performance lineup: titanium valves designed for high-RPM racing applications. We caught up with Jack MacInnis from PBM to get the lowdown on what makes these lightweight valves stand out—and why serious racers are taking notice.

According to MacInnis, the primary advantage of titanium is simple: weight reduction. “They’re very light,” he said, “and that weight savings is critical in high-RPM engines.” Lighter valves reduce reciprocating mass in the valvetrain, allowing engines to rev higher and maintain stability without risking valve float—something stainless-steel valves can struggle with at extreme RPM.

PBM’s titanium valves aren’t intended for street-driven engines or applications where durability under everyday use is critical. Instead, they’re engineered for race-specific cylinder heads produced by PBM, including select big-block and small-block Chevy heads, as well as Ford platforms in some cases. While PBM’s stainless-steel valves cover a broader range of engines and applications, these titanium units are focused on high-performance, high-RPM competition.

MacInnis noted that the company is still relatively new to manufacturing titanium valves, but the goal is clear: provide racers with a lightweight, reliable option that complements PBM’s cylinder head lineup. By reducing valvetrain mass, these valves help maximize RPM potential, improve engine response, and maintain durability in the extreme conditions seen on the drag strip and road-race circuits. We all know how a large valve can really beat up the seat and the spring in some applications, so reducing weight can be huge.

While PBM doesn’t offer an extensive titanium valve line yet, they are focusing on quality and fitment for specific high-performance heads. This ensures racers get the performance benefits of titanium without sacrificing precision or reliability.

For engine builders chasing every last RPM and seeking an edge in valvetrain performance, PBM’s new titanium valves represent a thoughtful, purpose-built solution, showing that even in the age of big horsepower and advanced tech, sometimes lighter really is better.