Mike Stark - New ZO6 (LS7) 12deg. heads & valves?

[67RS502]

I just read that the new Z06 427SB (LS7) motor has 2.20 intake valve,
which is big for GM, (even tho they did bump the cubes by 80), since they've
been using small 2.00 / 1.55s in the LS1s, the bore isnt that big - I think it was
around 4.135 which isnt as good as the original, but I'm sure the valve is positioned
well and also its a 12deg. head.
My question is why such a large valve, or really - there must be some power in
it for them to go with such a large valve right? So what are the benefits, specifically
in a mild street motor like the new one? Anyone know any specifics about the new SL7?
and the heads? I'm guessin that the cross section cant be real big, so why the big valve?
How would a small cross section and large valve work well together?

[Mike Stark]

I haven't heard much about the new stuff yet. I would think the heads would respond well to the big valve. I wouldn't doubt it has to do a lot with spec racing as well. Many orgs only allow you orginal manufacturer sizes. This would allow them to trump the competition. I'm only speculating though. The valve sounds larger than it needs to be, but I'm sure the engineers did their homework.