We've just fitted a new short motor, and that was tight, but as much due to the preservative wax as mich as anything.
Once we had lubed the bores and turned it over a few times, it was OK and felt tighter than usual but I wouldn't have said stiff.
Started up on Sunday last, done 135 miles, running on petrol and gas (Zavoli Multipoint) and it is fine. When you turn the key off, it stops fairly quickly so still a little tight.
Peter