Engines & Styles
As well as the style and appearance of the bike different engine configurations offer a variety of characteristics. Some people prefer in-line fours and others won't feel at home on anything but V-twins. Much of an engine's character comes from the number of cylinders.
Types of Engine
Singles |
Twins |
Triples |
Fours |
Fairing or No Fairing?
Fairings do three jobs. They keep the weather off the rider, they help
stop road muck plastering the engine and they improve the aerodynamics
of the motorcycle. That's why all high-speed sportsbikes have them.
If you plan to do long journeys then it's well worth considering a motorcycle
with a fairing because its far more relaxing than having to brace yourself
against the wind for hours on end but some people prefer to have the motorcycle
engine on show.
Chain/Shaft or Belt Drive?
Most motorcycle's have the power delivered to the rear wheel using a
chain. Chains require lubrication and tension adjustment about every 500
Km or so, this depends on usage and the weather and can be a chore.
Some riders prefer bikes with a shaft drive which is totally enclosed
and requires no maintenance just oil changes every 20000 Km or so. Shaft
drives are not found on sports bikes because of their weight and the affect
they have on handling but are popular on bikes designed for high mileage
like tourers. B.M.W have embraced the shaft drive on nearly all their
motorcycle's , weight reduction is an ongoing focus for B.M.W with lighter
and lighter motorbikes being made every year.
Belt drive is also becoming increasingly popular with manufacturers due
to fact that its nearly maintenance free. In general it does not require
attention for at least 50,000 Km!