Consider A Single-Cylinder Engine Motorcycle For Off-Road Fun

6 August 2017
 Categories: , Blog

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When considering a motorcycle for sale, it is important to take into account the engine type. One of the most popular engines in a bike is the single-cylinder. They provide many benefits to the average driver, particularly those who love going off road and in the dirt.

The Benefits And Disadvantages Of A Single-Cylinder Engine

A single-cylinder engine on a motorcycle is the simplest possible model type This simplicity is one of the major benefits of this type of bike, especially when going off road. It is a very light motor that is simple to repair, easy to maintain, and contains high levels of bottom-end torque. All of these benefits make a single-cylinder engine a common type in most dirt bikes.

The only major weaknesses of these engine types are that they are typically very bumpy to drive and have a lower power-to-weight ratio. This means it takes more power to get a person going. That said, they are still a great choice for any motorcycle enthusiastic who is looking to take their bike off-road as much as they take it on the road.

Why They Are Great In Dirt

Rough-and-tumble off-road motorcycles typically have single-cylinder engines because they are easier to repair and maintain. They also have fewer parts to damage, meaning it is easy to go wild in the dirt and even take a few spills without damaging the bike. However, single-cylinder engines have a high-degree of traction and low-end torque for easier driving control.

Before going off-road with a motorcycle, though, it is a good idea to break in the engine to ensure it is running at its optimal rate. This simple task is something that any motorcycle owner can do on their own and with very little effort.

Breaking It In Before Going Off-Road

Breaking in a motorcycle's engine is as simple as avoiding high speeds for the first 500 miles of the motorcycle's life. Drivers also need to keep from sharp starts and stops to avoid straining the bike. It is also important to change the oil and filter at 500 and 1,500 miles. Simple maintenance likes this helps keep the engine running smoothly.

At this point, the motorcycle's engine should be pretty ready for off-road racing. Try it out on slight inclines and small valleys to see if it struggles. If it does, more time needs to be taken breaking in the engine. If the engine never seems to adjust or continues to struggle on hills and inclines, it may need to be taken to a high-quality mechanic.

By fully understanding these simple steps, a person can buy a motorcycle that is perfect for off road driving. When driving it on the road, it is important to keep it clean so that it looks presentable.