A single cylinder engine is the most basic piston engine configuration of an internal combustion engine. It is often used for motorcycles (a large four-stroke single is often colloquially known as a thumper) but has many uses in portable tools, garden machinery and has been used in cars and tractors. The Cox model engine is a well known miniature example.
Pros and cons
BMW R27 single-cylinder motorcycle engine
Single cylinder engines are simple and compact, and will normally deliver more power within a given envelope. However, they are prone to vibration, unless this is controlled with balance shafts. Rotating mass tends to be high, restricting sharp changes of speed and acceleration. Cooling is simpler than with multiple cylinders, potentially saving weight.
However, the large unbalanced reciprocating mass limits maximum engine speed and therefore overall power output. Thus this configuration is usually only seen in smaller engines.
Uses
Motorbike Horex "Regina" with one-cylinder-four-stroke-engine
Early automobiles and motorcycles were all single cylinder, as were engines for marine use. The configuration remains in widespread use in dirt bikes and is almost exclusively used in portable tools, and garden machinery such as lawn mowers.
Racing classes
Off-road
Street
Go-cart
References
External links
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