Two Stroke Technology
by Tim Parsons
(Davis Junction, IL USA)
So, a two stroke engine is cheaper, lighter and more powerful and has a better power to weight ratio. The problem is, in my opinion, the two stroke hasn't seen a drastic increase in technology. It seems that the short time the 4-stroke has been into production, it has seen technological advances way beyond two strokes.
I have been tinkering with motorcycles - two strokes - for over 30 years now. I was out of the scene for many years due to raising a family. When I got back into it, the only difference engine wise, was the addition of a power valve and maybe a TPS. How come Ski-doo, who makes a fantastic engine, seems to be on the cutting edge of two stroke technology? Are outboard motors that more advanced than high competition racing engines?
OK... I missed the addition of being water cooled. What about adding a turbo to a two stroke? Can it be done? I have seen massive HP increases in 2.0 liter motors that beat the pants off an 8 cylinder motor. It seems the two stroke has been leap-frogged over and it would be a shame to see it fade away to extinction.
The bottom line is that four strokes are easier to ride. I am positive that with power valves, direct injection systems and a tuned exhaust that uses resonance technology, a two stroke would be just as easy to ride as a four stroke, and would blow the doors off a same size four stroke engine.
Our only hope for survival is a breakthrough in technology and a market demand to purchase the best engine ever invented... a two stroke combustion engine. Except for a Tesla Turbine Engine, but that's another subject.
