Definition: Components that open and close to allow air-fuel mixture in and exhaust gases out of the cylinder.
Examples: Intake and exhaust valves.
Glossary Category: Technology Features
Valve Cover
Definition: A protective cover that sits atop the engine’s cylinder head, sealing the valve train components and preventing oil leaks.
Examples: Aluminum valve covers on performance engines.
Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Definition: A technology in internal combustion engines that adjusts the timing of valve opening and closing to improve performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.
Examples: Honda’s VTEC system, Toyota’s VVT-i.
Spark Plug
Definition: A device that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber by producing a spark.
Examples: NGK spark plugs used in various motorcycle engines.
Starter Motor
Definition: An electric motor that initiates the engine’s operation by turning the crankshaft until the engine starts.
Examples: Electric starter motors on most modern motorcycles.
Radiator
Definition: A heat exchanger used to cool the engine coolant in liquid-cooled motorcycles, maintaining optimal engine temperature.
Examples: Sportbikes like the Yamaha R1 use radiators for engine cooling.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
Definition: A measure of how many times the engine’s crankshaft completes a full rotation each minute, indicating engine speed.
Examples: An engine idling at 1,000 RPM; redline at 12,000 RPM.
Piston
Definition: A cylindrical component that moves up and down within the engine’s cylinder, converting the energy from combustion into mechanical motion.
Examples: High-performance motorcycles may use forged pistons for increased strength and durability.
Muffler
Definition: A component of the exhaust system designed to reduce the noise produced by the engine’s exhaust gases.
Examples: Aftermarket mufflers can alter the sound and performance of a motorcycle’s exhaust system.
Ignition Switch
Definition: A switch that activates the vehicle’s main electrical systems and starts the engine.
Examples: Key-operated ignition switches in motorcycles.
