The number of engine cylinders refers to the quantity of cylindrical metal components that guide the piston to perform linear reciprocating motion within the cylinder. The number and capacity of the cylinders also determine the engine's displacement. Because the inertia of a motorcycle is relatively smaller compared to that of a car, the number of cylinders and displacement of a motorcycle are also smaller.

The common number of cylinders in motorcycles includes single-cylinder, double-cylinder, triple-cylinder, four-cylinder and six-cylinder. Under the same displacement, the more cylinders there are, the smoother the power output will be, and the engine speed will rise faster, with stronger horsepower. Conversely, the fewer cylinders there are, the stronger the low-torque output will be.

Single cylinder

Advantages: Simple structure, low cost, light weight, small size, and more sufficient low-torque output under the same displacement.

Disadvantages: The vibration is relatively large and the horsepower output is relatively lower.

Representative model: KTM 390 DUKE

Double cylinder

Advantages: Simple structure, low cost, light weight, small size, and more sufficient low-torque output under the same displacement.

Disadvantages: The vibration is relatively large and the horsepower output is relatively lower.

Representative model: Kawasaki Ninja400

Three cylinders

Advantages: It combines the advantages of both two-cylinder and four-cylinder engines, with strong low-torque output and powerful power burst at high speeds.

Disadvantage: Three-cylinder engines have the advantages of both two-cylinder and four-cylinder engines, but none of these advantages can be fully exploited. Therefore, there are not many car manufacturers developing three-cylinder engines.

Representative model: Yamaha MT-09

Four cylinders

Advantages: Smooth power output, strong power burst at high RPM, and more dense sound.

Disadvantages: Heavy weight, high cost, and weak low-torque output.

Representative model: BMW S1000RR

Six cylinders

Advantages: The power is very smooth and the output power is very strong throughout the entire speed range.

Disadvantages: High cost and heavy weight.

Representative model: Honda GL1800 (Golden Wing)

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