Suzuki Files Unique Engine Patent

Suzuki Files Unique Engine Patent

Suzuki Motorcycles recently filed a patent for a very unique motorcycle engine configuration. In patent application drawings that have been released, a single cylinder setup appears to be indicated, with the cylinder heads just above horizontal and positioned up close to the front forks. According to a report by Cycle World, the configuration could be used for singles or multi-cylinder inline engines. The cylinders appear to be tucked up between the frame rails, running parallel with them.

The configuration puts the transmission lower in the cradle, and the crankcase closer to the rear of the bike. Suzuki apparently has been experimenting with the design in an effort to shorten wheelbase and add longer swingarms. Cycle World noted the setup could reduce a change in the motorcycle’s geometry when the suspension flexes. The configuration also shifts the center of gravity closer to the true center of the motorcycle.

Web Bike World notes that this design calls for new locations of other components such as the airbox, battery, and fuel tank. With a fantastic history of innovation, Suzuki should have no problem resolving these issues. There is no word yet as to whether the design will ever see the light of day in a production bike. Suzuki is clearly unafraid to think outside the box, in this age of a rapidly changing motorcycle industry.

Rob Brooks