1. Knowing that the new Honda V-Twin incorporates a number of design improvements that make the engine tougher, more compact, cleaner, more versatile and more powerful than the V-Twin models it replaces, what are the key features in each of these areas that contribute to the technologically-advanced design?
- Toughness:
The new V-Twin engine features Honda's legendary engine durability found across the entire Honda Engines lineup. A new push rod design with individual housing tubes adds to durability, and a new, industry-leading limited 3-year warranty on all V-Twin engines adds to worry-free operation. The engine is designed to work when it needs to and last as long as consumers have come to expect.
- Compact Design
How and why was cubic volume decreased in the new design and what is the benefit; does the decrease in cubic volume allow for an increased number of potential applications?
By offering more power in a smaller package, the new V-Twin engine is a great fit for an increased number of potential applications that can accommodate more power yet require a smaller-sized engine due to product configuration. The new V-Twin horizontal configuration models are smaller by 12 percent than the existing models they replace; vertical configurations enjoy a size reduction of approximately 10 percent.
- Cleaner Operation
The new V-Twin engines meet or exceed the strict standards of both CARB (California Air Resources Board) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) through 2011 and beyond, without the use of a catalyst. In addition, the V-Twin is a 50-state engine, allowing it to be sold everywhere in the United States.
- Improved Versatility
What is the improved throttle, choke and engine switch configuration, and how do Oil Alert® and the hour meter operate?
Models equipped with a control box can include a built-in throttle lever, choke lever, LED Oil Alert® display and hour meter.
- More Power
Increased compression ratio provides more power and engine efficiency in a smaller package. The increased compression ratio, coupled with improved engine cooling, result in even smoother and more reliable operation.
2. Are there different types of crank shaft variations for the new Honda V-Twin engines? What are they, how are they different and which variations are available on which models?
New V-Twin engines feature the same crank shaft variations as the current models: Q, V, B and T-types.
3. Why would one model incorporate a Q-type crankshaft and another model incorporate a V-type crankshaft?
Q-type, T-type and B-type crankshafts are straight-keyed, while the V-type crankshafts are tapered. These different variations in crankshaft correspond to the engine's end application. For example, products like generators require a tapered crankshaft to operate properly, whereas products such as pressure washers utilize a straight-keyed crankshaft.
4. What are some of the other design elements that are incorporated into the new V-Twin engine? Do some models have some of these features, but not others?
The V-Twin engine is one of the most powerful and most fuel efficient, yet most compact engines in its class. A two barrel, inner-vent carburetor provides more precise fuel metering for optimal fuel economy, while a multi- layer density gradient air filter captures dirt better, which also improves fuel economy.
5. One of the design features of the new Honda V-Twin engine is the Oil Alert® System and hour meter. What is it, how is it improved and how does it improve the performance and benefit the end user?
Horizontal shaft engines can come with an oil level switch or an oil pressure switch. Models equipped with a Honda control box also can benefit from the Oil Alert® system LED light and hour meter installed in the control box. Vertical shaft models come with the oil pressure switch. These features help to remind consumers to check or change their oil as a preventive measure against the development of oil sludge or serious engine damage.