Bore vs Stroke: Which is Better for Engine Performance?

TLDRFind out whether it's better to have an engine with cylinders with a large bore or a long stroke. We explore the differences in power, efficiency, and burn duration to determine optimal performance.

Key insights

⚙️A larger bore relative to stroke length enables higher RPM and more power.

🔥Long stroke engines have less surface area and shorter burn durations, leading to higher efficiency.

🌪️Shorter bore engines allow for larger valves and increased airflow for improved horsepower.

🌡️Long stroke engines reduce heat rejection and maximize useful combustion work, enhancing efficiency.

Shorter bore engines have shorter burn durations, ensuring faster flame travel and increased efficiency.

Q&A

What is bore and stroke in engine terminology?

Bore refers to the width of a cylinder, while stroke is the distance the piston travels perpendicularly to the bore.

Which is better for horsepower: large bore or long stroke?

A larger bore relative to stroke allows for higher RPM and more power due to increased airflow and larger valves.

What are the advantages of a long stroke engine?

Long stroke engines have less surface area, shorter burn durations, and reduced heat rejection, leading to higher efficiency.

Why do short bore engines have improved horsepower?

Engines with shorter bore designs allow for larger valves and increased airflow, enhancing horsepower output.

How do long stroke engines enhance efficiency?

Long stroke engines maximize useful combustion work by reducing heat rejection and increasing pressure at top dead center.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the topic of bore vs stroke and its impact on engine performance.

02:59Explaining the relationship between bore, stroke, and an engine's displacement.

10:22Analyzing the effects of bore and stroke on engine power and how higher RPM can be achieved with a shorter stroke length.

14:03Discussing the benefits of long stroke engines, including increased efficiency and reduced heat rejection.

20:00Exploring the advantages of shorter bore engines, such as larger valves and improved airflow for enhanced horsepower.

27:45Diving into the importance of burn duration and how shorter bore engines result in faster flame travel for increased efficiency.

32:50Conclusion and summary of the key insights on bore vs stroke for engine performance.