Motorcycles are often celebrated for their speed, agility, and the sense of freedom they provide. However, not all motorcycles are created equal. Some models, despite their outward appeal, have been plagued by engine problems that have led to their downfall. Here are five of the worst motorcycle engines ever made, notorious for their unreliability and propensity for failure.
1. BMW K100 Inline-Four Engine
The BMW K100, a product of the 1980s, was a bike that promised much but delivered little due to its flawed powerplant. The inline-four engine of the K100 series was plagued by a significant flaw: plastic timing gear failures. These failures could cause sudden breakdowns, turning an enjoyable ride into a frustrating experience. This issue was so prevalent that it has earned the K100 a spot on many lists of the worst motorcycle engines.
2. Suzuki RE5 Rotary Engine
The 1970s saw the introduction of the Suzuki RE5, the only Japanese production motorcycle to utilize a Wankel rotary engine. However, this unique feature turned out to be its downfall. The rotary engine was mechanically complex, and its numerous subsystems made for a heavy motorcycle. The RE5 was also plagued by apex seal wear and fuel inefficiency, issues that were only exacerbated with wear. These problems were so severe that the RE5 has been included in several compilations of the worst motorcycles ever made.
3. Moto Guzzi V7 V-Twin Engine
The Moto Guzzi V7, despite its classic appeal, was another motorcycle that suffered from engine issues. The V7’s V-twin engine from the 1970s had valve and oiling problems that led to frequent seizures. These issues were often overlooked due to the bike’s initial teething problems, masking the long-term unreliability of the engine. This has led to the V7 being featured in analyses of underrated motorcycles with hidden defects.
4. Kawasaki H1/H2 Triple Engine
Racer Jody Weisel has recounted his experiences with the Kawasaki H1/H2 Triple, a motorcycle he raced in the 1970s. The bike’s two-stroke triple engine was prone to piston slap and overheating during high-rev competition. These issues were so severe that they led to catastrophic engine failures during races. Weisel’s experiences with the H1/H2 Triple have been documented in his recounting of the worst bikes he ever raced.
5. Ford Pinto-Inspired Shared Components in Early Custom Bikes
The 1970s also saw the use of Ford Pinto-inspired shared components in custom motorcycles. These adaptations of Pinto-era engine tech resulted in issues such as vapor lock and head gasket blowouts. The problems were so severe that they have drawn parallels to the worst automotive flops, earning these custom bikes a spot on the list of motorcycles with the worst engines.
In conclusion, while motorcycles can offer a thrilling ride, it’s important to remember that not all bikes are built the same. Some, like the ones listed above, have been hampered by engine issues that have tarnished their reputations. Whether it’s the BMW K100’s plastic timing gear failures, the Suzuki RE5’s complex and inefficient rotary engine, the Moto Guzzi V7’s valve and oiling issues, the Kawasaki H1/H2 Triple’s piston slap and overheating problems, or the vapor lock and head gasket blowouts of early custom bikes using Ford Pinto-inspired components, these motorcycles serve as reminders that a good engine is crucial to a good ride.
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