No, motorcycles can have different numbers of cylinders depending on the design and intended purpose. While single-cylinder motorcycles do exist and are commonly referred to as "singles," motorcycles can also have two, three, four, or even more cylinders.
Here are some common configurations:
Single Cylinder: These motorcycles have a single cylinder in the engine. Single-cylinder engines are often used in smaller displacement motorcycles, off-road bikes, and some lightweight commuter or dual-sport motorcycles. They are known for their simplicity, light weight, and torquey characteristics.
Twin Cylinder: Twin-cylinder motorcycles have two cylinders arranged in a parallel (parallel-twin) or V-shaped (V-twin) configuration. This design offers a good balance between power and smoothness. Twin-cylinder engines are common in a wide range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, and adventure bikes.
Triple Cylinder: Motorcycles with three cylinders are often referred to as triples. Triple-cylinder engines are known for their smoothness, wide power delivery, and distinctive exhaust note. They are commonly found in sport touring bikes, naked bikes, and some adventure motorcycles.
Four Cylinder: Motorcycles with four cylinders are often called inline-fours or simply fours. These engines have four cylinders arranged in a row. Inline-four engines are renowned for their high-revving performance, smoothness, and power. They are commonly used in sport bikes, supersport bikes, and some touring motorcycles.
Apart from these configurations, there are also motorcycles with five, six, and even more cylinders, although they are relatively less common. The choice of engine configuration depends on factors such as desired performance, intended use, and manufacturer preferences.
It's worth noting that each engine configuration has its own unique characteristics, including power delivery, torque, weight distribution, and sound. Riders often have their own preferences based on their riding style, preferences, and the type of motorcycle experience they seek.