Motorcycles and bikes are typically referred to by their engine displacement, expressed in cubic centimeters (cc) or liters, rather than horsepower (HP), because engine displacement is a more direct measure of the engine's size and capacity.
The engine displacement, or CC rating, represents the total volume of all the cylinders in the engine. It provides an indication of the engine's overall size and power potential. Generally, a higher CC rating indicates a larger engine with the potential for more power and torque output.
Horsepower, on the other hand, is a unit of power that represents the rate at which work is done. It is derived from a combination of factors, including engine displacement, efficiency, and other variables. While horsepower is a measure of an engine's performance, it can be influenced by various factors such as engine design, tuning, and additional components like turbochargers or superchargers.
CC ratings provide a more straightforward and consistent measure across different engines and manufacturers, allowing for easier comparison and understanding of a motorcycle's potential power. However, it's important to note that the relationship between engine displacement (CC) and horsepower (HP) is not a direct correlation. Different engine designs and technologies can produce varying horsepower outputs from the same displacement, so it's not possible to determine the exact horsepower output solely based on the engine displacement.
It's also worth mentioning that while CC rating provides a general indication of a motorcycle's power potential, other factors such as weight, aerodynamics, gearing, and overall bike design also influence the actual performance on the road. Thus, it's important to consider a combination of factors, including both CC rating and horsepower, when evaluating a motorcycle's performance capabilities.