The information you have about V4 engines may not be entirely accurate. V4 engines do exist and have been used in various applications, including motorcycles. However, they are relatively less common compared to other engine configurations like inline-four (I4) or V-twin engines. There are a few reasons for this:
Complexity and Cost: V4 engines are inherently more complex to design and manufacture compared to simpler engine configurations like I4 or V-twin engines. They require more components, including additional cylinders, cylinder heads, and crankshafts, which adds to the overall complexity and cost of production.
Packaging Constraints: V4 engines have a wider profile due to their arrangement of cylinders, which can pose challenges in terms of fitting them into a motorcycle's frame and maintaining optimal weight distribution. This can limit their use in certain motorcycle designs where space is a constraint.
Performance Considerations: While V4 engines can offer advantages in terms of smoothness and power delivery, other engine configurations, such as I4 engines, can provide similar performance characteristics at a lower cost and with simpler construction. As a result, manufacturers often prefer the more cost-effective options for mass production.
Market Demand: The demand for motorcycles equipped with V4 engines may be relatively lower compared to other engine configurations. Manufacturers typically focus their production on models that align with market trends and customer preferences, and if there is not sufficient demand for V4-powered motorcycles, they may prioritize other options.
Despite these factors, there are still notable motorcycles in the market that feature V4 engines, such as certain models from Honda, Aprilia, and Ducati. These motorcycles tend to be higher-end, offering premium performance and features, which can justify the increased complexity and cost associated with V4 engine production.