When comparing the speed of a motorcycle and a car, several factors come into play that can make a motorcycle faster despite having fewer horsepower and cylinders compared to a car. Here are some reasons:
Power-to-Weight Ratio: Motorcycles typically have a significantly lower weight compared to cars. With less weight to propel, the power generated by the engine can have a more significant impact on acceleration and speed. Even if a car has more horsepower, the motorcycle's lighter weight allows it to achieve faster acceleration and higher top speeds.
Aerodynamics: Motorcycles generally have a more streamlined and aerodynamic design compared to most cars. This reduces air resistance, also known as drag, which can limit a vehicle's top speed. The reduced drag allows motorcycles to maintain higher speeds with less power.
Size and Maneuverability: Motorcycles are smaller and more compact than cars, allowing them to navigate through traffic and corners more easily. They can take advantage of their smaller size to find gaps and accelerate quickly, making them faster in certain situations.
Power Delivery: Motorcycles often have engines designed for high-revving performance. They may have a narrower powerband, meaning the engine delivers more power at higher RPMs. This characteristic allows motorcycles to accelerate quickly and reach higher speeds in a shorter amount of time, compensating for the lower horsepower compared to cars.
Traction and Tire Grip: Motorcycles have a higher power-to-tire contact patch ratio than cars. With two tires in contact with the road, the available traction and grip per unit of power are generally higher for motorcycles. This allows them to put the power down more effectively and accelerate more quickly.
It's important to note that these factors contribute to the general speed and acceleration advantages of motorcycles, but individual performance can vary greatly depending on the specific make, model, and engine configuration of both the motorcycle and the car being compared. Additionally, there are other variables such as rider/driver skill and experience, gearing, and road conditions that can influence the performance and speed of a vehicle.