How Does a Supercharger Work on a Motorcycle?

Superchargers are used to increase the power output of engines.

Internal combustion engines convert chemical energy into kinetic energy by burning a fuel with oxygen; motorcycles are no exception. A supercharger feeds more oxygen into the cylinders where the combustion occurs, resulting in a more thorough burning of the fuel and more power from the engine.

Principle

The supercharger uses a compressor to draw far more air into the cylinders of the motor than would enter them at normal atmospheric pressure (as in the case of a carburetor or fuel injection system). There, the higher partial pressure of oxygen allows the fuel to burn hotter and more completely, resulting in more of the chemical energy of the fuel being converted to kinetic energy in the moving parts of the engine.

Mechanics

The compressor has to be powered in order to function. It is usually connected directly to the drive shaft of the engine (in motorcycles that have a drive shaft), or via a belt or chain in more conventionally driven motorcycles.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Superchargers increase the power output of your motorcycle's engine, resulting in greater top speeds and acceleration. Some of the drawbacks include the greater weight of motorcycles with superchargers, and the cost involved of purchasing and installing one.

References

• Turbo Whistler: How Does a Supercharger Work?