Bike: V4 Bike Engine

While the triple can be considered to be the ideal middle ground between twins and four-cylinder engines, another unique a though somewhat more costly a middle ground between those two designs is the V-4 engine. The complexity and cost associated with manufacturing V-4s keeps OEMs from putting them in anything but higher-end models, but those that ride with them love the smooth power delivery, high performance, and narrow profile. The best part about V-4s is probably their unique sound; as essentially half of a V8, they have a unique, throaty growl that is pure performance.

Found in :

Higher end sport and sport-touring models (Honda VFR models, Yamaha V-max, Aprilia RSV4, Aprilia Tuono)
World class MotoGP machines (Honda RC213V, Ducati Desmosedici)

Strengths :

Smooth power delivery
High performance
Narrow profile
Incredible V4 sound

Weaknesses :

Complex and expensive to manufacture
Often heavier than comparable inline-4s.

Aprilia RSV4

The Aprilia RSV4 represents the most important and profound advancement ever made on this extraordinary model. A development that even involved the design. The style is the result of the perfect combination of form and function. The careful design led to the creation of the most compact full size sport bike on the market, where technical elements such as the impeccable aluminum double rail frame contribute to emphasizing its racing vocation.

The front end has been completely redesigned. Now there is a more protective top fairing, created after a careful wind tunnel aerodynamics study, which provides better protection from the wind for riders of any height. This choice has a positive impact not only on the track when the rider is seeking protection to achieve maximum speed, but also on the road where greater comfort is provided thanks to the lower air pressure on the body and helmet.

The characteristic triple headlight is new, now with a more modern shape and an LED parking light. The mirrors were also the subject of a wind tunnel study, combining excellent aerodynamic penetration with improved visibility and built in LED turn indicators. 2016 model year becomes even richer, adding as standard the new “Superpole” graphic, the V4-MP multi media platform and a new Öhlins shock absorber.

Yamaha V-Max.

This fast and monstrously powerful machine continues in the traditions of the original VMAX from 1985, with head-turning looks and a distinctive growl. The current incarnation puts a bigger engine in a more compact chassis to give awesome acceleration and precise handling. It comes with a 1,679cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke V4 engine that delivers huge torque and gives the rider previously unimaginable levels of power.

And that power is all contained within a dramatic, black, low-profile aluminum frame with giant front forks and massive, aggressively-styled aluminum air intakes. This is a muscle bike for the 21st century.