The Turbocharged Motorcycle: A Flashback to the 80s and a Glimpse into a Potential Future
Just 42 years ago, a Suzuki XN85, a strikingly designed machine boasting a turbocharger, sold for $4700. Today, pristine examples fetch significant sums at auction, a testament to its rarity and the enduring fascination with forced induction in motorcycling. But the XN85 wasn’t an isolated experiment. It was part of a short-lived, yet pivotal, wave of turbocharged motorcycles from Japanese manufacturers in the early 1980s – a wave that ultimately crashed due to technological limitations. Now, with advancements in electronics and materials, could turbocharging be poised for a genuine resurgence in the motorcycle world?
The 80s Turbo Boom and Bust
The early 1980s saw Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki all vying to deliver a significant power boost through turbocharging. Models like the Honda CX500 Turbo, Yamaha XJ650 Turbo, Kawasaki GPz 750 Turbo, and of course, the Suzuki XN85, represented a bold attempt to redefine performance. The goal was simple: more power. However, the technology wasn’t quite ready. The biggest hurdle was turbo lag – the delay between applying throttle and the turbocharger delivering boost. This resulted in a frustratingly unpredictable power delivery, making these bikes challenging to ride.
Compounding the issue was the state of engine management systems at the time. Electronics were rudimentary, unable to precisely control the turbo and prevent issues like overboost and engine knock. The result? Commercial failures, despite the innovative engineering. The Suzuki XN85, sold for only one year, became a particularly sought-after collector’s item precisely because of its limited production run.
The XN85: A Unique Piece of Motorcycle History
The Suzuki XN85 wasn’t just about the turbo. It was a forward-thinking machine for its time. It debuted in 1983 as the first production motorcycle with a 16-inch front wheel, and featured Suzuki’s Full Floater rear suspension. Its 673cc inline-four engine, derived from the GS650, officially produced 85 horsepower – hence the name. The Katana-inspired styling, penned by Hans Muth, further cemented its iconic status. The recent auction of a remarkably well-preserved XN85 highlights the enduring appeal of this pioneering machine.
Why Turbocharging Stalled (and Why It Might Revive)
The initial turbo experiments failed not because the concept was flawed, but because the supporting technology lagged behind. Modern motorcycles benefit from decades of advancements in electronics, materials science, and engine management. Today’s sophisticated ECUs (Engine Control Units) can precisely control boost pressure, fuel injection, and ignition timing, effectively eliminating turbo lag and optimizing performance.
Furthermore, advancements in materials like lightweight alloys and ceramic turbines allow for smaller, more responsive turbochargers. Electric turbochargers, powered by the motorcycle’s electrical system, are also emerging as a viable option, offering instant boost without relying on exhaust gases. This technology addresses the inherent delay of traditional turbochargers.
Beyond Power: The Potential Benefits of Turbocharging Today
A resurgence of turbocharging isn’t just about chasing higher horsepower figures. It offers several potential benefits in the modern motorcycle landscape. Downsizing engines while maintaining power output is a key advantage, leading to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This is particularly relevant as manufacturers face increasingly stringent environmental regulations.
Turbocharging can also enhance torque, providing more usable power across a wider RPM range – a boon for both street riding and touring. Imagine a smaller displacement adventure bike delivering the low-end grunt of a much larger engine, all while sipping fuel and minimizing its environmental impact. Research into motorcycle turbocharging is ongoing, exploring these very possibilities.
The Electric Assist Advantage
The integration of electric assist systems, like those seen in hybrid cars, could further amplify the benefits of turbocharging. An electric motor could provide instant torque to fill in any remaining lag, creating a seamless and responsive power delivery. This combination could unlock a new level of performance and efficiency in motorcycles.
The Future is Forced Induction?
While no major motorcycle manufacturer currently offers a turbocharged production model, the groundwork is being laid. The technological hurdles that plagued the 80s are largely overcome. The demand for increased power, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions creates a compelling case for a turbocharged future. The legacy of bikes like the Suzuki XN85 serves as a reminder of the ambition and innovation that drive the motorcycle industry. It’s not a question of *if* turbocharging will return to motorcycles, but *when* – and how dramatically it will reshape the riding experience.
What role do you see turbocharging playing in the next generation of motorcycles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
