Liquid-cooled engines in motorbikes could be the most valued option with major two-wheeler makers in the country closely looking at this technology. The shift comes at a time when manufacturers have expressed interest to shift focus more to the 125cc and above segment bikes.
Currently, Yamaha YZF R15 (150 cc) is the only bike in the market to have liquid-cooled engines. According to experts, the use of this technology helps to increase the life of the engine by reducing its wear and tear.
Most liquid-cooled engines use a mixture of water and chemicals such as antifreeze and rust inhibitors. Some use no water at all, instead using a liquid with different properties, such as propylene glycol or a combination of propylene glycol and ethylene glycol. Most “air-cooled” engines use some liquid oil cooling, to maintain acceptable temperatures for both critical engine parts and the oil itself.
Although the liquid-cooled engine technology can be used across engine capacities, it is, however, ideal for bikes in the range of 125cc and above, considering the heat generated by such bikes.
The technology helps in maintaining stable temperature at all speeds, maintain a well balanced performance and better power output of the bike.
?We are in talks with two-wheeler manufacturers for radiators,? said Vimal K Patel, chairman, Banco Products (India) Limited, a manufacturer of gaskets and radiators. He added these radiators can be used on 135cc and above motorbikes.
Currently, Banco supplies gaskets to two-wheeler companies including TVS Motor Company, Hero Honda Motors, Yamaha Motor, Suzuki Motorcycle India, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India and Bajaj Auto.
