Kawasaki To Bring Back Two-Stroke Engines?

Kawasaki has sparked excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts with a provocative social media post hinting at a potential revival of two-stroke technology. The brief video features fan comments calling for a return to two-stroke engines, concluding with the tantalising message: "We Heard You."

This shouldn’t come as a surprise because patent documents by Kawasaki from July 2024 reveal its innovative approach to two-stroke engine design. The new engine boasts advanced features including fuel injection, camshaft-operated intake valves, and a turbocharger. The proposed engine aims to capitalise on two-stroke benefits: lightweight construction, mechanical simplicity, and high power output. By incorporating fuel injection and a turbocharger, Kawasaki seeks to improve engine efficiency and potentially reduce fuel consumption. The design further suggests running with excess air in the combustion chamber, which could enable a leaner fuel mixture.

While initial speculation suggested the engine might be destined for aviation, Kawasaki UK has confirmed the powerplant is intended for vehicular use. The final application remains uncertain - it could emerge in a motorcycle, scooter, or even a hybrid.

Either way, the timing of the teaser couldn’t have been any better. It reignites enthusiasm for two-stroke technology, promising an exciting development for motorcycle enthusiasts who fondly remember the high-performance engines of the past.