Engine displacement, often measured in cubic inches (CI) or cubic centimeters (cc), indicates the volume of air and fuel that can be moved by an engine’s cylinders. It plays a crucial role in determining an engine’s power output and fuel efficiency.
Converting CI to CC
To convert cubic inches to cubic centimeters, multiply the CI value by 16.3871. For instance, a 103 cubic inch motor has a displacement of 103 x 16.3871 = 1691.99 cc. It is common practice to round engine displacement to the nearest whole number, so a 103 cubic inch motor is typically referred to as a 1692 cc engine.
Significance of Engine Displacement
Engine displacement is a key specification that affects the performance and efficiency of a motor. Larger displacement engines generally produce more power and torque, which is beneficial for hauling heavy loads or long-distance riding. However, they also tend to consume more fuel. Smaller displacement engines, on the other hand, offer better fuel economy but may lack the power and torque for certain applications.
114 ci (1868 cc)
Found in Milwaukee-Eight engines
Exceptional power and torque
117 ci (1923 cc)
Largest standard Harley-Davidson engine
Maximum performance and torque
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Engine Size
Selecting the appropriate engine size for a Harley-Davidson motorcycle depends on several factors, including:
Riding style: Larger engines provide more power and torque for long-distance riding or hauling heavy loads.
Motorcycle model: Different models are designed with specific engine sizes in mind.
Fuel efficiency: Smaller engines generally offer better fuel economy.
Personal preference: Ultimately, the best engine size is the one that best suits the rider’s needs and preferences.
FAQs
How many cubic centimeters (cc) are in a 103 cubic inch (CI) motor?
A 103 CI motor has a displacement of approximately 1692 cc.
How do you convert cubic inches (CI) to cubic centimeters (cc)?
Multiply the cubic inch value by 16.3871 to convert it to cubic centimeters.
Why is engine displacement important?
Engine displacement indicates the volume of air and fuel that the engine’s cylinders can move. It is a key factor in determining an engine’s power output and fuel efficiency.
Characteristic
Advice/Key Point
Conversion Factor
1 CI = 16.3871 cc
103 Cubic Inch Motor
Displacement of 1691.99 cc
Rounding Convention
Engine displacement rounded to the nearest whole number
Measurement Significance
Indicates engine’s air and fuel intake capacity, affecting power and efficiency
Engine Sizes
Harley-Davidson motorcycles commonly use 883 ci, 96 ci, 103 ci, 114 ci, and 117 ci engines
883 ci Engine
Provides good fuel economy and agility, found on Sportster models
96 ci Engine
Offers a balance of power and efficiency, featured in Dyna and Softail models
103 ci Engine
Provides ample torque and power for long-distance riding, used in Touring and CVO models
114 ci Engine
Delivers exceptional power and torque, found in Milwaukee-Eight engines
117 ci Engine
The largest standard Harley-Davidson engine, designed for maximum performance and torque
