The process of setting the time that a spark will occur in the engine combustion chamber (during the power stroke) relative to piston position or crankshaft rotation. Setting the correct ignition timing is crucial in the performance of an engine. The ignition timing affects many variables including engine longevity, fuel economy, and engine power. Modern engines that are controlled by an engine control unit use a computer to control the timing throughout the engine’s RPM range. Older engines that use mechanical spark distributors rely on inertia (by using rotating weights and springs) and manifold vacuum in order to set the ignition timing throughout the engine’s RPM range.
Engine layout in which the cylinders are arranged in a row. For example, an “inline 4″ engine would have 4 cycliners aligned in one row.
Valve layout used on some early machines in which the exhaust valve was mounted to the side of the engine and the mechanically operated inlet valve was positioned above the exhaust.
The oldest “off road” motorcycle event on the FIM Calendar. (Originally titled the “International Six Day Trial,” or ISDE, since 1980 it has been called the “ISD Enduro.”)
First held in 1913 at Carlisle, England, it has occurred annually, apart from interruptions due to World War I and World War II, at various locations throughout the world. The early events were a true test of machine, rider skill, and reliability, held on the “roads” of that era. Today most of the routes are truly “off road.”
Up until 1974 the contest was always held in Europe. Since then it has been outside Europe more frequently.
The event has attracted national teams from as many as 32 different countries in recent years. Over its long history the rules and conditions have changed to keep in step with the developments in the sport, but it remains a supreme test of rider and machine. Over the six days and upwards of 1250 miles a rider must contend with strict rules about time allowances and restrictions on mechanical replacements, carrying out his or her own track-side repairs.
Usually referred to as the “Olympics of Motorcycling” with trophies for best national, junior national, club and manufacturing teams.
The ISDE can attract entries of more than 500 riders, together with thousands of support crew and spectators.
Originally titled the International Six Day Trial, since 1980 it has been called the “ISD Enduro.” The (ISDE) is the oldest “off road” motorcycle event on the FIM Calendar. (See ISDE).
Proprietary name for an engine/swingarm rubber mounting system used by Norton on its early Commando models.
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