Why Two Wheeler Bikes Make Noise: Exploring the Reasons Behind the Sound

Two wheeler bikes often make noise, and this can be attributed to several factors, including the design and structure of their engines and exhaust systems. Unlike cars, which have covered and cushioned engines, motorbikes are designed for a more raw and intense experience, with exposed components that contribute to the distinctive sounds heard on the road.

Engine Design and Exposure

Bikes primarily feature exposed engines, known as naked engines. In contrast, cars have bonnets that protect their engines. The bonnet of a car provides several advantages, including an air-tight seal that minimizes noise, as well as acoustic dampeners which further reduce sound. This design choice in cars helps maintain a quiet driving environment, but it comes at the cost of a more subdued engine sound.

Motorcycle engines, on the other hand, are not enclosed. This direct exposure leads to a range of noises, from the roar of the engine to the rumble of the exhaust, providing a more immersive and exhilarating riding experience for the cyclist. As a result, bikes are not typically designed to be as quiet as cars, and the noise they produce is intentional and part of the motorcycle culture.

Exhaust Systems and Sound Tuning

Many motorcycle manufacturers also deliberately tune the exhaust for a good sound or exhaust note. This means that the noise produced is intentional and often engineered to have a specific character. This is particularly true for sportier bikes, where the exhaust is designed to produce a more aggressive and powerful sound that enhances the overall riding experience. For example, the distinctive rumbling and thumping of a Royal Enfield Thunderbird can trigger alarms in nearby parked cars, highlighting the intentional design of the sound.

While the majority of motorcycles are not planned to be made silent, some lower displacement bikes, like certain Honda models under 160 CC, do come with almost silent engines at lower RPMs. This is achieved through refined engine design and advanced mufflers, making them quieter than their larger counterparts. However, even these models carry a distinct sound, which becomes more noticeable with higher engine speeds.

Special Cases and Motorcycles

Special cases exist, such as the Royal Enfield models. These bikes are renowned for their distinct throaty roar and thump, which is a signature characteristic of the brand. The Royal Enfield Thunderbird, for instance, produces an iconic sound that many riders find extremely appealing. The engine design and exhaust system are finely tuned to deliver a sound that is both raw and emotive, contributing to the brand's cult status in the motorcycle world.

It is not uncommon for drivers to become alarmed by the noise from a Royal Enfield. This is a testament to the bike's distinctive sound, which is both powerful and memorable. The sound triggers alarms in nearby cars, not because it is particularly loud for a bike, but because it is so characteristic of the Royal Enfield brand and its heritage.

Conclusion

In summary, the noise produced by two wheeler bikes is a result of their exposed engines and intentional sound tuning. While some models can be quieter than others, the raw and immersive sound of a motorcycle is a defining feature of the riding experience. Whether you love the roar of a big-displacement bike or the subtle hum of a smaller model like a Honda, the noise is an intrinsic part of motorcycle culture and enjoyment.

Keywords

two wheeler bikes noise naked engine acoustic dampers Royal Enfield

References