SOHC Vs DOHC - Which Is Better for You?

Posted on: Feb 16, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

SOHC Vs DOHC - Which Is Better for You?

While going through a bike's features, some terms are not very simple to understand. SOHC and DOHC are among these terms. These two abbreviations are the two types of camshaft, which is an important part of an engine. So, let's understand the role of the camshaft and the SOHC vs DOHC thing.

Role of Camshaft in an Engine

The role of a camshaft is to control the opening and closing of the engine's valves. The camshaft's length rotates, leading to the cam lobes rotating as well. Moreover, since the cam lobes' shape, size, and positions are aligned with the valves, the cam lobes keep opening and closing the valves while rotating.

Overview of SOHC and DOHC

▪ SOHC

Single Overhead Camshaft has only one camshaft in the cylinder head. So, the single camshaft in the SOHC becomes responsible for operating the intake and exhaust valves.

▪ DOHC

On the other hand, a Double Overhead Camshaft has two separate camshafts, each responsible for either controlling the exhaust or intake valves.

What is the Difference Between SOHC and DOHC?

Here are the main differences between the SOHC and DOHC engines.

▪ Volumetric Efficiency

Since the intake and release of air and fuel are higher in the DOHC engines, the DOHC has more horsepower and better pickup.

▪ Low band torque

The torque produced by SOHC engines is more than DOHC engines, leaving SOHC bikes with better mileage.

SOHC vs DOHC: Which Engine is Better?

If you want more power and better pickup, DOHC is best for you. However, if you want better mileage, SOHC is better than DOHC, and that's why it's used on economy bikes. However, whatever bike you choose, it's important to have insurance for bike .

You should cover your bike with a comprehensive bike insurance or at least a third party bike insurance to comply with the motor vehicles act of 1988.

Wrapping Up

The camshaft in an engine is essential to make a bike functional. Moreover, a bike's performance, pickup and mileage depend upon the camshaft's type. So, when it comes to choose between SOHC or DOHC, it's important to look at the purpose of purchasing the bike

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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