Difference Between Fuel Injection and Carburettor in Bikes

24 Sep 2021

Fuel injection in bikes is replacing carburetted ones in the market today. Almost all premium bikes come with a fuel injection system. Since the decision to buy a motorcycle heavily relies on the type of fuelling system, we present the difference between the two. Knowing the meaning of what is fuel injection in bikes, its advantages and disadvantages will help you make a well-informed choice before deciding who wins the battle of the carburettor vs fuel injection in motorcycles.

What is Carburettor?

To properly understand carburettor vs fuel injection motorcycles, let us understand their meanings along with advantages and challenges.

Until recently, the carburettor was one of the most basic and standard fuelling systems used by two-wheeler manufacturers in India. The carburettor's basic functioning includes a tube connected to the venturi, i.e., the system that helps slow down the flow of the fluid (fuel in this instance) by constricting it in a tube, which is shaped like a cone. This device generates an air pressure that creates a suction to draw fuel. In simple terms, a carburettor's job is to mix fuel and air in a definite ratio and feed it to the combustion chamber. When the rider squeezes the throttle of the bike, the airflow to the carburettor increases, which causes a suction of air that increases the delivery of the fuel, resulting in increased acceleration.

Advantages

• Carburettors are inexpensive, and you can get them repaired easily.
• Your mechanic can fine-tune the carburettor in your vehicle as your needs, thereby improving the mileage of your two-wheeler.
• Carburettors are also quite durable and long-lasting.
• You can ask the mechanic to remove the carburettor and service it as and when needed.

Challenges

• Motorcycles with carburettors may cause a slight lag that results in slower throttle response.
• They are not very fuel-efficient.
• Some parts of a carburettor could be prone to quicker wear and tear.
• If dust enters the chamber of a carburettor, it can lead to blockages
• Fluctuations of the air-fuel concoction can affect the smoothness of the engine.

What is the Fuel Injection System?

Fuel injection in bikes is a very modern technology-based process and comprises a complex set of electronics and sensors. In a fuel-injected system, the fuel drawn from the tank depends on a fuel pump installed inside the tank for fine-grained control over the fuel flow. The system relies on the Electronic Control Unit, which along with the sensors, calculates and adjusts the required amount of air and fuel needed to burn and function the cylinder.

Advantages

• A highly precise air-fuel concoction helps in efficient combustion.
• While it is in use, the throttle gives out a quicker and sharper response.
• This system has a very low maintenance process and does not easily break down.
• Fuel injection in bikes gives the bike better mileage
• Cleaner combustion in bikes leads to lesser air pollution.

Challenges

• Compared to carburettors, fuel injection in bikes is more expensive.
• It takes complex and expensive tools to maintain the vehicle and tune the systems in it.
• If the Electronic Control Unit fails, you may be left stranded on the roadside as regular mechanics may not know how to fix it.

Fuel Injection Vs Carburettor – Which is Better in Bikes

As is apparent from the above comparisons of carburettor vs fuel injection in motorcycles, fuel injection in bikes is more advantageous when it comes to performance, fuel efficiency, and better throttle response. The long-term cost of investing in a bike with a fuel injection system is better as they are fuel-efficient and require lesser maintenance. However, some people still love the old-school carburettors as they are easier to tune, per their preference.

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