Ariel’s weird-ass Square Four configuration. It seemed like a good idea at the time

There’s a saying that goes something along the lines of “art is a science with more than seven variables.” Now correct us if we’re wrong, but we think what it’s getting at is that after the seventh level of variation in a particular system, things get so complex that it’s impossible to study rationally and you just have to sit back and enjoy the arcane beauty of it all. Much like choosing a particular motorcycle engine. One of the most amazing things about motorbikes is that there’s a genuinely impressive amount of engineering experimentation going on. And each time a manufacturer decides to shake things up a little with a strange new array of flailing pistons, we all benefit with a whole new riding experience to enjoy. Different power delivery, noise, vibrations, torque curves, idle – the list is almost endless, as are the smiles. But we’re not here to be vague, we’re here to be specific. Damn specific. What’s your favourite engine configuration?

(Update: Only 30 more votes to make this our most popular poll ever. Many thanks to everyone who has taken the time! Feel free to mail us with your own poll ideas if you think you’ve got a good one.)