What’s a turbo?

Whereas a supercharger is connected to an engine mechanically to pressurise the inlet ports and increase the gas flow, a turbocharger uses a turbine that exploits the energy that would otherwise be lost in the exhaust. Running at up to 180,000rpm, the turbocharger needs to be matched to the flow through the engine to ensure that it responds effectively so the compressor, connected to the turbine with a shaft, pressurises the inlet ports when the rider needs it. It sounds like a win-win situation. But a characteristic of the devices is that there’s a penalty. The power boost isn’t delivered until the engine is producing useful power, the so-called ‘turbo lag’ was often exaggerated on motorcycles that rely more on quick throttle response.