Can a two cycle motorcycle engine run backwards?

Answer 1

Obviously they can, see here for proof:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZbgUPvcW1s

Answer 2

Yes, if you change the timing enough on a 2 cycle engine it will run backwards.
That's how the reverse worked in the old Mercury Outboard Mark-75 boat engine.

Answer 3

I'm not sure if I understand you correctly. Are you asking if the crank could turn in the opposite direction or if you can go in reverse. Any engine/motor can move a vehicle in reverse since that is a function of the transmission rather than the motor. Sorry if I am misunderstanding the question.

Answer 4

It happened to me on one of my bikes.
It scared the crap out of me.
Riding in first at about idle speed and rolled over a bump in the trail.
The engine just about cut out.
I quickly pulled in the clutch lever and it started running again.
I sat there with the bike running, in gear and the clutch lever pulled in.
Gave it some gas and let out the clutch.
WOOHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
I was riding backwards.
Yamaha DT models of the '70s were notorious for this.
The timing was so close to TDC, that it wouldn't make a difference which way the crankshaft was turning in order to run.
I've heard that Husqvarna's did the same thing.

Answer 5

Only if the way the ports etc are laid out will allow the cycles to work as they should, and the ignition timing is right. I believe the 2-strokes fitted to Russian Trabant cars could do this trick.

I think the most likely answer is "no", followed by "Maybe, but badly".

Answer 6

yes on rare occasion i have heard of them backfiring while starting and starting in reverse. remeber a wright up about this in cycle world or dirt rider. it happend and a person ran into there garage door backwards.

Answer 7

yes all bombardier ski doos run in reverse this is how they backup but only because of a second pulse generator [like points] in a different position on recent years anyway this is no change of ports are nessesary