08-22-2017, 10:53 AM
Correct me if I am wrong, but many of Honda's engineering decisions surrounding the engine were constrained by the need to make an air-cooled engine meet emissions standards. Higher compression and higher operating temperature generate more nitrogen oxide, which is what motivated VW to cheat with their diesel technology. The reduction in power output per cc is the reason you need an 1100 where in the past a 750-900 would suffice.
