jacobsdad wrote:


Sense tells me that one cylinder developing almost the same HP as two
will most likely be quieter, smoother for the driver and more
economical (not that the economy of a riding mower is a massive issue).


Actually most 2 cylinder engines will be smoother and quieter than most
single cylinder engines because they are much better balanced. Two
smaller pistons moving in opposition to each other will cancel out a lot
of vibration. That being said, a really well built single cylinder
(Honda) up against a poorly built twin (older Briggs) would tend to show
otherwise.

I believe the single cylinder that JD is using is built by Kawasaki and
should be very high quality engine, comparable to a Honda.

--
Art