The function of a flywheel is to store energy during the power stroke of the engine and then release it during the exhaust and compression strokes, helping maintain a constant speed of rotation.
In a single-cylinder engine, the power is delivered in pulses, with each power stroke followed by a period of no power. This can cause the engine to run erratically, with sudden accelerations and decelerations. The flywheel helps to smooth out these fluctuations by storing energy during the power stroke and then releasing it during the other strokes, providing a more consistent speed of rotation.
Additionally, the flywheel helps to reduce vibrations caused by the reciprocating motion of the piston. Without the flywheel, these vibrations would be much more pronounced and could cause damage to the engine.
