<P> A V - twin engine, also called a V2 engine, is a two - cylinder internal combustion engine where the cylinders are arranged in a V configuration . Although widely associated with motorcycles, V - twin engines are also produced for the power equipment industry and are often found in riding lawnmowers, small tractors and electric generators . </P> <P> Gottlieb Daimler built a V - twin engine in 1889 . It was used as a stationary powerplant and to power boats . It was also used in Daimler's second automobile, the 1889 Stahlradwagen ("steel - wheeled car"). The engine was also manufactured under licence in France by Panhard et Levassor . </P> <P> In November 1902 the Princeps AutoCar Co (UK) advertised a V - twin engined motorcycle, and in 1903 V - Twins were produced by other companies, including the 90 degree XL - ALL (made by Eclipse Motor & Cycle Co in the UK). Also, in 1903, Glenn Curtiss in the United States, and NSU in Germany began building V - twin engines for use in their respective motorcycles . Peugeot, which had used Panhard - built Daimler V - twins in its first cars, made its own V - twin engines in the early 20th century . A Norton motorcycle powered by a Peugeot V - twin engine won the first Isle of Man Tourist Trophy twin - cylinder race in 1907 . </P>

Who built the first v twin motorcycle engine