Vertex pistons are manufactured in Italy and are the premier brand of replacement pistons around the world. Their pistons are trusted by OEMs such as KTM, Husqvarna, Beta, and Gas Gas. The company offers enthusiasts state-of-the-art, high-quality pistons for nearly any powersports use. Vertex collaborates with factory race teams on piston design, which allows them to build on their outstanding dedication to quality while continuing to bring their products to market at an affordable price.Vertex piston kits include the piston, rings, wrist pin, and circlips. The pistons are heat-treated with a T-6 hardening and tempering cycle. Also, a molybdenum disulphide skirt coating is used for reducing wear and improving the break-in phase of each piston.Forged Pistons for 4 StrokeFour-stroke engines have much higher cylinder pressures when compared to two-strokes and are generally manufactured from forgings. To handle the internal pressures of a four-stroke engine, Vertexs four-stroke pistons are forged from the highest quality 2618 aluminum alloy for superior strength and durability. Vertex uses unique piston profiles and compression ratios, offered in A, B, C, and D sizes, to maximize power and performance while reducing blow-by and oil consumption.Cast Pistons for 2 StrokeBecause of a cast pistons ability to contain higher silicon content compared to forged pistons, and because two-strokes have lower cylinder pressures when compared to four-strokes, cast pistons are ideal for two-stroke engines. Vertex pistons are gravity cast from an aluminum alloy with 18% silicon content. Silicon is important because:It decreases thermal expansion, which changes the geometry after the piston reaches operating temperature. With low thermal expansion characteristics, Vertex pistons can be run at tighter tolerances compared with forged pistons. This creates better power and performance, also making them less susceptible to rattling or breaking.Silicon gives the pistons better wear characteristics and prolongs piston life by decreasing wear on the piston skirt.