Motorcycles Used And Loved The World Over

The motorcycle mania that first popped up during the turn of the early 20th century has remained with us for over a century. It shows no signs of abating and why should it?

The motorcycle mania that first popped up during the turn of the early 20th century has remained with us for over a century. It shows no signs of abating and why should it? Bikes are more environmentally friendly, can weave between traffic jams and are cheaper than four-wheelers. Besides, little can match the thrill of feeling the wind in your hair as you take control of a machine and cruise a stretch of road.

Bikes are categorized into three main types out of which several subtypes exist. This classification is necessary because some motorcycles are designed to be ridden over blacktops, others for long distances and more for off-roads or rough terrain. Check out this short list of the subtypes of bikes you'll find the next time you go motorcycle shopping.

Street bikes

Street bikes are two-wheelers designed for use on paved or bitumen roads. They're further divided into three main types, standard, cruiser and touring.

Standard: Standard bikes are distinguished by their upright riding position and lower horsepower. They're lightweight, easy to handle and inexpensive compared to other types. They typically don't have fairings as they don't travel very fast and air drag is not a major issue.

Cruiser: Cruisers are powerful bikes but aren't necessarily built for speed. Their main characteristic is higher handlebars and foot pegs placed in front of the rider. When attaining high speeds, cruisers make handling more effortless as riders don't have to shift positions often.

Touring: Touring bikes are built for long distance travel. They resemble cruisers in terms of size but are a little larger and bulkier. What sets them apart are cargo space and large-capacity fuel tanks. Fairings and windscreens are common as are pillion seats with backrests.

Off-road bikes

Off-road or dirt bikes are rugged yet lightweight and built to handle rough terrain. They can be ridden over paved roads but their capabilities won't be realized. High ground clearance, no fairings and minimal bodywork are the distinguishing marks.

Dirt bikes are divided into several subtypes like trial - light weight, basic or no seat, small fuel tanks -, trail - a bike for both on-road and off-road -, and track racing bikes which have no suspension, no brakes and aren't road legal.

Dual-purpose

Dual purpose bikes look like off-roaders but have additional features to make riding safer and more comfortable. Higher ground clearance and light weight are present in addition to fairings, side view mirrors and headlights.

Sport bikes and sport touring

Sport bikes are a type of street bike that emphasize speed and acceleration. Unlike standard bikes, however, they consume much more fuel to permit more power. Braking power is also enhanced as is suspension. Windscreens are usually standard and so is fairings which cover the engine and most hardware.

Sport touring motorcycles are a hybrid of sport bikes and touring bikes. Like the latter, passenger and cargo space are substantial though not as large as pure touring models. What they do have is faster acceleration and more powerful engines.

Scooters

Scooters are considered the less powerful siblings of motorcycles. They're distinguished by enclosing bodywork, built-in storage and a connecting footrest. They're suitable for use on city roads and touring is not recommended. What they lack in power they make up for in low maintenance, comfort and most of all, fuel efficiency.

Mopeds

Mopeds have lost popularity as today's riders are all about speed and touring capabilities. However, those seeking leisurely rides, low power and a cheap mode of transport will find these qualities in a moped. Many models have pedals in addition to engines as an added source of power.

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