10 Types Of Motorcycles: Pros & Cons (with Pictures)

Motorcycles are a fantastic hobby for those looking to add adventure and fun to their lives. Whether you are using it for traveling, camping trips, sports, competing, or just traveling from one place to another in your city, motorcycles will provide a unique experience.

Depending on your preferences and desires, there are many types of motorcycles that can fit your needs. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common types of motorcycles, and by reading more about them, you can hopefully choose which one is right for you.

The 10 Types of  Motorcycles

1. Cruiser

The Cruiser is a very unique-looking motorcycle that gained popularity in the 1930s. This motorcycle’s recognizable characteristic is its rugged and robust style. These bikes are famous for their comfortable design and easy handling. They do not have much horsepower compared to other bikes on this list but are much more comfortable for longer rides.

The focus of the design and one of the most distinctive aspects is the seating, which allows the rider to sit elevated with their backs straight up or slightly tilted back. The Cruiser motorcycle has low-end torque, which allows this bike to accelerate faster without the need to shift gears that often.

2. Chopper

The Chopper has been one of the most popular motorcycles in the United States since the 1950s. What makes this bike so adored is its timeless, iconic look. This motorcycle has a unique and recognizable design, with the two front handlebars extending like long forks. It is one of the more difficult motorcycles to ride, which makes it a bike only for riders with a true passion for it.

The Harley Davidson chopper became a symbol of masculinity, especially in America, and is still very popular in the culture of bike riders.

3. Standard Roadster

The Standard Roadster is the most commonly seen motorcycle on the road. They are distinctive for their stripped-down design, so people also refer to them as “naked” motorcycles. They are adored by most bike riders, as they feature a mix of many components that are seen on other bikes. Another feature that makes them so popular is the ability to reduce, add, and modify almost all elements depending on your specific needs.

Most standard bikes come with a minimal amount of extras built-in but are suitable for customization and adding elements such as tank bags, spacious luggage, new seats, and many others.

4. Scooter

The Scooter may not technically be a motorcycle, but it has the same functions and features as a standard, naked motorcycle; therefore, it deserves a place on this list. The crucial elements and parts that make up a Scooter can be found in the earliest examples of motorcycles. Scooters are practical for city and commute rides, especially in places with a higher traffic volume.

They are primarily suitable for shorter rides because of the limited storage space and lightweight design, making them different from other motorcycles. Since most Scooters are designed with an automatic transmission, getting around with a Scooter or a Moped is much easier than with a conventional motorcycle.

5. Sport Bike

Sport Bikes are motorcycles that are popular and commonly seen worldwide. They come in various sizes, making them easily personalized to each rider specifically. The powerful yet customizable features make this motorcycle loved by enthusiasts. The design of these motorcycles is meant to incorporate a powerful engine inside a solid but lightweight frame. The tires are much wider and taller than on a standard bike, making the Sport Bike convenient for easy navigation and better cornering.

Although this motorcycle may not be as comfortable because the driver must sit tilted upfront, the seating design is crucial for the structural integrity of a sports bike.

6. Dirtbike

The Dirtbike motorcycle has a design that differs from standard on-road motorcycles. The main difference is the adaptability to any off-road terrain, which makes this motorcycle suitable for any terrain such as muddy, sandy, or rocky. There are many features that this motorcycle lacks, such as turn signals, taillights, headlights, and mirrors, which is why it’s unsuitable for riding in the city.

There are many various types of dirtbikes and they are usually modified and customized for individual sporting events specifically. They are widely used and adored by enthusiasts who enjoy off-road adventures.

7. Adventure

The Adventure motorcycle is a combination of a dirtbike and a standard bike, offering drivers excellent off-road experience while also being able to cruise down the highway. This motorcycle is a blend of only the best features that the standard and off-road motorcycles provide. Their minimal design allows them to be modified and tailored to fit each driver precisely. The simple design also makes an Adventure bike great for beginners while providing the maximum amount of fun and adventure.

Many Adventure motorcycles have a wide variety of storage options, making them great for long distances and camping trips.

8. Motocross

The Motocross bike can most often be seen racing in competitions on rough terrains. They are built with tough suspensions and knobby tires that allow them to make jumps and drastic turns on off-road terrains. The design of Motocross bikes makes them suitable for rides through the toughest terrains—from mountains and woods to deserts, these bikes can handle anything.

9. Electric

Electric vehicles have been gaining popularity over the past couple of years, and electric motorcycles are among them. Even though there are not many electric motorcycles on the market, many riders that enjoy modern technology adore them. They come in various styles and are characterized by their silent engine that runs on electricity. Apart from having a modern aesthetic, these bikes are a great alternative to gas-guzzling, combustion-engine motorcycles.

10. Touring

The Touring motorcycle is specifically made for more extended travel. It has many features that provide the driver with as much comfort and practicality as possible. These motorcycles are designed to provide maximum comfort with built-in extras that are not usually found on other bikes. Many Touring motorcycles include spacious luggage compartments, heated grips, seats, and cup holders and provide the driver with a natural seating position. The fuel capacity is also much bigger than other motorcycles, allowing this bike to travel much longer without refilling.

Conclusion

Whether you are a motorcycle enthusiast or a beginner, there is undoubtedly a motorcycle on this list that can fit your needs. From touring to cruising and electric to motocross, there is a motorcycle option to suit any rider’s needs.

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Featured Image Credit: Cuncon, Pixabay