When it comes to motorcycles, there are numerous options to explore. Whether you’re a professional rider or just starting out on your motorcycle journey, it’s crucial to have a good understanding of the various types of motorcycles available to you. Each type offers its own unique features and benefits, catering to different riding preferences and styles. From bikes that offer speed and agility to cruisers known for their style and comfort, we will explore a wide range of motorcycle categories.
In this comprehensive guide, let’s understand different types of motorcycles, their characteristics and how it suits your needs.
What Are The Different Types Of Motorcycles You Should Know About?
1. The Standard Type Of Motorcycle
Standard motorcycles are versatile and practical bikes known for their simple design and comfortable riding position. With a medium seat height, these types of bikes offer a range of power options, from 125cc to 1,000cc. Designed for commuting or long rides, standard bikes prioritise rider comfort with an upright position, mid-range handlebars, and mid foot controls. They typically feature longer seats that accommodate solo or two-up riding.
Yamaha and Suzuki are popular brands delivering quality standard bikes. Make your bike riding experience better with high-quality bike riding accessories that enhance safety, comfort, and style on the road.
Top Standard Motorcycles:
- Honda CB500F
- Kawasaki Z650
- Yamaha MT-07
2. The Cruiser Motorcycles
Cruiser motorcycles are popularly known for their style and comfortable design, making them ideal motorcycle for long road trips in India. Cruisers often have powerful engines, typically with V-Twin configurations, which give them a special sound.
When you sit on a cruiser, you’ll feel relaxed and at ease with your feet forward and hands on the handlebars. Famous brands like Harley-Davidson, Indian, Honda, and Yamaha make different types of motorcycle cruisers to match your preferences and give you a fun and enjoyable riding experience.
Top Cruiser Motorcycles:
- Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe
- Kawasaki Vulcan
- Ducati Diavel
3. The Sport Bike
Sport bikes, also known as superbikes, are different types of bikes designed for speed, agility, and an adrenaline-filled riding experience. These motorcycles feature sleek and aerodynamic designs, carefully optimised to achieve maximum performance on the road or track. They are widely known for their outstanding acceleration, precise handling, and impressive braking capabilities. Riders on sports bikes adopt a more aggressive riding position, leaning forward for better control.
Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR, and Ducati Panigale V4 are well-known sport bike models. When riding a sport bike, it’s important to prioritise safety and buy helmets online in India and wear them to protect yourself in case of accidents. Helmets provide crucial head protection and should always be worn while riding.
Top Sport Bikes:
- Yamaha YZF-R15
- BMW S1000RR
- Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
4. The Touring Motorcycles
Touring motorcycles are designed for comfortable and convenient long-distance travel. They come with features like spacious fuel tanks, comfortable seats, and ample storage for luggage. Wind protection is ensured by fairings and windshields. When selecting a touring motorcycle, it’s important to think about how much luggage it can hold, the level of wind protection it offers, and the comfort of both the rider and the passenger.
Popular and trusted brands for touring enthusiasts include Harley-Davidson, BMW, Honda, and Yamaha. These motorcycles, equipped with bike LED fog lights, are recognized for their reliability, performance, and ability to meet the specific needs of touring enthusiasts.
Top Touring Motorcycles:
- BMW R1250GS
- Honda Gold Wing
- Royal Enfield Himalayan
5. The Sport Touring Motorcycles
Sport-touring motorcycles, also known as sports-tourers, combine the performance of sports bikes with the comfort and long-distance capabilities of touring motorcycles. With their forward-leaning ergonomics, larger fairings for wind protection, and side or rear pannier storage systems, sport-touring motorcycles offer great agility and functionality. When riding these motorcycles, it’s important to prioritise safety by wearing motorcycle riding gloves, which provide protection and enhance grip.
Popular sport touring models include the Kawasaki Concours14 ABS, known for its spacious luggage capacity and powerful engine. Trusted brands in this segment include BMW, Yamaha, Honda, and Ducati, offering reliable motorcycles designed for sports touring enthusiasts.
Top Sport Touring Motorcycles:
- Yamaha FJR1300
- Kawasaki Concours 14
- Ducati Multistrada 1260
6. The Dual Sports Motorcycles
Dual-sport motorcycles, also known as dual-purpose bikes, offer a versatile riding experience both on-road and off-road. These bikes combine the features of street motorcycles with off-road capabilities, allowing riders to tackle various terrains. With their slightly taller seat height and aggressive suspension, they handle backroads and off-beaten paths with ease.
When it comes to dual-sport motorcycles, there are different bike models to choose from. The BMW G 310 GS, for example, strikes a balance between off-road capability and sporty aesthetics, making it a popular choice among riders. Trusted brands such as Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and KTM offer a range of dual-sport bikes, providing riders with reliable options for versatile riding experiences.
Top Dual Sports Motorcycles:
- Kawasaki KLR650
- Honda Africa Twin
- Suzuki DR-Z400
7. The Scooter
Scooters, a popular type of 2 wheeler, offer a practical and stylish solution for transportation, especially in urban areas. With their lightweight design, they effortlessly navigate through bustling streets, providing a convenient mode of travel. Available in various sizes, ranging from 50cc to 500cc, scooters provide sufficient power for daily commutes or enjoyable outings.
Despite their limited storage capacity, scooters are ideal for cruising around with a few essential items. Their compact engines contribute to their fuel efficiency, making them cost-effective transportation options. Trusted manufacturers such as Suzuki, Yamaha, and Honda have established themselves as leaders in the scooter industry, delivering quality products.
Top Scooters:
- Vespa Primavera
- Honda PCX150
- Yamaha NMAX
8. The Moped
Mopeds combine the features of motorcycles and bicycles, known for their lightweight frame and smaller engines typically 50cc or less. They are highly practical for urban commuting and short-distance travel due to their manoeuvrability and easy parking. Mopeds excel at navigating through congested city streets and finding parking spaces in crowded areas.
They are fuel-efficient, making them a cost-effective choice for daily commuting. Mopeds allow riders to bypass traffic and reach their destinations efficiently. With their compact size and ability to move swiftly, mopeds offer a convenient way to travel in urban environments.
Top Dual Mopeds:
- Tomos Sprint
- Puch Maxi
- Peugeot Kisbee
9. Off-Road Motorcycles
Off-road motorcycles are built for dirt biking, motocross, and trail riding. These bikes are not equipped with lights or turn signals and are usually transported to riding spots on trailers. They are lightweight and designed for off-road adventures. Renowned brands like Kawasaki offer off-road models such as the KLX110, designed for easy manoeuvring on steep hills. Off-road bikes are categorised into enduro, motocross, and trials, each with specific applications.
They are versatile machines capable of handling various terrains. Popular brands like Yamaha, Honda, KTM, and Husqvarna offer a range of respected off-road bike models. Some off-road motorcycle helmets also come with bluetooth intercom for helmet systems, facilitating wireless communication among riders for enhanced safety during off-road adventures.
Top Off-Road Motorcycles:
- Triumph Tiger Explorer
- Honda CRF450X
- Yamaha WR450F
Conclusion
Whether you prefer a sleek and stylish ride, the versatility of adventure bikes, the freedom of cruisers, or the off-road capabilities of dirt bikes, you can find the perfect motorcycle that suits your style. Prioritise what matters most to you, be it speed, comfort, adventure, or functionality, when choosing your motorcycle. Safety should always be your top priority. That’s why it’s essential to have the right gear for a secure riding experience.
At Bikester Global Shop, you’ll find a wide selection of quality equipment and accessories, including helmets and protective gear. Start your motorcycle journey with confidence and gear up for a thrilling ride.