Motorcycle: the evolution of two-wheeled transport


The 21st century is a time of rapid development of all types of industry, constant updates and the introduction of something completely new. It would seem that a few years ago, avid conservatives said that there would be no electric bikes in their line, but now Harley Davidson reports that its LiveWire already accelerates to hundreds in a couple of seconds and has a fast charging system. Even Ural Motorcycles showed a prototype of an electric motorcycle. The masters of the old school furtively wiped away a stingy tear in anticipation of new products taking over the world, but for now, a selection of the most anticipated motorcycles in the near future.

This list can be expanded; here is a selection of the most striking models.

Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade 2022

Undoubtedly, it is expected due to the ultra-modern and short-stroke inline four-cylinder engine with a volume of 999.9 cc. If we look for official press releases from the manufacturer, we see 217.5 hp here. at 14500 rpm. Track-inspired suspension and electronics. That says it all.

Equipment for sportbike owners - what is it?

MV Agusta Brutale 1000 Serie Oro

This moto is the most powerful serial naked bike. The 998cc four-cylinder engine is removed from the F4 RC. The car reaches a maximum speed of more than 300 km/h! In addition to the Ohlins suspension, there is also a lot of electronics - a TFT display (5-inch), drive-by-wire throttle, rear wheel control, traction control, launch control and quickshifter (+/-).

Interesting fact: during the EICMA 2018 exhibition in Milan, thanks to the votes of the audience, the Brutale 1000 received the title “The most beautiful motorcycle”.


MV Agusta Brutale 1000 Serie Oro

  • Power 212 hp
  • Torque 115 Nm.

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Sports types of motorcycles

Sports motorcycle models are very powerful and beautiful. They are easy to control at any, even critical speed. Sports motorcycles are agile and powerful.

This type of motorcycle is characterized by a powerful engine, the number of horsepower of which can significantly exceed its weight. It is characterized by a sharp engine, six-speed transmission, wide wheels and excellent brakes.

It is very convenient to ride on sports motorcycles, since they have a recumbent seating position, are equipped with enlarged footrests and a fairly low handlebar. Another advantage of this type of motorcycle is its relatively low weight.

However, sports models are not as ideal as it might seem to the average person. Their problematic aspects include:

  • the need to correlate the speed of the motorcycle and the wind;
  • unusual position, which can cause muscle pain;
  • the high cost of the motorcycle itself and its repairs;
  • high prices for spare parts and components;
  • high fuel consumption;
  • fragility of plastic casing.

It should be noted that all sports models should not be used by beginners, since high speed is a constant risk. Driving a vehicle of this kind is the privilege of professionals.

Type of transport motorcycle road

Depending on the design features, functionality and purpose, road bikes can be divided into “classic”, “sports”, “super-sport”, “sports-touring”, “touring”, “choppers”, “cruisers”, “customized motorcycles” , “dragsters”, “scarvers”, mini-bikes” and heavy motorcycles”.

As you can see, there are many subclasses. And no wonder! This type of transport, such as a motorcycle, has been in widespread use for more than 100 years. During this time, it appeared in sports, entertainment, video games, etc. That is, it has seeped into many areas of human activity. Residents of almost all countries on the planet ride on iron horses. As a result, we have an abundance of modified two- and three-wheel bike designs.

Now let's return to the main topic and describe in detail the types of motorcycles, also indicating their photographs. Classic motorcycles, or “Classic” for short, are bikes with a universal design and purpose. These motorcycles are the most common in the world today. This is probably due to the fact that they appeared earlier than other two-/three-wheelers.

The operation of this type of motorcycle equipment involves riding with the driver in an upright position, which allows you to comfortably cross very long distances. This type of motorcycle can also be divided into city bikes “Streetfighter”, “Naked” and “Neoclassic”. “Naked” look especially beautiful, since all unnecessary amenities are removed from them. Almost all Soviet bikes with light and medium weight can be classified as road iron horses.

Types of motorcycles – “Sportbike”

Steel horses of this class are created specifically for racing. Nevertheless, such motorcycles are also mass-produced for use outside the race track. These are high-speed two-wheelers, the ride of which is distinguished by the reclining driver's position.

“Supersport” is a separate type of the above class of bikes. This includes iron horses with an engine capacity of 1 liter or more. Basically, such vehicles accelerate to a speed of 280-300 km/h without any problems.

Class “Sports Tourist”

Types of motorcycles are designed for the maximum possible correct use in certain conditions. This same subclass combines the ability to travel on bikes over vast distances at high speed, as well as participate in high-speed competitive races. It is a mixture of sports functionality with the aesthetics of a touring bike. Being adapted for a variety of purposes, it can be used as a true compromise in everything that does not affect off-road competitions or economic purposes.

This class of bikes allows you to travel incredibly long distances on two wheels with high comfort. You get a very comfortable riding position on the motorcycle, which has a fairly large gas tank and various accessories (covers and panniers) for transporting/storing cargo on the road. Types of engines for motorcycle equipment of this class are mainly represented by low-speed, medium-power motors. This type of transport is often supplemented with acoustic systems, airbags and even air conditioners built into the structure.

Tricycle

Worldwide recognition for motorcycles came in 1895, when French inventors Albert de Dion and Georges Bouton created a very light, single-cylinder, four-stroke internal combustion engine by mounting it on a specially designed three-wheeled structure. The result was a tricycle (three-wheeled vehicle) “De Dion-Bouton”. Under the license of this company and often with its engines, tricycles were built in many countries around the world. They continue to produce tricycles (albeit in limited quantities) to this day.

SUVs

This style is suitable for those who like to get away from the bustle of the city. Often these models are called two-wheeled jeeps. Off-road bikes can easily overcome sandy and rocky trails. They are light weight, well controlled, low speed, suitable for beginners in motorcycling. They are distinguished by a high seat and an upward shift of the center of gravity. There are types of enduro and motocross motorcycles.

Cross

These motorcycles cannot be used as a means of transportation; they do not have lights. Their purpose is sports racing, jumping, and off-road travel. A bright representative of cross-country motorcycles is the Honda CRF 450. There is nothing superfluous in the design, only what is necessary for success in the competition. Usually it is a 2-stroke powerful engine, a durable frame, reliable suspension, and starts with a kick starter.

Enduro

The name of this style comes from the Latin “indurare” - endure, withstand. This is a special motorcycle equipment for sports competitions taking place on roads of different surfaces, over rough terrain, with a given schedule of movement over long distances over several days. Motorcycles must cope with different conditions throughout the competition, and therefore differ from road ones.

Enduro Features:

  • wide steering wheel, giving good control on uneven roads;
  • stability thanks to the large front wheel;
  • spoked wheels that can withstand deformation during strong impacts, can be repaired, and are lighter than cast wheels;
  • the front mud flap is mounted high so that dirt does not get clogged between it and the wheel;
  • tire tread with developed lugs for driving off paved roads;
  • chain drive with excellent shock absorption for lighter weight and gear changes;
  • a set of lighting equipment and mirrors;
  • navigator;
  • state registration plates.

At competitions, certain requirements for enduro are specified, for example, minimum weight, engine size, design and length of control levers, and others.

The representative of the enduro style is the Honda Africa Twin.

Motards

A type of enduro, created for busy urban conditions: driving along curbs, stairs and other obstacles. Motards have wheels and brakes like sportbikers, a powerful engine. An excellent style of motorcycle equipment to show off your agile riding. Mottard sample - Suzuki RMZ 450.

Off-road motorcycles

In this class, the types of motorcycles are represented in large numbers. They are divided depending on the driver's goals. The development of models of this type has gone so far that many manufacturers offer options for specific riding conditions, discipline and style. In general, any motorcycle is a lightweight, but powerful and reliable bike. These types of motorcycles were created to conquer difficult areas.

Off-road enduro

In general, such bikes are suitable for both off-road and normal trail riding, so they must meet a number of requirements and have:

  • powerful engine;
  • progressive type suspension with large stroke;
  • direct seating position for the driver
  • light frame.

In addition, these types of off-road motorcycles are additionally equipped with the following equipment:

  • ignition system with battery and electric starter;
  • brake lights;
  • powerful headlights;
  • turn signals;
  • dashboard;
  • rear view mirrors;
  • frame for fixing the number.

Cross-country motorcycles characteristics

Powerful yet lightweight bikes with a simple design. Designed for sporty driving on motocross tracks. They are not equipped with lighting equipment, headlights and brake lights. You can only ride in racing format. The design is adapted for convenient passage of difficult areas with springboards and obstacles. Motocross motorcycles are designed for fast riding and spectacular jumps. They are easy to repair and get back to racing. The best motocross motorcycles are produced by the following companies: Honda, Husqvarna, Yamaha. Features of these models:

  1. Stable suspension that can withstand landings from heights after jumps.
  2. An extended seat that allows you to shift the center of gravity while riding.
  3. Light weight.
  4. Engine capacity 500 cc. cm.

Classification of motorcycles by type

Main article: Types of motorcycles

Classifications on official dealer websites

For the American and European markets, the range of Japanese motorcycles is presented in a more comprehensive form than for the Japanese. In addition to the general division (on-road, sports and dual-purpose), motorcycles are divided into types depending on the layout and style.

HondaYamahaKawasakiSuzuki
RoadStreet: TouringTouringTouring
RoadStreet: Sport Touring
RoadStreet: Super Sport TouringSuper Sport Touring
RoadStreet: AdventureStreet: Adventure TouringAdventure
RoadStreet: CroisersCruisersCruiser
RoadStreet: Chopper
RoadStreet: SportSportSportbike
RoadStreet: Super SportSuper Sport
RoadStandard
RoadStreet: Motard
Dual useOffRoad/Street: Dual SportStreet: Dual PurposeDual PurposeDualsport
SportsOffRoad: MotocrossOffRoad: MotocrossMotocrossMotocross
SportsOffRoad: OffRoadOffRoadOffroad
SportsKids
SportsOffRoad:Trail

Classification proposed by the publishing house "Behind the Wheel"

The classification was first published in 1995, and then, with some additions, it was periodically presented in subsequent editions of the World of Motorcycles catalog with the caveat that, like any classification, it cannot claim completeness, since any motorcycle can move from one category to another through the installation of various accessories, changing tires and other changes. The authors indicate the purpose and layout as the basis for the classification and include not only motorcycles, but also mopeds and scooters. Also, when identifying types, such a parameter as the style of the motorcycle is considered separately.

Minibikes:

  • simple designs of moped origin,
  • more complex designs of motorcycle origin,
  • folding.

Standard or "classic" motorcycles are basic motorcycles that retain the classic simplicity of their styling. A specific group - neoclassics, stylized in the spirit of past years, includes:

  • retro motorcycles
    , reproducing the style of the 50-70s;
  • street bikes
    , successors to the cafe racers of the 60s;
  • scramblers
    .

Motorcycles made in American style:

  • custom
    ;
  • choppers
    ;
  • cruisers
    ;
  • dragsters
    ;
  • trainers
    ;

Sportbikes are usually the most powerful and fastest motorcycles, with the exception of special racing models:

  • typical sportbikes
    ;
  • sports tourists
    ;
  • nakeds
    .

Touring motorcycles are the most comfortable for long trips on good roads. This type is sometimes combined with sports tourists and trainers.

Dual-purpose motorcycles - designed for driving both on asphalt roads and off-road, the layout is made in the “enduro” style (it is specially stipulated that the term “enduro” without reservation is used only for cars for purely sports purposes). According to road performance, dual-purpose motorcycles are divided into:

  • “hard” - they are closer to sports equipment than other dual-purpose motorcycles, but unlike enduro motorcycles they have a more comfortable seat and passenger footrests;
  • “soft” - intended, rather, for roads, but does not exclude movement over rough terrain;
  • “tourist” - equipped with large displacement engines, with a more comfortable seating position and are heavier, which makes it difficult to move over rough terrain;
  • “urban” - shod with purely road tires, which are therefore unsuitable for off-road use.

Motorcycles for special purposes - equipped with special equipment:

  • army;
  • police officers;
  • firefighters;
  • for ambulance, etc.

This also includes off-road motorcycles
.

Sports motorcycles are motorcycles for competitions in various motorcycle disciplines. Are divided into:

  • racing (for road racing),
  • cross,
  • enduro - ,
  • trial,
  • for rally raids,
  • for motorball,
  • motards (for supermoto competitions),
  • for speedway,
  • etc. for other disciplines.

It is also customary to include children's sports motorcycles
- intended for acquiring the first skills of off-road riding.

Motorcycles with sidecars.

All-terrain vehicles (ATV).

Freight motor transport.

Off-road motorcycles

They are produced to conquer off-road terrain, all kinds of jumps and other obstacles. To do this, they are equipped with the appropriate equipment, which allows them to easily overcome areas where ordinary bikes would simply get stuck in a slip.

The following types of motorcycles are considered the most famous off-road vehicles:

  • cross;
  • enduro;
  • motard;
  • speedway, etc.

Cross

This type of motorcycle has one purpose - sports. It is not used on public routes, as there are no lighting devices on it. They are not designed for city driving.

Distinctive features are:

  • small mass;
  • reliable frame;
  • long travel suspension.

They are almost always equipped with a two-stroke engine, which is started by a kick starter. All this together makes the bike a good cross racer. There are no excesses.

Examples include:

  • Suzuki RM250(2T)/RM-Z250(4T);
  • Honda CRF250R;
  • Yamaha YZ250.

There are modified models with 450 cubes. There are also miniature versions of this type of bike, which are produced for use in children's motocross races.

Enduro

They are heavier than motocross bikes and have a similar appearance to them, but are not as powerful. The main direction of these motorcycles is off-road tourism over relatively short distances. To do this, they are equipped with excellent suspensions that successfully smooth out road bumps, and a fairly wide seat. The upright seating position does not put as much strain on the torso while riding. At the same time, they have turn signals, headlights, a speedometer, a mirror, a muffler - everything that makes it possible to drive on city streets.

Examples include:

  • Yamaha TT250R Open Enduro;
  • GEON X-Road 200 BMW;
  • Suzuki DR-Z400.

Motards

Designed for regular roads, but can also cope well with off-road conditions. Motards are characterized by a high rider position, ease of control and a fairly powerful engine.

This type of motorcycle includes:

  • BM Motard 200;
  • BMW G650 X;
  • Suzuki 250SB;
  • Honda FMX 650;
  • Yamaha XT660X.

Speedway

Structurally, it is designed specifically for circuit ice racing. There is no gearbox, brakes, fairings, but there are spikes (almost 3 cm). These motorcycles are integral to the sport. At the same time, manufacturers decided to create a more popular version available to ordinary citizens.

Harley-Davidson was the first to produce the Peashooter (350 cc), which could be purchased by almost anyone. Soon, the Indian company began producing the Prince bike with approximately the same cost and engine capacity. We can’t help but mention the Jawa motorcycle, the legendary winner of many speedway competitions.

Electric motorcycle (“Electric motorcycle”)

Design:

It is based on the body of a gasoline sportbike, the internal space of which is occupied by a block battery (Li-ion or Li-po). The driving range and charging time of an electric motorcycle depend on the battery capacity.

Instead of an internal combustion engine and a chain drive, a brushless electric motor (wheel motor) is installed on the rear wheel. Its power determines the driving speed and traction force of an electric motorcycle.

Advantages and disadvantages of an electric motorcycle compared to gasoline motorcycles:

With an electric motor power of up to 4000W, it does not require registration and receipt of numbers.

Does not require fuel.

Does not require constant maintenance.

There is no need to add oil.

There are no strong exhaust odors.

Environmentally friendly, which allows you to ride in protected areas and city parks.

There is no internal combustion engine, which is the main cause of failure of conventional motorcycles.

Peculiarities:

No roar from the exhaust pipe due to the absence of both the pipe and the internal combustion engine.

There is no way to burn rubber. Engine locks when the brake is pressed.

Flaws

:

As of 2022, prices for both motorcycles and components are inflated.

Low mileage on one charge.

Long charging time.

Fast battery consumption at high speeds.

Air-cooled only: motorcycles overheat and go into “temperature protection mode.”

Charging requires special adapters and chargers.

Charging from a 220V network is not always possible.

Most service stations do not have electronics specialists.

In cold weather, the battery capacity decreases.

If other devices (mobile phones, players, speaker systems, navigators, etc.) are powered from the motorcycle, then the range on charge becomes even shorter.

You cannot take extra fuel containers with you and simply put them in the trunk or place them on the passenger seat to refuel if there is no suitable gas station nearby for a long time.

Many countries still impose taxes on electric motorcycles, despite the fact that they have no emissions.

If the engine is “wedged,” the clutch cannot be depressed to avoid locking the rear wheel. But the wedge of an electric motor is a rare phenomenon.

If your battery is dead and there's no charging station nearby, you can't just stop a passing car and ask them to share the fuel.

If the add-on is installed incorrectly. equipment or its poor quality, it is quite possible that it will discharge the motorcycle battery even when parked or when stopping, and, consequently, reduce the mileage on a charge.

Simplicity and accessibility

In the first half of the 20th century. motorcycle production experienced a real boom. During the First World War, motorcycles were used in courier communications and as a mobile vehicle on which a machine gun was mounted. After its completion, the design of the motorcycle was constantly improved and after World War II it reached its perfection. During this period, new models were developed and light mopeds and motor scooters appeared. The great popularity of these vehicles among the population was associated with their simplicity, accessibility and low cost compared to a car.


Scooter

Custom

The name of the types of motorcycles, photos of which are presented below, is translated as made to order.
They are further divided into a number of subspecies, the features of which will be discussed below. This designation is inherent in machines that are produced in a strictly limited series or in single copies. Often, such versions are created by folk craftsmen who combine the characteristics of various representatives of two-wheeled vehicles in one bike. This allows you to satisfy all the “whims” of demanding buyers and collectors. There is an assumption that the “custom” category includes motorcycles assembled by the owner or supplier, which have unique parameters and exterior.

Popular mass-producers in this area include Harley Davidson and Honda. But a unit from any manufacturer can be remade in such a way that it is classified as custom. Among other mass manufacturers of similar models:

  • Bourget.
  • American IronHorse.

The manufacturer offers the buyer several versions of the “iron horse” equipment, including different color options, engine characteristics, and a set of additional options and accessories. In addition, the companies provide a guarantee and service support. Absolute individuality of the bike is unlikely to be achieved, however, the advantages of factory production and safety will be preserved.

Among the disadvantages of custom, the following points are noted:

  • high price of popular modifications;
  • the need to order spare parts individually.
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