Different Types of Motorcycles: A Simple Guide
This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click and buy, we may receive a small commission (at zero cost to you). Please see our full disclosure policy for details.
When it comes to motorcycle riding, no two motorcycles are the same. From speed and power to design and comfort – different types of motorcycles offer their own unique advantages for riders. But with such a vast selection of models on the market today, which one is best for you?
In this guide, we will explore some of the most popular types of motorcycles currently available, from Cruisers to Sport Bikes and beyond. We will discuss their key features and characteristics so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Guide to Types of Motorcycles
There are three types of motorcycles: moped, cruiser, and motorcycle. We have nine types of motorcycles based on functions, structure, use, price, and jurisdiction. In this post, we’ll provide insight into what and how to choose when you’re buying motorcycles.
Motorcycle types include standard, moped, cruiser, touring, scooter, off-road, sportbike, dual sport, and sport touring. Let’s discuss each of them in detail.
1. Standard Motorcycle
Your guide to motorcycles starts with the standard type of motorcycle. It’s the most common, with the most straightforward design suited for all purposes. Its features include:
- Engine displacement: 125cc up to 1,000cc.
- A tank bag
- Short and medium-range seat height
- Pretty neutral ergonomics.
- It’s not very forward-leaning or rearward-reclining.
Recommendation
Yamaha SR400 is an excellent example of a standard motorcycle.
2. Cruiser Motorcycle Type
Also known as a chopper, the cruiser is essentially the perfect motorcycle for cruising. A popular question people ask me is – Cruiser vs. Touring: What are the differences? Click here for an article that will help you understand the difference. It is designed with the following features:
- Lower Seat height than standard-type motorcycles
- Varied displacement engine sizes (from small to 1,000cc or more)
- When you imagine a cruiser (specifically a chopper), Harley-Davidson may be the first
- Travel long miles
- Multiple accessories
Recommendation
Harley Davidson offers the best cruiser in the market. Consider the H-D Low Rider.
3. Sport Bike Motorcycle Type
If you need speed and agility, then sport bikes are the ideal option. It boasts the following features:
- Forward-leaning ergonomics
- Perfect for speed and agility
- Lightweight (manufactured from light materials, like aluminum)
- Easy to maneuver
- Taller seat height
- It boasts power and comfort
Recommendation
Check out Suzuki GSXR600 for your sport bike motorcycle.
4. Touring Motorcycle Type
The touring type of motorcycle features the hugest body structure among other motorcycle types. A popular question people ask me is – Touring vs. Cruiser: What are the differences? Click here for an article that will help you understand the difference. Popular for its cross-country touring power, touring features the following attractions:
- A large amount of storage
- Easy ergonomics for a longer one-stretch ride
- Massive fairings to ward off wind and weather
- Displacement engine sizes
- Great for highway speeds
Recommendation
Honda Goldwing is the rand to consider when looking for an excellent touring-type of motorcycle
5. Sport Touring Motorcycle Type
The Sport Touring motorcycles are the typical go-to when you’re looking for a perfect blend of Sport and Touring. Check out their features here:
- Seat taller than a Touring motorcycle
- Better luggage options for hauling extra gear.
- Small and mid-range displacement engine sizes
- It covers a lot of miles
Recommendation
You can check out Kawasaki products, like the Concours14 ABS.
6. Dual Sport Motorcycle Type
If you need a motorcycle type (with knobby off-road tires) capable of doing anything, plying any road, or covering any distance, then consider Dual Sports. Known also as Dual purpose or adventure sport motorcycle, the dual sport features the following:
- Aggressive off-road suspension
- A slightly taller seat height
- Limited storage options
- Blends sporty look with off-road capability
Recommendation
The KTM 1090 Adventure R offers the best for you for all your weekend adventures and workouts
7. Scooter Motorcycle Type
Style and safety get a new name under Scooter-type motorcycle. Many consider a scooter, not a real motorcycle, but they offer security and elegant design. A motorcycle can be classified as a different category if you want, so here is the difference between Scooter vs. Motorcycle. Let’s consider the buyer’s guide for a scooter:
- Best for a metropolitan trip, not highways
- Lightweight
- Closer to the ground, making maneuvering easier.
- Displace engine sizes between 50cc and 500cc.
- Offers smaller fairing against wind and weather
- Limited storage for a few items
Recommendation
The Honda Ruckus is a popular brand for Scooters.
8. Moped Motorcycle Type
Modern-day motorcycle enthusiasts in the United States may not be familiar with the moped because it is becoming harder to find. If you want, a motorcycle can be classified as a different category, so here is the difference between a Moped and Motorcycle. It features:
- Small displacement engine size of 50cc or less
- Lightweight
- Limited power, fairing, and storage options
Recommendation
Because of the design and style that looks like a scooter, few brands make it. However, the TaoTao brand makes the Titan 50, a perfect moped.
Just as the name sounds, off-road motorcycles aren’t the common types of motorcycles you see around. Why? They go where no vehicle wants to go; they ply the roughest, riskiest, and most dangerous path other motorcycles dread.
In terms of features, off-road motorcycles are known for the following:
- Tall seat heights
- Deeper brush and higher suspension
- Lightweight
- High-speed transmission
- No turn signals or lights
- Perfect for climbing hills.
Recommendation
Check out Kawasaki’s KLX110. It comes with a 4-speed transmission and no clutch.
Final Thoughts
While our guides to types of motorcycles open you up to the specific details of each type of motorcycle in the market, your preference gets you what kind of motorcycle you desire.
Read More
- 20 Best Beginner Motorcycles
- 6 Best Dual Sport Motorcycles (Review)
- 6 Best Touring Motorcycles (Review)
- 10 Best Automatic Motorcycles
