For many, the roar of a motorcycle engine ignites a lifelong dream of ownership. In developing countries, where transportation is often limited, a motorbike can represent an important step towards independence and opportunity. But beyond that, motorcycles offer a sense of freedom, a thrilling escape from the everyday that resonates with riders around the world.
It’s fun to ride a motor bike and feel the air rustling through your body, bending and twisting the bike at will.
Unlike cars, motorcycles are easy to park, although there may be dedicated parking lots for motorcycles but in some places, such provisions may only be available sometimes.
Motorcycles contribute little to global warming and produce less harm to the environment compared to industrial activities and other types of vehicles.
DID YOU KNOW?
In 2012, American motorcycle stuntman Alex Harvill etched his name in history by achieving the farthest motorcycle jump ever recorded.
Launching himself from a ramp in Royal City, Washington, he covered an incredible distance of 425 feet (129.54 meters)
Here are some of the various types of motorcycles currently available.
Cruiser Motorcycle
Cruisers are powerful motorcycles usually characterized by low seats and lightweight frames.
These motorcycles are good for new riders, experts, and even seasoned pros.
- Examples: Harley-Davidson, Honda Rebel, Yamaha V Star
- Price: $5,000 to $30,000 and above (New) Used bike prices might vary
- Features: Relaxed riding position, low seat height, large displacement engines, V-twin engines, chrome accents
- Characteristics: Comfortable for long rides, powerful engines, not very flexible
Sportbikes
These motorcycles are designed and optimized for speed, good grip on asphalt concrete, braking system, and acceleration. Most models can go over 200 mph. They are usually handled by pros and experts.
- Examples: Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR600RR, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
- Price: $8,000 to $20,000 and above
- Features: Clip-on handlebars, aerodynamic fairings, high-performance engines, powerful brakes
- Characteristics: Designed for speed and handling, uncomfortable for long rides, requires a skilled rider
Standard motorcycle
These motorcycles represent the oldest form or style which various manufacturers have created over the years, it usually have foot controls placed comfortably in front of the rider or just below. These are the commonest motorcycles and are readily available in the used motorcycle market, before buying you can do motorcycle vin check
- Examples: Yamaha MT-07, Honda CB650R, Kawasaki Z900
- Price: $5,000 to $12,000
- Features: Upright riding position, comfortable seating, versatile motorcycles, good balance of power and handling
- Characteristics: All-around motorcycles that are good for commuting, touring, and sport riding
Adventure motorcycle
Commonly referred to as ADV bikes, these special groups of motorcycles are characterized with large-displacement multi-cylinder. They are designed for off-road use and also on-road use. They are capable of covering large distances and provide the rider with comfort.
- Examples: BMW R 1250 GS, KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, Honda Africa Twin
- Price: $10,000 to $20,000 and above
- Features: Long-travel suspension, large fuel tanks, comfortable seating, luggage racks
- Characteristics: Capable of handling both on-road and off-road riding
- Dual Sports & Enduros
Enduro motorcycle
This is a special motorcycle for off road events used in enduros. They are also used in long-distance cross-country racing, trails, and time-trial competitions.
- Examples: KTM EXC-F 250, Honda CRF250L, Kawasaki KLX250
- Price: $4,000 to $8,000
- Features: Lightweight, nimble handling, off-road tires, long-travel suspension
- Characteristics: Designed for off-road riding, but can also be ridden on the street
Dirtbike motorcycle
These bikes are those that are not usually street legal, they are primarily designed for off-road activities, which is why they are called “off-road motorcycles”
- Examples: Yamaha YZ250, Honda CRF450R, Kawasaki KX250
- Price: $5,000 to $10,000
- Features: No lights or turn signals, high-performance engines, aggressive suspension
- Characteristics: Only for off-road use
Electric
Electric motorcycles are bikes powered solely by electricity, The electric motor is typically housed at the front of the back wheel, mounted low on the chassis, and secured by a chain and sprocket assembly. The electric energy generated is used to generate power which is transformed into kinetic energy.
- Examples: Zero SR/S, Harley-Davidson LiveWire, Lightning LS-218
- Price: $10,000 to $30,000 and above
- Features: No emissions, quiet operation, instant torque
- Characteristics: Environmentally friendly, low maintenance costs, limited range compared to gasoline motorcycles
Choppers
Some specific designs of motorcycles are called choppers, we can say that a chopper is a chopped bike. They are primarily bikes created by cutting off the frame of a factory bike and welding it together in a different shape.
- Examples: Harley-Davidson Chopper, Yamaha Road Star Warrior, Honda Fury
- Price: $10,000 to $20,000 and above
- Features: Raked-out front forks, extended handlebars, chopped fenders, stripped-down design
- Characteristics: Custom style, not very comfortable for long rides
Touring
These are special motorcycles designed for both on and off-road activities and long tours. They are dual sport motorcycles that allow long-range touring.
- Examples: Honda Gold Wing, BMW K 1600 GT, Harley-Davidson Road Glide
- Price: $15,000 to $30,000 and above
- Features: Full fairings, large luggage capacity, comfortable seating, wind protection
- Characteristics: Designed for long-distance comfort and convenience
Sport Touring motorcycle
In contrast to a standard sport model, a sport touring variant usually features enhanced wind shielding provided by larger fairings and a customizable windscreen.
It also boasts a transmission geared lower for enhanced performance, a shaft drive replacing the chain drive, as well as side and/or rear pannier storage systems.
Additionally, it is equipped with a larger alternator to accommodate more accessories and includes heated handlebar grips for added comfort.
- Examples: Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki Concours 14, Honda ST1300
- Price: $10,000 to $20,000
- Features: Sporty handling, comfortable seating, luggage capacity, wind protection
- Characteristics: Combines the performance of a sportbike with the comfort of a touring bike
Motorbike VIN check & Essential Tips for Buying a Used Motorcycle
If you are concerned about theft, then know that over 45,000 motorcycles were reported stolen in the U.S. in 2023 (NICB 2023 Motorcycle Theft Report). This is a serious problem because it can land someone in the crossfire of a police investigation.
Want to avoid hidden problems? About 15% of used bikes have undisclosed damage history, including being declared a total loss (Carfax 2023). This too is a matter of serious concern to used car buyers.
Worried about mileage accuracy? Over 1 million vehicles, including motorcycles, have odometer fraud each year (NHTSA 2023 Odometer Fraud Report).
No matter what the problem is, here’s how to buy with confidence: Knowing the bike’s history through a motorcycle history report empowers you to negotiate a fair price based on any revealed issues. It helps you to avoid hidden damage
Ensure accurate mileage and Protect yourself from odometer