How to choose a motorcycle

For residents of large cities, a motorcycle is the preferred mode of transport that allows you to move quickly, economically and emotionally even in conditions of heavy traffic and traffic jams. Compared to a car, a motorcycle is cheaper to operate, does not require special costs for storage and finding a parking space, is more economical and many times more effective in emotional terms.

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If yours did not have experience in driving a motorcycle, then we advise you to pay attention to a medium-sized scooter (up to 250 cc). Driving a scooter will help you get used to a two-wheeled vehicle and reduce the risk of injury. We recommend reading this article from an expert on scooter choices for teenagers and adults.

Top motorcycle manufacturers

Among bikers, the products of Japanese and American concerns are traditionally considered the best:

1. Yamaha;

2. Suzuki;

3. Kawasaki;

4. Harley-Davidson;

5. Honda;

In the budget segment of motor vehicles, equipment made in China and other Asian countries began to gain popularity. Having pulled themselves up in terms of quality, manufacturers from the Middle Kingdom still offer affordable prices, which directly affects the popularity of such products among consumers.

Types of motorcycles

Modern two-wheeled vehicles include a great variety of models designed to operate in a wide variety of conditions.

City motorcycles

Two-wheeled vehicles designed for urban use and short country trips. It has compact dimensions and can be used both alone and with a passenger. Landing is always vertical, not involving the execution of sharp maneuvers and accelerations.

Advantages

• Compact dimensions;

• Affordable price;

• Acceptable dynamics;

• Tank with a capacity of 20-25 liters;

• Agile and fast;

• Wheels with developed tread;

disadvantages

• Not suitable for high speed driving;

• Not suitable for long distance travel;

• They are supposed to be operated on asphalt and dirt road;

Sportbikes

Motorcycles for road use. They have aggressive design and aerodynamics. Allows you to move at high speed, while remaining maneuverable. A recumbent landing is assumed to ensure the minimum air drag.

Advantages

• Spectacular appearance;

• Large diameter stable tires;

• Phenomenal dynamic performance;

• Advanced braking system;

• High speed and maneuverability;

• Maximum aerodynamics of the structure;

disadvantages

• Labor intensity of repair and maintenance;

• Minimum size windshield;

• High gas mileage;

• High cost – both of the motorcycle itself and of components and consumables;

Touring motorcycles

Designed and engineered specifically for on-road use and long distance travel. A soft suspension, comfortable seating structure, correct fit and ergonomic handling are the main strengths of this class of motorcycles. A permanent element of the design is the presence of a spacious luggage compartment at the rear of the motorcycle, as well as a high windshield.

Advantages

• High quality frame;

• The presence of a large number of various auxiliary systems;

• Developed luggage compartment;

• High windshield;

• Comfortable suspension;

• Powerful liquid-cooled engines;

• Soft suspension;

• High driving comfort;

• Easily cover long distances;

• Equipped with advanced security systems;

disadvantages

• Expensive;

• Wide turning radius;

• Consumption can reach 10-12 liters of gasoline;

• Large weight;

Motocross motorcycles

Models designed for sporty, off-road and motocross trails. The compact dimensions are combined with a powerful engine, an advanced shock absorber system and powerful mud tires. They do not imply operation on an asphalt surface, and therefore there is no talk of everyday use.

Advantages

• Powerful motors;

• Robust and reliable construction;

• Developed rubber with mud tread;

• Active suspension and shock absorbers with wide travel;

• Compact power frame;

disadvantages

• Not intended for urban use;

• Small capacity tank;

• Noisy;

Motorcycle selection parameters

In order to get the most functional option at your disposal, the purchase of a motorcycle must be considered from the position of a combination of the following factors:

Engine power, type and size

The higher the power, the better the dynamics of the motorcycle. Modern models can develop from 6-8 to 160-170 horsepower, while showing phenomenal dynamic characteristics. It should be remembered that not everyone can cope with powerful motorcycles, and therefore choosing a bike with an engine over 30-40 horsepower is necessary only for those who have enough experience and are confident in their abilities.

Motorcycle engines are available in two-stroke and four-stroke designs. The first is simpler and more reliable, does not have a separate lubrication system and is unpretentious in operation, but it is not very environmentally friendly, consumes a lot of fuel and makes a lot of noise. In turn, four-stroke engines are quieter, more economical and more environmentally friendly, but less reliable and whimsical to service and fuel quality.

Engine displacement is a parameter directly related to power, as well as affecting fuel consumption. Beginners should prefer motorcycles with an engine capacity of no more than 100 cubic centimeters, advanced bikers can focus on 250-500 'cubes' of volume, while professional riders and thrill-seekers will probably choose a sports bike with an 800-1200 cm3 engine.

Maximum developed speed

A parameter that displays the ability to accelerate on a straight and level road. It can vary greatly depending on the type of bike.

1. Cross-country motorcycles are not capable of speeds over 60-70 kilometers per hour;

2. Touring bikes travel without problems at a speed of 120-140 kilometers per hour;

3. A sports bike can be accelerated to 280-300 kilometers per hour under appropriate conditions;

Power reserve

A parameter that is influenced by the power and consumption of the engine, as well as the volume of the fuel tank. Many manufacturers follow the path of the 'golden ratio' and try to achieve the 500 km range figure. This does not apply to motocross bikes, in which case the power reserve is calculated based on the complexity of the race track.

Fuel mixture supply algorithm

1. Carbureted motorcycles are the most budgetary models. Fuel supply is carried out by suction of a special device. It does not always work stably, and its functionality depends on many different factors;

2. The injection system is more fail-safe and ensures the correct mixture formation. As a result, the thrust increases, the dynamics and quality of the engine are improved, regardless of operating conditions. Injectors are installed on models of the middle and upper price range.

Transmission type

The manual transmission allows you to manually shift gears using a special tab. Provides maximum comfort and a complete driving experience. Ideal for racing, track and motocross racing.

The automatic transmission is the choice of those who often drive long distances or operate a motorcycle in the city, without wanting to constantly click gears. It is considered optimal for touring, classic and most sports bikes.

Suspension design

1. The monoshock is a special device installed at the rear in an almost horizontal position. The key feature is a long, about 30 centimeters, suspension travel, which makes it suitable for all kinds of tricks and operation on rough terrain;

2. Telescopic suspension is a sliding construction, the height of which changes when overcoming obstacles and irregularities in such a way that the position of the frame and the rider remains stationary. Widely used in urban and highway models;

3. Spring-loaded struts are a popular suspension type for use on flat asphalt surfaces. It is widely used in touring and road motorcycles, as well as sports bikes;

Features of the brake system

1. Mechanical brakes. Similar to sports bikes. The brake disc is compressed by the pads, which are set in motion using a cable mechanism and hand grips. The simplest system installed on budget models and low-power motorcycles;

2. Drum algorithm. The role of brakes is performed by pads of a semicircular shape, rubbing against the drum. Due to the fact that the pads are inside, protection from precipitation and debris is provided;

3. Disc hydraulic system. As in the case of the mechanical algorithm, braking is carried out by pads rubbing against a special brake disc, but the drive here is not manual, but hydraulic. It is considered the most functional and provides a quick stop at any speed;

The presence and design of the luggage compartment

It is not installed on all bike models and is the prerogative of classic bikes and their touring counterparts. It is one or several containers installed in the rear of the motorcycle and allowing you to carry small hand luggage. A relevant option for those who travel frequently by motorcycle.

Wheel size and construction

The diameter and width of the wheel directly affect the roll and the developed speed, as well as the stability of the motorcycle on poor-quality surfaces.

1. For everyday urban use, wheels with a diameter of 12-14 inches are quite enough;

2. Touring motorcycles intended for long-distance runs involve the use of wheels of 15-16 diameters;

3. High speed sport bikes require 17-19 '' wheels.

What to look for when choosing a bike?

Features of choosing a road bike

A good road bike should have the following features:

1. Engine displacement – 250-500 cm3;

2. Water-cooled four-stroke design;

3. Wheels with a diameter of 12-14 inches;

4. Automatic transmission;

5. Disc hydraulic brakes;

6. Compact luggage compartment for carry-on luggage;

7. Suspension consisting of a spring-loaded fork at the front and a telescopic strut at the rear;

Features of choosing a Chinese motorcycle

The characteristics taken into account when choosing a motorcycle made in China are no different from those taken into account when choosing a model made in Japan or America. Attention should be paid to the above criteria as a whole and the quality of each element separately, comparing the information received with the final cost of the bike. The value of Chinese motorcycles lies in the combination of low price and excellent performance, otherwise a more eminent manufacturer should be preferred.

Choosing a motorcycle for a beginner

There is no point in choosing a powerful and functional motorcycle for a beginner due to lack of operating experience and injury risk as a result. For this reason, the choice should be given in favor of a compact urban motorcycle with an engine of no more than 125 cubic centimeters, equipped with ABS and traction control systems, as well as hydraulic disc brakes and high-quality suspension. It is better to prefer the automatic transmission, which will not allow stalling when starting off or changing gears.

Choosing a motorcycle for travel

In order to feel comfortable on a long trip, preference should be given to motorcycles of the 'tourist' class with a developed luggage system in the rear. The engine must have a volume of at least 750 cubic centimeters in order to provide the ability to perform high-speed maneuvers and overtake large vehicles on highways. Hydraulic brakes, an advanced shock absorber system, anti-lock braking system and cruise control, as well as an automatic transmission are required. And in order not to build your route around gas stations, a capacious tank should be installed on the motorcycle, the volume of which will be 30-35 liters.

Choosing a motocross motorcycle

A motocross motorcycle is a device designed for use in specific conditions, and therefore its key features are:

1. Engine with a volume of 250-500 cubic centimeters;

2. Powerful short frame;

3. An advanced shock absorber system that allows you to perform various tricks;

4. Manual transmission;

5. Powerful mud rubber with a developed tread;

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.