Motorcycles, driven by internal combustion engines and steered using handlebars, are two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles known for their agility, speed, and versatility.
They find widespread use in patrols, transporting passengers and goods, and even in sports. Broadly categorized, motorcycles encompass street bikes, road racing motorcycles, off-road bikes, cruisers, touring bikes, and more.
The term "motorcycle engine" commonly refers to an internal combustion engine powered by gasoline. Since its invention by Gottlieb Daimler from Germany in 1885, motorcycles have a history spanning nearly 130 years and have undergone rapid development.
Within the motorcycle community, you often hear about specific models like "Taizi," "Paisai," or "Gaosai." However, these terms are informal and don't exist within the international classification of motorcycle models. For those new to motorcycles, here's a breakdown:
1. Sport Bikes: Often called "Paisai" colloquially or referred to as "racing bikes" in other regions. Their defining feature is the fully enclosed fairing that covers most of the body, creating an elegant, streamlined design. They excel at high-speed performance with separate low handlebars and an aggressive riding posture. Representative models encompass BMW S1000RR, Honda CBR1000RR, Yamaha R1, Kawasaki NINJA, and others.
2. Street Bikes: As the name implies, these bikes are best suited for urban settings. They exhibit a mechanical aesthetic with exposed parts, lack the integrated fairings of racing bikes, offer agile handling, and balance sportiness with comfort, making them ideal for short commutes. Representative models include the Honda CB400, CFMoto 650NK, and Kawasaki Z1000.
3. Touring Bikes: Specifically designed for highway travel, these bikes offer comfort at high speeds and come equipped with various long-distance features like windshields, side panniers, heated handlebars, and sound systems. Apart from robust power, they effectively reduce vibration and enhance comfort. Representative models encompass Honda Gold Wing, BMW K1600GT, CFMoto 650GT, and others.
4. Cruisers: Referred to as "Taizi" informally, this category doesn't officially exist internationally. Regardless of engine displacement, these bikes fall under the umbrella term "cruisers." Representative models include Harley-Davidson, Honda DN-01, and Indian Scout.
5. Off-Road Motorcycles: These are lighter and purer than adventure bikes. With generally higher seats and more extended suspension travel, they minimize unnecessary adornments, aiming to reduce weight. Despite smaller engine displacements, their lightweight and powerful output make them effortless for off-roading, jumping, and overcoming obstacles. Representative models include Honda CRF450, KTM350, and similar others.
6. Adventure Bikes: Adventure bikes are an exciting option if touring feels too leisurely. They retain long-distance capabilities while enhancing suspension systems, sacrificing some entertainment features, and allowing highway cruising and off-road adventures. Representative models include BMW R1200GS, KTM1290, and Zongshen RX4.
Having weathered a century of evolution, motorcycles are progressing towards innovation, more incredible speed, and enhanced safety. The modern motorcycle industry has incorporated advanced technologies, such as eco-friendly engines like the one introduced by Harley-Davidson in their FLHRC-1 model in 1998.
Additionally, concepts like optical communication electronic control systems, radar-based automatic control systems, electronic map navigation systems, and soundless electronics have made modern motorcycles more perfect and awe-inspiring.
