Street motorcycles
A street bike is a motorcycle specifically designed for nimble and relatively fast riding in the city or on the highway. One of their distinct characteristics is a moderate power output, with engine capacities starting from 125cc. This type of bike is accessible to both professional athletes and experienced speed enthusiasts. Let’s delve into their variations.
Standard motorcycles
A standard motorcycle is what people usually mean when they say “classic.” If you don't know the Kawasaki W800, you really know nothing about motorcycles. In the same category are the BMW F650CS, Sharmax Street Bike 125, RST 150 Ultra and 175 Ultra. These are motorcycles with modest but sufficient power for the city and countryside. Fans of this type also appreciate models like the Bajaj Platina 110 ABS and a range of other classic, small, and convenient bikes. These motorbikes typically have no fairings, minimal to no windshields, and a more upright body positioning.
Sportbikes (road-legal)
These are high-speed motorcycles, usually with bright colors and a sporty riding position where a rider almost lies on the fuel tank, with foot pegs positioned towards the rear. Keep in mind that, unlike the more relaxed posture you experience on a street bike, adapting to the riding position of a sportbike requires time and patience to find the most comfortable position. These bikes come with sleek fairings, windshields, and the feeling of being a real motorsport athlete. Take, for example, the Sharmax GP 601 Ultra, a stunning representative of this class. Importantly, sportbikes are legal for road use.
Streetfighter (naked sportbike)
Imagine a powerful sportbike stripped of all “unnecessary” elements and decorations. That’s a streetfighter – a real muscle bike in the world of motorcycles. In other words, this is a type of high-performance sportbike with the fairings and windscreen removed. The Sharmax RST 800 LA or RST 750 ULTRA are typical representatives of this category. The main advantage a streetfighter offers is the lightweight design that allows a rider to have a quick take-off and operate at a top speed. A naked bike is pure power, aggression, and acceleration! It's all about the roar of the engine, the strength of metal, and the liberating sensation of the wind in your hair!
Bobber
Bobbers embody a minimalist approach to motorcycle design. In fact, this is a standard motorbike with all of its external features and parts removed. A boober features a low handlebar for improved handling, a reduced-size fuel tank, no rear suspension, and a solo spring-mounted seat. In the past, bobbers were even more bare-bones, lacking a battery, headlights, fenders, parts of the exhaust pipe, windshields, shock absorbers, speedometers, tachometers, and other "extra" parts that added weight. Today's bobbers, however, are high-tech and extremely reliable, still embracing the "nothing extra" philosophy while adhering to all the safety rules of two-wheeled vehicles.
Cruiser
Cruisers are a class of heavy motorcycles characterized by a low vertical riding position, plenty of chromed details and various fairings. While each type of motorcycle has its unique features, cruisers are united by their purpose: they are designed for leisurely, comfortable rides on smooth roads. Beginners might prefer lighter bikes, but experienced riders have long developed a culture around these motorcycles. Let’s delve into the types:
Classic cruiser
Typically, this is a heavy but easy-to-handle motorcycle with a small engine volume, soft shock absorbers, a low handlebar, and a slight tilt of the front fork. Such cruisers have a classic look and are usually equipped with leather saddlebags and backrests. A quintessential example is the Sharmax RR 250, which combines classic shapes, modern materials, and a striking design. Legendary models include the Yamaha Virago, Suzuki Intruder and most Harley Davidson models.
Power cruiser
Also known as "muscle cruisers," these motorbikes boast more horsepower and greater performance. In short, they are cruisers with high-powered engines. These motorcycles can achieve much higher speeds than classic cruisers thanks to altered gear revolutions and torque ratios. These bikes typically feature enhanced brakes and suspension, increased ground clearance for better navigation and high-quality surface finishes. Power cruisers don’t have a standardized look. Examples of these beasts include Yamaha’s classic VMAX and Star Rider, the Sharmax RR 301 Ultra, and the Sahrmax 1000 RST LIMITED which is a custom variation of this type of motorbikes.
Chopper
What distinguishes a classic cruiser from a chopper? Their unique features make them unmistakable. Choppers are known for their trademark long front fork with a significant tilt, small fuel tank and high handlebars. A chopper is a vivid example of a custom motorcycle in which all unnecessary parts are “chopped off” to create an authentic appearance. They look more elongated, lack rear suspension, and require getting used to their specific handling. A chopper can be made out of any brand or can be custom-built from a mix of different parts.
Cafe racer
Cafe racers, or retro street sportbike, gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s in the UK. Back then, the motorbikes were modified by their owners for one purpose: speed and quick rides over short distances. In fact, a cafe racer was a plain motorbike used to drive from one cafe to another along English roads. The distinctive external features of such bikes are easily recognizable: a long and narrow tank and a very low handlebar to lie flat against the tank, thus reducing air resistance. This type of motorcycle is quite light in weight and features a minimalist appearance along with a highly tuned engine.
Sportbikes (track and off-road)
Sportbikes are initially designed for professional racing. They are stripped of any non-essential features and crafted solely for the racetrack. The majority of sportbikes are not allowed to be used on public roads although there are some street-legal versions. These motorbikes are all about speed and agility, with maneuverability and performance being the crucial aspects of sportbike design.
Track-only motorcycles
This is a class of extremely high-speed motorcycles, which utilize the lightest and most reliable materials. They are fully covered with a plastic body to improve aerodynamics. The rider's position is lying down on the fuel tank, with slick tires, a mandatory steering damper, and the absence of a full seat. These motorcycles are exclusively designed for racing on the asphalt of a racing track.
Superbike
Superbike refers both to the motorcycle type and the sport it is used in. They are the most heavily modified motorcycle models. Superbikes are both quick and powerful, featuring an engine of 1000cc with as much horsepower as 200bhp. Essentially, this is a more powerful and technologically advanced sportbike with cutting-edge materials to balance strength and lightness. Athletes perform in special suits that can protect them in the event of an accident that often happens during competitions.
Supermoto
Supermoto is another discipline of motorcycle racing which explains the name of this motorbike type. These motorcycles are used in circuit racing that includes both dirt and asphalt tracks. The purpose pretty much explains their design: smaller wheels, slick or semi-slick road tires that work well both on tarmac and dirt, and larger brakes. Supermoto bikes also have lower, stiffer suspension as they need to be able to land jumps as well. Good examples of a ready-made supermoto are the KTM 690 SMC R and the Husqvarna FS 450.
Dragster
These motorbikes are engineered with one goal in mind: to hit 200mph (320 kmph) in just seconds and beat the competition on a 1/4 mile track. What sets them apart? Custom-built frames, monstrously powerful engines exceeding 1000 horsepower and a distinctive tail design that prevents them from flipping at the start. To achieve top speed, dragsters typically lack front or rear shock absorbers, allowing for reduced weight and increased speed. These beasts are not just motorcycles – they're rockets on two wheels!
Dirt bikes (off-road, motocross and cross-country)
When the road ends, dirt bikes come into play. Built for off-road racing, they are characterized by lightweight frames, powerful engines, long suspension travel, and special knobbly tires. Compared to road motorcycles, they are simpler in construction, have little bodywork, no fairings and high ground clearance. Dirt bike engines are either 2 or 4 strokes and are between 125cc and 1400cc. As a rule, these bikes are not road-legal and can only be driven on off-road trails or tracks.
Motocross
These motorcycles are intended for motorcycle races with the same name. In fact, this is a lighter version of a standard dirt bike built specifically for racing purposes. However, they require a higher degree of maintenance as they usually get heavily exhausted after races. This makes them a bit less durable compared to their counterparts, but the enhanced speed and agility they provide more than compensate for this shortcoming. Popular models to represent this class are the KTM 250 SX-F and Honda CRF450.
Enduro bike
Enduro bikes are the marathon runners of the motorcycle world as they are used in long-distance cross-country rides. Known for their durability, they differ from motocross bikes with features like headlights and lack of fairings. They also have larger gas tanks needed for the longer-distance races. When modified to a certain extent, enduro bikes can be approved for street riding. Models like the Sharmax Expert Pro RXP (250, 320, 450) exemplify this class's endurance and versatility.
Pit bike
A pit bike is a mini-motorcycle, a perfect option for beginners or teenagers. These low-powered bikes are great for learning to navigate rough terrains. In simple terms, a pit bike is a micro clone of a dirt bike in every aspect: they are smaller in size, have less engine power, less suspension and tine wheels. Most pit bikes that are available on the market are four-stroke and typically don’t go beyond the 250cc range. Models like the Sharmax Power Max (125, 145) are ideal for those starting their off-road adventure.
Trials motorcycles
This type of motorcycle is exclusively designed for trials – sport involving the slow navigation of constructed or natural obstacles with significant height variations and complex obstacle edges. They are mainly used in non-speed competitions that are designed to test the balance of the rider rather than speed. What makes this motorbike unique is its combination of sufficient power, extreme lightness and narrow build. Two of the most notable features are the compact size and the lack of a seat.
Dual-sport motorcycles
Also known as crossovers or all-road motorbikes, dual-sport motorcycles are suitable for both on-road and off-road riding. A dual purpose explains why they combine the features of these two motorcycle types: high durability and agility on the one hand and a comfortable seating position on the other. They are great for spending long hours on the saddle and can take a beating if a rider decides to go over rough roads and bumps.
Motard
A Motard is a bike with a very high seating position and spoked wheels equipped with smooth road tires. It features an extremely long suspension travel and a wide handlebar, making it highly maneuverable and easy to control. This is why it is perfectly suited for fast and agile urban riding. Examples include the Sharmax Power Max 250, 320 or Enduro 200, 300.
Adventure
Sometimes called a touring enduro, this is a comfortable motorcycle with an upright seating position, a comfortable seat, sufficient electronics, luggage system and other conveniences that allow for comfortable and enjoyable trips. Such motorbikes are perfect for long distances while still performing well off-road. Vivid examples of this class include the BMW R80G/S, Kawasaki KLR650, the Sharmax Enduro 250 and the Shramax GL (350, 300, 400, 570).
Scrambler
A scrambler is considered the precursor of the dual-purpose motorcycles genre. It originated in the 1920s in the UK as part of a trail riding competition. This bike type is characterized by smaller fuel tanks, lamps and seats that help reduce the overall weight of the machine. A scrambler features high suspension and high-mounted exhausts which makes it suitable for riding not only in the city but also in truly challenging off-road terrain.
Touring bikes (on-road)
Touring motorcycles represent a class of big heavy bikes designed for multi-days rides on a wide open road. They are commonly equipped with fairings and lenses that provide protection against the wind and ensure a comfortable ride on a highway. These motorbikes typically have stronger engines and large-capacity fuel tanks that enable long-distance coverage between fill-ups.
Standard tourers (classic)
The standard version of a touring bike fully encompasses the advantages of an on-road traveling motorbike. The seating for both the rider and passenger is comfortable and upright. Typically, it features complete wind protection, wide and soft seats with a modest backrest, numerous storage compartments for luggage, a sound system, smooth suspension, and a full-dress plastic body. To have an idea of what a tourer is, take a look at the Kawasaki VN Vulcan 1500 or the Honda Gold Wing.
Sport tourers
Tourers are somewhat reminiscent of high-speed racing motorcycles but are still comfortable and highly maneuverable. The motorcycle's low seating ensures comfort, while a powerful engine allows a rider to perform at impressive speed with almost complete wind protection. A bonus is the sports style, an enlarged fuel tank, and advanced technology that makes driving as safe and comfortable as possible. Most popular examples include the Yamaha FJR1300 and the Sharmax SGL 320 and 800.
Bagger
In fact, a bagger is a term used to refer to all motorcycles with large fairings and saddlebags or rigid compartments that contain a lot of stuff for long rides. This explains why they are so heavy and large. Essentially, they are designed for comfortable riding with relatively simple handling and slightly less wind protection. A riding position is upright and relaxed which is good for cruising long-distance routes. Many of the Harley-Davidson models are typical representatives of this bike type.
Low CC motorcycles
We bet that a motorcycle of this category was your very first motorbike. Lightweight and affordable, it doesn't require a special license or a number plate (though this is not always the case), and usually any schoolkid can fix it with just a couple of screwdrivers and pliers. They are not suitable for fast driving on the highway as they are not able to accelerate properly.
Underbone
Probably the most common type of motorbike in the world, especially in Asia. Often compared to a scooter, this is a perfect vehicle to drive around the city thanks to its low fuel consumption, small size and easy handling. In underbone motorcycles, the engine is positioned between the legs of the rider, and these bikes feature step-over frames. Unlike standard motorcycles, underbones lack a central frame backbone that usually contains the fuel tank.
Scooters
A scooter is the type of motorcycle that everyone has seen at least once. These motorbikes are popular all over the world as they offer quick and simple transportation and are very affordable compared to standard bikes. Think about the legendary Vespa model to grasp the idea of a scooter.
Standard scooter
The distinctive features of most scooters include a floorboard for feet and a chair-like seating position. They are lightweight, have a twist-and-go throttle, and are simple to maintain. There are thousands of well-known models and brands: from the famous Lambretta and Aprilia, practical Honda and Suzuki, to young and advanced models from new brands such as the Sharmax Scooter FORCE 150 or NVX 150 EFI.
Maxi Scooters
As the name suggests, it’s a scooter but a bigger one. The seating and the engine types are the same with the only difference in the engine displacement which can go up to 750cc and more. Such a scooter offers more comfort due to its size, allows one to feel confident on high-speed roads, and is suitable for both long journeys and short city rides. Representatives of the classic maxi-scooter include the Honda Forza 750 or the Sharmax FX 150 and 250 Ultra.
Moped
Strictly speaking, a moped is a bike with a low-power engine attached to it, and its name speaks for itself: mo (motor) + ped (pedal). In general, a moped will come with an engine size of 50cc or less, no more than 3 brake horsepower and a top speed of 30 km/h. More often these are models with an automatic transmission that generally look smaller than scooters despite their wheels being larger. Modern mopeds may lack pedals and have a more or less powerful engine, but the form factor is always recognizable.
Other types of motorcycles
The world of motorcycles is so versatile that some of them are hard to fit into any category discussed above. Let’s explore some other types of motorbikes that somehow set themselves apart from their counterparts.
Minibike
While it may look like a child's toy, it boasts impressive capabilities and can comfortably carry an adult rider. In contrast to a scooter, which it is often confused with, a minibike does not have a step-through platform and requires you to swing your legs over to ride it. A typical mini motorcycle comes with a 50cc engine and does not go fast but some models can be rather powerful. For instance, the Sharmax Mini 125 Ultra can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h!
Electric motorcycle
Basically, the type of engine is what makes these bikes different from the motorcycle family: electric motorcycles are powered by a rechargeable battery and electric motors. One of their key advantages is their cost-effectiveness and no emissions. With an e-bike, you can forget about constant gas fill-ups and maintenance as these machines appear to be more durable. Besides, have you seen gasoline prices recently? At the same time, they require good charging infrastructure and it may take up to two hours to get a full charge. Some well-known models of e-vehicles include KTM E-Duke and Kawasaki Z EV.
Trike motorcycle
The clue is in the name: it's a three-wheeled motorcycle. Typically, these are heavy bikes featuring two rear wheels and one front wheel. However, some models flip this design, sporting two wheels in front and one at the back. In terms of size and power, some of these could be more likened to cars than to traditional motorbikes. Classic examples include the Harley-Davidson CVO or the BRP Spyder F3.
Enclosed motorcycle
As for the enclosed motorcycle, you will often find scooters equipped with a roof for urban riding. They're extremely popular in rainy regions. In fact, the roof was initially installed on these vehicles to protect riders from the rain, or in hotter climates, from the sun. Plus, these kinds of motorbikes are often associated with pizza delivery.
Roadsters
Roadsters belong to the all-road category of motorcycles meaning that they perform well on both paved roads and light off-road routes. In essence, a roadster, also known as a “naked bike” is a mixture of a sport and touring bike types. They offer a minimalistic design with an exposed engine and the absence of fairing which makes them light and maneuverable. A typical roadster will have a low seat, an upright riding position, low handlebars and no windscreen. Unlike cruisers, for example, these motorbikes are less suitable for long rides and are mostly used for leisure riding or city commutes. KTM SuperDuke, BMW S1000R and Honda CB1000R are good examples of a roadster motorcycle.
Custom motorcycles
This category of motorcycles is quite diverse and doesn't fit neatly into a single definition. Essentially, it includes everything beyond standard production models. This encompasses bikes built entirely from scratch, where each part is uniquely designed and made for a single instance, as well as modified stock models and limited editions of well-known models straight from the factory.
There are custom versions of traditional models, where changes are mostly cosmetic, and there are those that keep the factory exterior while adding extra engine power, enhancements, electronics, lighting, and other subtle upgrades. In fact, even something as simple as repainting and changing the headlights qualifies as customizing a motorcycle.
Interestingly, much of the variety in today's motorcycle types is the result of customizing basic models. Actually, the above-mentioned motorbike types such as cafe racers, bobbers, choppers, scramblers, or a supermoto are all examples of modified motorcycles.
Types of motorcycles by style
Apart from the purpose-based classification, motorcycles can be divided into groups based on their styles and exterior. In this subcategory, moto enthusiasts outline three main types:
Neoclassic
Neoclassic-style motorcycles represent a fusion of modern technology and classic design. This style offers a contemporary interpretation of the motorcycles that have captivated generations of riders. The appearance of neoclassic-style motorcycles is often inspired by classic models from the 50s and 60s, featuring elegant lines, smooth surfaces, and minimalist design. However, despite their retro appearance, neoclassic bikes come equipped with modern technologies such as ABS, electronic engine management systems, and many more. Most often, a muffler will be located parallel to the road surface and is not pointed up.
Such motorcycles typically feature sleek fairings and low seats, providing the rider with a comfortable riding position. They also offer excellent maneuverability and handling, making them an ideal choice for urban riding. The Sharmax Street Bike 150 is a vibrant example of this motorcycle style.
Modern classic (standard naked)
Standard naked motorcycles feature a classic design without protective fairings. They are characterized by a minimalist and functional look, focusing on performance and handling. Motorbikes of this type usually have an upright seating position, making them comfortable for long rides. They also feature small-displacement engines but excellent aerodynamics, allowing for high speeds and maneuverability on the road. They are popular globally and especially among those who prefer a classic appearance without excessive decoration. Examples of this style include the Sharmax RST 250 and Scooter DELIVERY 80CC.
Retro classic
Retro classic motorcycles recreate the appearance and feel of classic motorcycles from past decades. They blend retro design with modern technology. The appearance of retro classic motorcycles is inspired by models from the 70s and 80s, featuring rounded shapes, chromed details, and vibrant colors. Typical representatives include the BMW R18 and Triumph Thruxton RS. However, beneath this retro exterior, they conceal modern engines, advanced safety systems, and electronic devices. Cafe racers are typical examples of this style.