What do you want to get out of riding?

When it comes to motorcycles, the options can be overwhelming. To properly answer the question, “What type of motorcycle should I get?” you need to ask yourself another question: “What do I want to get out of riding a motorcycle?” In particular, you need to consider the purpose, budget, comfort and the level of your riding experience. Your answer will guide you through the maze of choices and lead you to the motorcycle that fits you best. Ideally, a motorbike should not only meet your riding needs but also fulfill your desire for adventure, freedom, or even practicality. Understanding your priorities is the first step towards making a decision.

The following table outlines different types of motorcycles and their key characteristics, helping you understand which motorcycle aligns best with your expectations and riding objectives.

Motorcycle types

If you are just getting into the world of motorcycles, you might be overwhelmed by the huge variety the industry offers. Looking at this long list of bikes, you might be wondering what kind of motorcycle is the right one for you. There are numerous styles, from high-performance sports bikes and dual sport bikes to cruisers and touring bikes. In this guide, we will explore various motorcycle types, weighing their pros and cons, to help you find out your ideal motorcycle.

Standard

When you think of a “regular” motorbike, the standard motorcycle likely comes to mind as the kind you often see on the roads. This category is highly favored by riders for its versatility and flexibility. Unlike specialized bikes, standard motorcycles excel in various scenarios, making them a popular choice. They boast a straightforward design with room for accessories and customizable features. With a moderately powerful engine, this group is suitable for a wide range of riders, including beginners. Standards are like the Swiss Army knives of motorcycles, capable of handling almost any task and suitable for any riding adventure.

Examples: Honda CB500, Yamaha MT Series

Pros: Versatility, comfortable riding position, good for beginners and city commuting, simple and practical

Cons: A minimalist design might not appeal to everyone's sense of aesthetics, doesn’t really grab everyone’s attention, may lack the latest technical features and advancements 

Sportbike

If you are looking to get an adrenaline rush while hitting the open road, then you should definitely consider a sports bike. Today, sports bikes are incredibly popular, especially among younger riders. These high-performance machines are packed with cutting-edge technology that makes them the race cars of the motorcycle world. While they may not be the most comfortable choice for long-distance rides, many riders customize them with softer seats and storage options for extended trips. It's worth noting that sports bikes are not ideal for beginners due to their quick responsiveness and high power. 

Examples: Kawasaki Ninja, Yamaha YZF Series

Pros: High performance, great speed and acceleration, stylish aerodynamic design

Cons: Less comfortable for long rides, higher insurance costs, require high level of competence 

Superbike (Fast Racing)

A “superbike” is in fact a sports bike taken to the next level of performance. These motorcycles are typically more powerful, with some of them boasting 1,000cc and reaching 200 HP or more. Superbikes have a forward-leaning design for better aerodynamics and are full of the latest tech solutions. Although less comfortable for long rides, they offer top-notch handling and can reach speeds over 200 mph. Given their aggressive nature, superbikes are not suitable for beginners looking to get into high-speed racing.  

Examples: Ducati Panigale V4, BMW S1000RR

Pros: Top-tier speed and performance, advanced technology, sporty and stylish 

Cons: Lacks comfort, expensive, not suitable for beginners or everyday use

Streetfighter

At its basics, a streetfighter is a sportbike with removed fairings and minimal bodywork, customized to have a more aggressive style. Real streetfighters are usually modified by motor enthusiasts in garages or small workshops and are rarely manufactured from scratch by larger motorcycle makers. Yet, the trend is getting traction, with more and more producers offering their options in this category. With some touch of imagination, a streetfighter can become a perfect way to get a bike that represents your personal style.

Examples: KTM Duke, Triumph Street Triple

Pros: Highly customizable, aggressive styling, high performance, good for city riding 

Cons: Less comfortable seating, not ideal for long distances, stripped-down style is not for everyone 

Bobber

In fact, a bobber is not a separate type of motorcycle but rather a style of a custom bike.

Essentially, it is a standard motorcycle that has undergone a “bob-job” and had its external parts removed. When you get a bobber, you are choosing a style that highlights the essential features of a motorcycle, with a lowered chassis and often a single seat, creating a distinct and classic appearance. They are often confused with choppers but the key difference of a bobber is its preserved utility and original form of a factory bike. When making a bobber, you get both the heritage and the functionality of the motorcycle in its original design.

Examples: Harley-Davidson Softail Slim, Triumph Bonneville Bobber

Pros: unique vintage style, preserves core functionality of the original bike, can be modified from various bike models

Cons: Less practical, usually not suitable for carrying passengers, shortened or no fenders 

Cruiser

Do you dream of enjoying long, leisurely rides when cruising through city streets? Get yourself a cruiser motorcycle, the perfect companion for those who love the thrill of the open road with comfort as a priority. To ensure maximum comfort on extended journeys, these bikes are designed with a lower seat height and a laid-back riding position. They also feature wide handlebars, a recognizable style and very often, lots of chrome. The lower-speed control and smooth power output make cruisers, especially the light- to medium-weight ones, a great choice for new riders. When you get a cruiser, you are embracing a blend of American motorcycle heritage and modern biking comfort.

Examples: Harley-Davidson Street 750, Indian Chief

Pros: Comfortable for long rides, lower seat height, powerful

Cons: Heavy, not very agile in tight traffic, not super fast 

Chopper

A chopper is another customization style in the world of motorcycles, an iconic symbol of motorcycle culture. Choppers are renowned for their extended forks, stretched frames and shiny chrome detailing. Originally derived from stripping down bikes to their bare essentials, choppers have evolved into artful expressions of individuality. These bikes feature unique, often exaggerated styling, with large front wheels, elongated forks, and distinctive paint jobs. Do you want to stand out in the crowd and get all the attention? Then chopper is your ideal choice. However, they are more suited for experienced riders due to their modified steering geometry and longer wheelbase, which affect handling. 

Examples: Orange County Choppers, West Coast Choppers

Pros: Custom-made to owner’s preferences, iconic style

Cons: Not practical for everyday use, can be expensive

Scooter

Scooters are a practical and efficient sub-type of motorcycles, ideal for city commuting and short trips. Designed with convenience in mind, they are perfect for navigating through urban landscapes, especially in metro areas where high speeds aren't necessary. Scooters offer limited storage, making them suitable for daily errands or quick commutes. They are popular among new riders thanks to their small engine displacement and automatic transmission. These models typically have a top speed of around 30mph, suitable for city travel.

Examples: Vespa GTS, Honda PCX, Sharmax Scooter Force 150

Pros: Excellent for city commuting, easy to ride, fuel-efficient

Cons: Limited speed and power, not for off-road or high-speed highways

Supermoto

A supermoto is a hybrid motorcycle that gets its versatility from a mix of road racing and off-road features. It gets a lightweight frame, similar to an off-road bike, but is outfitted with road-focused suspensions, larger brakes, and slick tires to get a better grip on pavement. Engine sizes range from 250cc to 750cc, offering a balance of power and nimbleness, ideal for getting around the city or hitting the track. This bike stands out with its high ground clearance, a slender build for easy maneuvering, and an upright position, giving riders better control and comfort. Supermotos are especially adept at handling sharp corners, jumps, and various terrains, making them a go-to choice for both fun rides and competitive racing.

Examples: Ducati Hypermotard, Suzuki DR-Z400SM

Pros: Lightweight, great handling, suitable for asphalt and light off-road riding

Cons: Not ideal for long-distance touring, limited luggage space

Scrambler

A scrambler is a versatile motorcycle, known for its unique combination of off-road and street features. Characterized by a high-mounted exhaust, rugged tires and a relaxed riding posture, it's designed for riders who love to get adventurous on varying terrains. Technically, it often goes with a twin or single-cylinder engine, ensuring robust performance with a power range that gets you through tough spots easily. Its suspension is tailored to handle both smooth pavements and rough trails, providing a comfortable ride. The bike's lightweight frame makes it easy to handle, letting riders get a feel of agility and responsiveness. With a minimalistic yet functional design, scramblers get attention for their aesthetic appeal, combining modern engineering with a hint of retro style. 

Examples: Triumph Scrambler, Ducati Scrambler

Pros: Stylish, good on-road and moderate off-road, comfortable riding position

Cons: Not as off-road capable as a dedicated dirt bike

Enduro/Cross-Country

An Enduro motorcycle is a specialized off-road bike, designed for long-distance races and cross-country terrain. It typically features a powerful engine, usually in the 250-450cc range, ensuring riders get ample power for various terrains. Enduro motorbikes have a lightweight frame, making them easier to handle, especially in challenging trails. They come equipped with long-travel suspension systems to absorb shocks, helping riders get a smoother ride over rough surfaces. High ground clearance is a key characteristic, allowing the bike to easily get over obstacles. These motorcycles often have features like large fuel tanks for extended range and protective gear like skid plates and hand guards. Enduro bikes are versatile, able to get onto rough trails and also perform adequately on roads, making them a popular choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Examples: KTM EXC, Yamaha WR250F, Sharmax Power Max 280

Pros: Designed for long off-road trips, good performance on various terrains

Cons: Less comfortable for city riding, requires more maintenance, lack of storage

Dual Sport

A dual sport motorcycle is an incredibly versatile vehicle, blending the best of both urban commuting and off-road adventure. These bikes are typically lightweight, slim, and exceptionally agile, making navigating through city traffic a breeze. They're known for their excellent fuel efficiency and can effortlessly tackle rough, uneven city roads. What sets them apart is their ability to transition seamlessly from pavement to dirt trails - so when the road ends, your journey doesn't have to. They are an excellent choice for those getting into riding. Yet, they can be quite tall, which might be challenging for shorter riders. Before making a purchase, ensure you can comfortably reach the ground, or consider getting a lower seat to enhance your riding position.

Examples: Kawasaki KLR650, Honda CRF250L

Pros: Can be used almost anywhere, great for off-road, lightweight and durable 

Cons: Not as powerful as other types, average performance on highways

Pit bike

A pit bike is a small, off-road motorcycle initially designed for navigating pits at motocross events. With engine sizes ranging from 50cc to 150cc, these 4-stroke bikes are ideal for getting around tight spaces, and despite their modest stature, some models can reach speeds up to 50 mph. Pit bikes have gained popularity beyond racing, being a great choice for recreational riding and learning basic motorcycle skills. Their straightforward mechanics make them easy to maintain, offering beginners a less intimidating way to get into motorcycling. Durable and resilient, pit bikes are an excellent option for those looking to get their feet wet in the world of off-road biking, providing a practical and enjoyable introduction to the sport.

Examples: Kawasaki KLX110, Honda CRF110F, Sharmax Power Max 190

Pros: Small and quite affordable, easy to learn on, cheap to maintain

Cons: Limited use, not suitable for street riding or long distances

Trials bike

This type of motorcycle is specifically built for trials where their main purpose is to navigate pits and various obstacles. They are primarily used in non-speed competitions focused on testing the rider's balance rather than speed. Notably, this category of bikes features a compact size and, interestingly, lacks a seat, as riders typically stand to go through the track. Ideal for riders who enjoy the technical aspects of motorcycling, trial bikes offer an excellent way to improve riding skills, particularly balance and control. Therefore, they may not be the best option for beginners. These bikes are perfect for those looking to get into a unique and skill-focused motorcycling discipline.

Examples: Montesa Cota, GasGas TXT Racing

Pros: Lightweight, highly maneuverable, designed for trial competitions

Cons: Not suitable for regular riding, restricted use, not road-legal

Adventure

Do you dream of going on a long-distance adventure trip? Consider getting an adventure motorcycle, an ideal choice for those who love long rides and exploring new horizons. Adventure bikes come equipped with engines ranging from 650cc to 1200cc, ensuring that you can get through diverse terrains with ease. With features like comfortable seating and larger fuel tanks, they are built to get you farther with minimal stops and less fatigue. The ample storage space is a boon for travelers, allowing you to carry all your essentials for the journey ahead. So, if you are looking to get lost in the thrill of exploration and long for the freedom of the open road, an adventure motorcycle might be your ideal companion. 

Examples: BMW GS Adventure, KTM Adventure

Pros: Suitable for long-distance touring, high comfort, multiple luggage options 

Cons: Can be heavy and expensive, more complex maintenance

Touring Bikes

If you get into motorcycling to quench the thirst for travel and exploration, then a touring bike might be your best solution. Touring motorcycles are built for long, comfortable journeys, offering features like heated seats, powerful audio systems, GPS navigation, ABS brakes, electronic suspension, Bluetooth and intercoms for rider and passenger communication. They are characterized by their large size, robust engines, and substantial carrying capacity, making them ideal for riders looking to get lost in long-distance travel while enjoying a high level of comfort and technology. However, such luxury and capability come at a cost, as touring bikes tend to be on the expensive side. 

Examples: Honda Goldwing, Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic, Sharmax Touring Bike GL 300

Pros: Designed for comfort on long rides, large storage capacity

Cons: Heavy and big, not ideal for city traffic or off-road

Bagger

A bagger is a version of a touring bike fitted with lots of compartments for storage and cargo. This motorcycle is designed for those who love to get out on the open road for long rides. Its defining feature is a wind-deflecting structure, known as a fairing, which efficiently reduces drag, making the journey smoother. These bikes typically boast large displacement engines with substantial torque, ideal for sustained, long-distance travel. The combination of powerful performance, considerable storage, and aerodynamic design makes the bagger a preferred choice for avid tourers. Yet, taking into account all the expensive gear it comes with, a bagger is not for every budget. 

Examples: Indian Chieftain, Harley-Davidson Street Glide

Pros: Good for long trips with comfort and style, ample storage

Cons: expensive, heavy and bulky, not agile in tight spaces

Electric Motorcycles

Electric motorcycles are swiftly becoming the go-to choice for city riders. Their quiet, smooth operation, coupled with often impressive power, makes them ideal for urban commuting. While the initial cost is higher than their gas-powered counterparts, the savings on fuel and engine maintenance balance it out in the long run. These bikes are particularly beginner-friendly, as most models don't require gear shifting, offer easily controllable power output, and are generally less intimidating to ride. However, for longer trips, riders should strategically plan stops for recharging, which takes longer than traditional refueling. Despite this, electric bikes remain a top pick for the eco-conscious urban rider.

Examples: Zero SR/F, Harley-Davidson LiveWire

Pros: Environmentally friendly, low maintenance, easy to handle and very quiet

Cons: Limited range, longer recharging time, higher initial cost

Safety first

To get full advantage of your motorcycling experience, you should always remember about safety on the road. Motorcycles are typically more prone to accidents than other vehicles, that is why taking extra safety precautions is never a bad thing. Apart from following the traffic rules, this also includes equipping yourself with the right gear such as a helmet, which is the most critical piece of safety equipment. A good helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injury in case of an accident. Additionally, invest in high-quality riding jackets, pants, gloves, and boots. These should provide good protection and be suitable for the weather conditions you’ll be riding in. Remember, your skill level is a key factor in safe riding. If you're a beginner, consider taking a motorcycle safety course. Even for experienced riders, advanced riding courses can sharpen skills and introduce new safety techniques.