Motorcycle: Difference between revisions
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{{Use British English|date=January 2020}} | {{Use British English|date=January 2020}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}} | {{Use dmy dates|date=September 2020}} | ||
{{Infobox machine | |||
[[ | | name = Motorcycle | ||
| image = Kawasaki Ninja 400 KRT Edition (facelift model) right side.jpg | |||
| caption = A post-2022 model of the [[Kawasaki Ninja 400]] | |||
| classification = [[Vehicle]] | |||
| application = [[Transportation]] | |||
| fuel_source = {{ubl|[[Gasoline]] (most common)|[[Electric battery]]|[[Diesel fuel]]}} | |||
| powered = Yes | |||
| self-propelled = Yes | |||
| wheels = 2 (rarely 3 or 4) | |||
| invented = 1885 | |||
| inventor = [[Gottlieb Daimler]] | |||
}} | |||
A '''motorcycle''' ('''motorbike''', '''bike''' | A '''motorcycle''' ('''motorbike''', '''bike''', or, if three-wheeled, a '''trike''') is a two or three-wheeled [[motor vehicle]] [[Steering|steered]] by a [[Motorcycle handlebar|handlebar]] from a saddle-style seat.<ref name=definitions/><ref>{{Cite web|title=Motorcycle|url=https://www.britannica.com/technology/motorcycle|access-date=29 August 2020|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|archive-date=20 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120220629/https://www.britannica.com/technology/motorcycle|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=1 October 2010|title=Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR 571.3 — Definitions|url=https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/CFR-2010-title49-vol6/CFR-2010-title49-vol6-sec571-3/summary|access-date=29 August 2020|website=govinfo|page=239|quote=Motorcycle means a motor vehicle with motive power having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.|archive-date=27 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127062722/https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/CFR-2010-title49-vol6/CFR-2010-title49-vol6-sec571-3/summary|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
Motorcycle designs vary greatly to suit a range of different purposes: [[Long-distance motorcycle riding|long-distance]] travel, [[Motorcycle commuting|commuting]], [[cruising (driving)|cruising]], [[Motorcycle sport|sport]] (including [[Motorcycle racing|racing]]), and [[Off-roading|off-road]] riding. [[Motorcycling]] is riding a motorcycle and being involved in other related social activities such as joining a [[motorcycle club]] and attending [[motorcycle rally|motorcycle rallies]]. | Motorcycle designs vary greatly to suit a range of different purposes: [[Long-distance motorcycle riding|long-distance]] travel, [[Motorcycle commuting|commuting]], [[cruising (driving)|cruising]], [[Motorcycle sport|sport]] (including [[Motorcycle racing|racing]]), and [[Off-roading|off-road]] riding. [[Motorcycling]] is riding a motorcycle and being involved in other related social activities such as joining a [[motorcycle club]] and attending [[motorcycle rally|motorcycle rallies]]. | ||
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Globally, motorcycles are comparable numerically to cars as a method of transport: in 2021, approximately 58.6 million new motorcycles were sold around the world, while 66.7 million cars were sold over the same period.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Global car sales 2010–2021 |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/200002/international-car-sales-since-1990/ |access-date=2022-05-04 |website=Statista |language=en |archive-date=29 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220429162924/https://www.statista.com/statistics/200002/international-car-sales-since-1990/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | Globally, motorcycles are comparable numerically to cars as a method of transport: in 2021, approximately 58.6 million new motorcycles were sold around the world, while 66.7 million cars were sold over the same period.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Global car sales 2010–2021 |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/200002/international-car-sales-since-1990/ |access-date=2022-05-04 |website=Statista |language=en |archive-date=29 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220429162924/https://www.statista.com/statistics/200002/international-car-sales-since-1990/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
In 2022, the top four motorcycle producers by volume and type were [[Honda]], [[Yamaha Motor Company|Yamaha]], [[Kawasaki motorcycles|Kawasaki]], and [[Suzuki]]. | In 2022, the top four motorcycle producers by volume and type were [[Honda]], [[Yamaha Motor Company|Yamaha]], [[Kawasaki motorcycles|Kawasaki]], and [[Suzuki]]. According to the [[United States Department of Transportation|US Department of Transportation]], the number of fatalities per [[vehicle]] mile traveled was 37 times higher for motorcycles than for cars.<ref name="www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov">{{cite web |title=Traffic safety facts, 2008. Report no. DOT HS-811-159 |publisher=NHTSA's National Center for Statistics and Analysis |year=2008 |url=http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/pubs/811159.pdf |access-date=15 September 2010 |archive-date=4 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100704221255/http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811159.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> | ||
==Types== | ==Types== | ||
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By 1920, Harley-Davidson was the largest manufacturer,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pcmotors.com/harley.html|title=History of Harley-Davidson Motor Company|website=pcmotors.com|access-date=25 February 2020|archive-date=25 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225233333/https://pcmotors.com/harley.html|url-status=live}}</ref> with their motorcycles being sold by dealers in 67 countries.<ref>{{Cite news |title=HOG WILD; U of T professor Brendan Calder is one of the legions of baby boomers who have helped to ensure the success of the Harley-Davidson brand name, not to mention its bottom line. |first=Sharda |last=Prashad |periodical=Toronto Star |location=Toronto, Ont. |date=16 April 2006 |page=A.16 |url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/438968474 |access-date=7 July 2017 |archive-date=30 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630220939/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/doc/438968474.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=&author=&pub=&edition=&startpage=&desc= |id={{ProQuest|438968474}} |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Harley-Davidson at 100 |first=Jeremy |last=Cato |periodical=Vancouver Sun|location=Vancouver, B.C. |date=8 August 2003 |page=E.1.Fro }}</ref> | By 1920, Harley-Davidson was the largest manufacturer,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://pcmotors.com/harley.html|title=History of Harley-Davidson Motor Company|website=pcmotors.com|access-date=25 February 2020|archive-date=25 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225233333/https://pcmotors.com/harley.html|url-status=live}}</ref> with their motorcycles being sold by dealers in 67 countries.<ref>{{Cite news |title=HOG WILD; U of T professor Brendan Calder is one of the legions of baby boomers who have helped to ensure the success of the Harley-Davidson brand name, not to mention its bottom line. |first=Sharda |last=Prashad |periodical=Toronto Star |location=Toronto, Ont. |date=16 April 2006 |page=A.16 |url=https://www.proquest.com/docview/438968474 |access-date=7 July 2017 |archive-date=30 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630220939/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/thestar/doc/438968474.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=&author=&pub=&edition=&startpage=&desc= |id={{ProQuest|438968474}} |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Harley-Davidson at 100 |first=Jeremy |last=Cato |periodical=Vancouver Sun|location=Vancouver, B.C. |date=8 August 2003 |page=E.1.Fro }}</ref> | ||
Amongst many British motorcycle manufacturers, Chater-Lea with its twin-cylinder models followed by its large singles in the 1920s stood out. Initially, using converted | Amongst many British motorcycle manufacturers, Chater-Lea with its twin-cylinder models followed by its large singles in the 1920s stood out. Initially, using a converted Woodmann-designed OHV Blackburne engine, it became the first 350 cc to exceed {{convert|100|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}, recording {{convert|100.81|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} over the flying kilometre during April 1924.[7] Later, Chater-Lea set a world record for the flying kilometre for 350 cc and 500 cc motorcycles at {{convert|102.9|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} for the firm. Chater-Lea produced variants of these world-beating sports models and became popular among racers at the Isle of Man TT. Today, the firm is probably best remembered for its long-term contract to manufacture and supply AA Patrol motorcycles and sidecars.{{citation needed|date=November 2019}} | ||
By the late 1920s or early 1930s, [[DKW]] in Germany took over as the largest manufacturer.<ref>{{cite web |last=Vance |first=Bill |url=http://www.autos.ca/classic-cars/motoring-memories-dkw-auto-union-1928-1966/ |work=Canadian Driver |title=Motoring Memories: DKW/Auto Union, 1928–1966 |date=24 April 2009 |access-date=17 May 2014 |archive-date=25 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225174552/http://www.autos.ca/classic-cars/motoring-memories-dkw-auto-union-1928-1966/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{sfn|de Cet |2002|p=128}}{{sfn|Walker|1999|p=61}} | By the late 1920s or early 1930s, [[DKW]] in Germany took over as the largest manufacturer.<ref>{{cite web |last=Vance |first=Bill |url=http://www.autos.ca/classic-cars/motoring-memories-dkw-auto-union-1928-1966/ |work=Canadian Driver |title=Motoring Memories: DKW/Auto Union, 1928–1966 |date=24 April 2009 |access-date=17 May 2014 |archive-date=25 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225174552/http://www.autos.ca/classic-cars/motoring-memories-dkw-auto-union-1928-1966/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{sfn|de Cet |2002|p=128}}{{sfn|Walker|1999|p=61}} | ||
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===Fuel economy=== | ===Fuel economy=== | ||
Motorcycle fuel economy varies greatly with engine displacement and riding style. | Motorcycle fuel economy varies greatly with engine displacement and riding style. A streamlined, fully faired Matzu Matsuzawa Honda XL125 achieved {{convert|470|mpgus|abbr=on}} in the [[Craig Vetter Fuel Economy Challenge]] "on real highways{{spaced ndash}} in real conditions".<ref name="Doing More with Less Energy">{{cite web|last=Vetter|first=Craig|author-link=Craig Vetter|title=Doing More with Less Energy|work=The Craig Vetter Fuel Economy Contests – 1980 through 1985|url=http://www.craigvetter.com/pages/470MPG/470MPG%20Main.html |access-date=15 August 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060822071250/http://www.craigvetter.com/pages/470MPG/470MPG%20Main.html|archive-date=22 August 2006}}</ref> | ||
Due to low engine displacements ({{cvt|100|–|200|cc|cuin}}), and high power-to-mass ratios, motorcycles offer good fuel economy. Under conditions of fuel scarcity like 1950s Britain and modern developing nations, motorcycles claim large shares of the vehicle market. In the United States, the average motorcycle fuel economy is 44 miles per US gallon (19 km per liter).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://afdc.energy.gov/data/10310|title=Alternative Fuels Data Center: Maps and Data - Average Fuel Economy by Major Vehicle Category|access-date=2 March 2021|archive-date=4 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304222456/https://afdc.energy.gov/data/10310|url-status=live}}</ref> | Due to low engine displacements ({{cvt|100|–|200|cc|cuin}}), and high power-to-mass ratios, motorcycles offer good fuel economy. Under conditions of fuel scarcity like 1950s Britain and modern developing nations, motorcycles claim large shares of the vehicle market. In the United States, the average motorcycle fuel economy is 44 miles per US gallon (19 km per liter).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://afdc.energy.gov/data/10310|title=Alternative Fuels Data Center: Maps and Data - Average Fuel Economy by Major Vehicle Category|access-date=2 March 2021|archive-date=4 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304222456/https://afdc.energy.gov/data/10310|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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{{Main|Motorcycle safety|Motorcycle safety clothing}} | {{Main|Motorcycle safety|Motorcycle safety clothing}} | ||
[[File:Modular-helmet.jpg|thumb|Wearing a motorcycle helmet (which is a legal requirement in many countries) reduces the risks of death or head injury in a motorcycle crash.]] | [[File:Modular-helmet.jpg|thumb|Wearing a motorcycle helmet (which is a legal requirement in many countries) reduces the risks of death or head injury in a motorcycle crash.]] | ||
Motorcycles have a higher rate of fatal accidents than automobiles or trucks and buses. [[United States Department of Transportation]] data for 2005 from the [[Fatality Analysis Reporting System]] show that for passenger cars, 18.62 fatal crashes occur per 100,000 registered vehicles. For motorcycles this figure is | Motorcycles have a higher rate of fatal accidents than automobiles or trucks and buses. [[United States Department of Transportation]] data for 2005 from the [[Fatality Analysis Reporting System]] show that for passenger cars, 18.62 fatal crashes occur per 100,000 registered vehicles. For motorcycles this figure is 75.19 per 100,000 registered vehicles{{spaced ndash}} four times higher than for cars.<ref name="FARS trends">{{cite web |publisher= [[United States Department of Transportation]] |work= [[Fatality Analysis Reporting System]] |title= Vehicles Involved in Fatal Crashes, 1994–2011 – State: USA |url= https://www-fars.nhtsa.dot.gov/Trends/TrendsGeneral.aspx |access-date= 18 May 2014 |archive-date= 15 March 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150315002919/http://www-fars.nhtsa.dot.gov/Trends/TrendsGeneral.aspx |url-status= live }}</ref> | ||
The same data shows that 1.56 fatalities occur per 100 million vehicle miles travelled for passenger cars, whereas for motorcycles the figure is 43.47 which is 28 times higher than for cars (37 times more deaths per mile travelled in 2007).<ref name="www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov"/> | The same data shows that 1.56 fatalities occur per 100 million vehicle miles travelled for passenger cars, whereas for motorcycles the figure is 43.47 which is 28 times higher than for cars (37 times more deaths per mile travelled in 2007).<ref name="www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov"/> Motorcycle accident rates have increased significantly since the end of the 1990s, while the rates have dropped for passenger cars. | ||
The most common | The most common scenario for motorcycle accidents in the United States is a motorist pulling out or turning in front of a motorcyclist, violating their right-of-way.<ref>{{cite web |date=1981 |title=MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT CAUSE FACTORS AND IDENTIFICATION OF COUNTERMEASURES VOLUME I: TECHNICAL REPORT, Traffic Safety Center - University of Southern California |url=http://isddc.dot.gov/OLPFiles/NHTSA/013695.pdf |page=416 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140823225106/http://isddc.dot.gov/OLPFiles/NHTSA/013695.pdf |archive-date=23 August 2014}}</ref> This is sometimes called a {{linktext|SMIDSY}}, an acronym for the motorists' common response of "Sorry mate, I didn't see you".<ref>{{cite web |title=The 'sorry mate I didn't see you' campaign |work=South Gloucestershire Council |url=http://www.southglos.gov.uk/TransportandRoads/Motorcycling/SorryMateIDidntSeeYou/ |access-date=21 May 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081017045041/http://www.southglos.gov.uk/TransportandRoads/Motorcycling/SorryMateIDidntSeeYou/ |archive-date=17 October 2008}}</ref> Motorcyclists can anticipate and avoid some of these crashes with proper training, increasing their visibility to other traffic, keeping to the speed limits, and not consuming [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] or other [[drug]]s before riding.<ref>{{citation |publisher=[[Motorcycle Safety Foundation]] |title=Quick Tips: General guidelines for riding a motorcycle safely |access-date=13 June 2012 |date=October 2006 |url=http://msf-usa.org/downloads/If_you_ride_a_motorcycle.pdf |archive-date=30 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120730103821/http://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/If_you_ride_a_motorcycle.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
Motorcyclists can anticipate and avoid some of these crashes with proper training, increasing their visibility to other traffic, keeping to the speed limits, and not consuming [[alcohol (drug)|alcohol]] or other [[drug]]s before riding.<ref>{{citation |publisher=[[Motorcycle Safety Foundation]] |title=Quick Tips: General guidelines for riding a motorcycle safely |access-date=13 June 2012 |date=October 2006 |url=http://msf-usa.org/downloads/If_you_ride_a_motorcycle.pdf |archive-date=30 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120730103821/http://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/If_you_ride_a_motorcycle.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
The United Kingdom has several organisations dedicated to improving motorcycle safety by providing advanced rider training beyond what is necessary to pass the basic motorcycle licence test. These include the [[Institute of Advanced Motorists]] (IAM) and the [[Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents]] (RoSPA). Along with increased personal safety, riders with these advanced qualifications may benefit from reduced insurance costs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://think.direct.gov.uk/motorcycle-training.html|title=Motorcycling : THINK! : Roadsafety|website=think.direct.gov.uk|access-date=2016-06-01|archive-date=22 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522023759/http://think.direct.gov.uk/motorcycle-training.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | The United Kingdom has several organisations dedicated to improving motorcycle safety by providing advanced rider training beyond what is necessary to pass the basic motorcycle licence test. These include the [[Institute of Advanced Motorists]] (IAM) and the [[Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents]] (RoSPA). Along with increased personal safety, riders with these advanced qualifications may benefit from reduced insurance costs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://think.direct.gov.uk/motorcycle-training.html|title=Motorcycling : THINK! : Roadsafety|website=think.direct.gov.uk|access-date=2016-06-01|archive-date=22 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522023759/http://think.direct.gov.uk/motorcycle-training.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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In South Africa, the [[Think Bike]] campaign is dedicated to increasing both motorcycle safety and the awareness of motorcycles on the country's roads. The campaign, while strongest in the Gauteng province, has representation in Western Cape, KwaZulu Natal and the Free State. It has dozens of trained marshals available for various events such as cycle races and is deeply involved in numerous other projects such as the annual Motorcycle Toy Run.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://thinkbike.co.za/2012/index.php/about-us |title=About Think Bike |publisher=[[Think Bike]] |access-date=21 March 2010 |archive-date=8 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208075840/http://thinkbike.co.za/2012/index.php/about-us |url-status=dead }}</ref> | In South Africa, the [[Think Bike]] campaign is dedicated to increasing both motorcycle safety and the awareness of motorcycles on the country's roads. The campaign, while strongest in the Gauteng province, has representation in Western Cape, KwaZulu Natal and the Free State. It has dozens of trained marshals available for various events such as cycle races and is deeply involved in numerous other projects such as the annual Motorcycle Toy Run.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://thinkbike.co.za/2012/index.php/about-us |title=About Think Bike |publisher=[[Think Bike]] |access-date=21 March 2010 |archive-date=8 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208075840/http://thinkbike.co.za/2012/index.php/about-us |url-status=dead }}</ref> | ||
Motorcycle safety education is offered throughout the United States by organisations | Motorcycle safety education is offered throughout the United States by organisations including state agencies, non-profit organisations, and corporations. Most states use the courses designed by the [[Motorcycle Safety Foundation]] (MSF), while [[Team Oregon|Oregon]] and Idaho developed their own. All of the training programs include a Basic Rider Course, an Intermediate Rider Course and an Advanced Rider Course. | ||
[[File:Action-w.jpg|thumb|An MSF rider course for novices]] | [[File:Action-w.jpg|thumb|An MSF rider course for novices]] | ||
In [[Republic of Ireland|Ireland]], since 2010,<ref>{{cite web |title=GDL rollout |publisher=Road Safety Association of Ireland |url=http://www.rsa.ie/en/RSA/Learner-Drivers/Driver-Training/Graduated-Driver-Licensing/GDL-rollout |access-date=2015-08-15 |archive-date=29 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150729013953/http://rsa.ie/en/RSA/Learner-Drivers/Driver-Training/Graduated-Driver-Licensing/GDL-rollout/ |url-status=live }}</ref> in the UK and some Australian jurisdictions, such as [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]], [[New South Wales]],<ref name="Learner riders licence">{{cite web |title=Learner riders licence |work=Motorcycle Rider Training Scheme, Roads and Traffic Authority, NSW |url=http://163.189.217.150/licensing/tests/motorcycleridertrainingscheme/learnerriderslicence.html |access-date=16 May 2007 |archive-date=2 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110302033156/http://163.189.217.150/licensing/tests/motorcycleridertrainingscheme/learnerriderslicence.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> | In [[Republic of Ireland|Ireland]], since 2010,<ref>{{cite web |title=GDL rollout |publisher=Road Safety Association of Ireland |url=http://www.rsa.ie/en/RSA/Learner-Drivers/Driver-Training/Graduated-Driver-Licensing/GDL-rollout |access-date=2015-08-15 |archive-date=29 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150729013953/http://rsa.ie/en/RSA/Learner-Drivers/Driver-Training/Graduated-Driver-Licensing/GDL-rollout/ |url-status=live }}</ref> in the UK and some Australian jurisdictions, such as [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]], [[New South Wales]],<ref name="Learner riders licence">{{cite web |title=Learner riders licence |work=Motorcycle Rider Training Scheme, Roads and Traffic Authority, NSW |url=http://163.189.217.150/licensing/tests/motorcycleridertrainingscheme/learnerriderslicence.html |access-date=16 May 2007 |archive-date=2 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110302033156/http://163.189.217.150/licensing/tests/motorcycleridertrainingscheme/learnerriderslicence.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> the [[Australian Capital Territory]],<ref name="Learner Licence">{{cite web |title=Learner Licence |work=Road Transport Information Management, www.rego.act.gov.au |url=http://www.rego.act.gov.au/licensing/licencelearner.htm |access-date=16 May 2007 |archive-date=17 May 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070517154219/http://www.rego.act.gov.au/licensing/licencelearner.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Tasmania]]<ref name="TAS Learner Licence">{{cite web |title=TAS Learner Licence |work=Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources |url=http://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licence_information |access-date=13 June 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090611204707/http://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licence_information |archive-date=11 June 2009}}</ref> | ||
the [[Australian Capital Territory]],<ref name="Learner Licence">{{cite web |title=Learner Licence |work=Road Transport Information Management, www.rego.act.gov.au |url=http://www.rego.act.gov.au/licensing/licencelearner.htm |access-date=16 May 2007 |archive-date=17 May 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070517154219/http://www.rego.act.gov.au/licensing/licencelearner.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Tasmania]]<ref name="TAS Learner Licence">{{cite web |title=TAS Learner Licence |work=Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources |url=http://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licence_information |access-date=13 June 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090611204707/http://www.transport.tas.gov.au/licence_information |archive-date=11 June 2009}}</ref> | |||
and the [[Northern Territory]],<ref name="Motorcyclist Education Training And Licensing (METAL)">{{cite web|title=Motorcyclist Education Training And Licensing (METAL) |work=Northern Territory Department of Planning and Infrastructure, www.ipe.nt.gov.au |url=http://www.ipe.nt.gov.au/whatwedo/mvr/licensing/metal.html |access-date=16 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070507002029/http://www.ipe.nt.gov.au/whatwedo/mvr/licensing/metal.html |archive-date=7 May 2007 }}</ref> it is compulsory to complete a basic rider training course before being issued a Learners Licence, after which they can ride on public roads. | and the [[Northern Territory]],<ref name="Motorcyclist Education Training And Licensing (METAL)">{{cite web|title=Motorcyclist Education Training And Licensing (METAL) |work=Northern Territory Department of Planning and Infrastructure, www.ipe.nt.gov.au |url=http://www.ipe.nt.gov.au/whatwedo/mvr/licensing/metal.html |access-date=16 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070507002029/http://www.ipe.nt.gov.au/whatwedo/mvr/licensing/metal.html |archive-date=7 May 2007 }}</ref> it is compulsory to complete a basic rider training course before being issued a Learners Licence, after which they can ride on public roads. | ||
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==Customized styles and subcultures== | ==Customized styles and subcultures== | ||
{{ | {{See also|Custom motorcycle|}} | ||
While motorcycles are manufactured in standard styles (sport, cruiser, enduro, etc...), certain styles of motorcycle sub-genres have been both independently created, or manufactured in accordance with a pre-existing cultural style. Styles of note include: [[Café racer]]s, [[Chopper (motorcycle)|Choppers]], and [[Streetfighter (motorcycle)|Streetfighters]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exploring Motorcycling's Sub Cultures |url=http://www.collisionblast.com/2014/08/01/exploring-motorcyclings-sub-cultures/ |access-date=2025-04-01 |website=www.collisionblast.com}}</ref> | While motorcycles are manufactured in standard styles (sport, cruiser, enduro, etc...), certain styles of motorcycle sub-genres have been both independently created, or manufactured in accordance with a pre-existing cultural style. Styles of note include: [[Café racer]]s, [[Chopper (motorcycle)|Choppers]], and [[Streetfighter (motorcycle)|Streetfighters]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exploring Motorcycling's Sub Cultures |url=http://www.collisionblast.com/2014/08/01/exploring-motorcyclings-sub-cultures/ |access-date=2025-04-01 |website=www.collisionblast.com}}</ref> | ||
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This is because many motorcycles lack a [[catalytic converter]], and the [[emission standard]] is much more permissive for motorcycles than for other vehicles.<ref name="LATimesEmissions"/> While catalytic converters have been installed in most gasoline-powered cars and trucks since 1975 in the United States, they can present fitment and heat difficulties in motorcycle applications.<ref name="LATimesEmissions"/> {{better source needed|date=September 2014}} | This is because many motorcycles lack a [[catalytic converter]], and the [[emission standard]] is much more permissive for motorcycles than for other vehicles.<ref name="LATimesEmissions"/> While catalytic converters have been installed in most gasoline-powered cars and trucks since 1975 in the United States, they can present fitment and heat difficulties in motorcycle applications.<ref name="LATimesEmissions"/> {{better source needed|date=September 2014}} | ||
[[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] 2007 certification result reports for all vehicles versus on highway motorcycles (which also includes scooters),<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.epa.gov/otaq/crttst.htm |title= Certified Highway Motorcycle Test Result Report Data (2007) |date= 8 January 2008 |publisher= [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|US EPA]] |access-date= 3 September 2008 |archive-date= 15 July 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080715055537/http://www.epa.gov/otaq/crttst.htm |url-status= | [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] 2007 certification result reports for all vehicles versus on highway motorcycles (which also includes scooters),<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.epa.gov/otaq/crttst.htm |title= Certified Highway Motorcycle Test Result Report Data (2007) |date= 8 January 2008 |publisher= [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|US EPA]] |access-date= 3 September 2008 |archive-date= 15 July 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080715055537/http://www.epa.gov/otaq/crttst.htm |url-status= dead }}</ref> the average certified emissions level for 12,327 vehicles tested was 0.734. The average "Nox+Co End-Of-Useful-Life-Emissions" for 3,863 motorcycles tested was 0.8531. 54% of the tested 2007-model motorcycles were equipped with a catalytic converter. | ||
===United States emissions limits=== | ===United States emissions limits=== | ||
| Line 263: | Line 272: | ||
=== Asia === | === Asia === | ||
In [[Asia]], motorcycles are a common mode of transportation and are putting significant pressure on the region's environment.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2006-12-15 |title=Sustainable Management of Twoand Three-Wheelers in Asia |url=https://theicct.org/sites/default/files/publications/ICCT_Asia23wheelers_2011_1.pdf |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=International Council on Clean Transportation |language=en}}</ref><ref name="challenges-in-addressing-air-pollution-in-large-cities">{{Cite web |title=Challenges in addressing air pollution in large cities |url=https://vietnamnews.vn/society/1663233/challenges-in-addressing-air-pollution-in-large-cities.html |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=vietnamnews.vn |language=en}}</ref> With a massive number of motorcycles, they contribute significantly to [[greenhouse gas emissions]] and [[Air pollution|urban air pollution]].<ref name="challenges-in-addressing-air-pollution-in-large-cities" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sâm |first=Huyền |date=2024-12-18 |title=Kiểm định xe máy từ 5 năm tuổi, có quá sớm? |url=https://kinhtedothi.vn/kiem-dinh-xe-may-tu-5-nam-tuoi-co-qua-som.html |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=Báo Kinh tế đô thị - Đọc tin tức thời sự kinh tế 24h mới nhất |language=vi}}</ref> In [[India]], road transport accounts for about 12% of the country's energy-related | In [[Asia]], motorcycles are a common mode of transportation and are putting significant pressure on the region's environment.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2006-12-15 |title=Sustainable Management of Twoand Three-Wheelers in Asia |url=https://theicct.org/sites/default/files/publications/ICCT_Asia23wheelers_2011_1.pdf |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=International Council on Clean Transportation |language=en}}</ref><ref name="challenges-in-addressing-air-pollution-in-large-cities">{{Cite web |title=Challenges in addressing air pollution in large cities |url=https://vietnamnews.vn/society/1663233/challenges-in-addressing-air-pollution-in-large-cities.html |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=vietnamnews.vn |language=en}}</ref> With a massive number of motorcycles, they contribute significantly to [[greenhouse gas emissions]] and [[Air pollution|urban air pollution]].<ref name="challenges-in-addressing-air-pollution-in-large-cities" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sâm |first=Huyền |date=2024-12-18 |title=Kiểm định xe máy từ 5 năm tuổi, có quá sớm? |url=https://kinhtedothi.vn/kiem-dinh-xe-may-tu-5-nam-tuoi-co-qua-som.html |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=Báo Kinh tế đô thị - Đọc tin tức thời sự kinh tế 24h mới nhất |language=vi}}</ref> In [[India]], road transport accounts for about 12% of the country's energy-related CO<sub>2</sub> emissions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lượng khí thải carbon toàn cầu tăng trở lại gần mức trước đại dịch |url=https://backan.gov.vn/pages/luong-khi-thai-carbon-toan-cau-tang-tro-lai-gan-mu-dbe2.aspx |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=backan.gov.vn}}</ref> In [[Vietnam]], motorcycles contribute up to 87% of the CO emissions and 94% of hydrocarbons (HC) released by vehicles in [[Hanoi]] and [[Ho Chi Minh City]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2024-12-17 |title=Kiểm định khí thải xe máy liên quan đến sức khỏe người dân, không thể chần chừ |url=https://tuoitre.vn/kiem-dinh-khi-thai-xe-may-lien-quan-den-suc-khoe-nguoi-dan-khong-the-chan-chu-20241217085812373.htm#:~:text=C%C5%A9ng%20theo%20th%E1%BB%91ng%20k%C3%AA,%20t%E1%BA%A1i,c%C3%A1c%20lo%E1%BA%A1i%20xe%20c%C6%A1%20gi%E1%BB%9Bi |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=TUOI TRE ONLINE |language=vi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2024-12-17 |title=Kiểm định khí thải xe máy liên quan đến sức khỏe người dân, không thể chần chừ |url=https://tuoitre.vn/kiem-dinh-khi-thai-xe-may-lien-quan-den-suc-khoe-nguoi-dan-khong-the-chan-chu-20241217085812373.htm |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=TUOI TRE ONLINE |language=vi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Tong |first1=Yen Dan |last2=Maraseni |first2=Tek |last3=Nguyen |first3=Phuong-Duy |last4=An-Vo |first4=Duc-Anh |last5=Tradenta |first5=Julio Mancuso |last6=Thuy Ai Dong Tran |date=2024 |title=Potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions savings from replacing short motorcycle trips with active travel modes in Vietnam |journal=Transportation |volume=51 |issue=5 |pages=1999–2018 |doi=10.1007/s11116-023-10394-0 |pmid=37363369 |pmc=10166047 |language=en }}</ref> Environmental studies show that motorcycles in Vietnam contribute approximately 29% of NOx, 90% of CO, 65% of NMVOC, and nearly 38% of PM dust in total traffic emissions.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date= 2 August 2024|title=Kiểm định khí thải xe máy: Xem xét lộ trình cụ thể |url=https://www.sggp.org.vn/kiem-dinh-khi-thai-xe-may-xem-xet-lo-trinh-cu-the-post752158.html#:~:text=Tuy%20nhi%C3%AAn,%20%E1%BB%9F%20g%C3%B3c%20%C4%91%E1%BB%99,ph%C3%A1t%20th%E1%BA%A3i%20b%E1%BB%A5i%20si%C3%AAu%20m%E1%BB%8Bn |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=BÁO SÀI GÒN GIẢI PHÓNG |language=vi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Dinh vi xe may |url=https://dinhvigps.vn/dinh-vi-xe-may |access-date=2025-03-13 |website= |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Tùng |first=Nguyên |date=2019-04-20 |title="Xe máy là nguồn gây ô nhiễm không khí lớn nhất cho TPHCM" |url=https://dantri.com.vn/xa-hoi/xe-may-la-nguon-gay-o-nhiem-khong-khi-lon-nhat-cho-tphcm-20190420083816021.htm |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=Báo điện tử Dân Trí |language=vi}}</ref> In [[Thailand]], gasoline-powered motorcycles are reported to emit significantly higher pollution per kilometer compared to gasoline-powered cars, exacerbating urban smog.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Raphael Salmi |first= |date=2024-03-06 |title=The next two-wheel revolution |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/motoring/2753894/the-next-two-wheel-revolution |access-date=2025-03-13 |work=Bangkok Post |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Evaluation of real-world vehicle emissions and standards in Jakarta |url=https://www.trueinitiative.org/news/2022/november/evaluation-of-real-world-vehicle-emissions-and-standards-in-jakarta |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=The Real Urban Emissions Initiative}}</ref> In [[Singapore]], the NEA reported that while motorcycles account for only 15 percent of vehicles, they contribute to over 53 percent of carbon monoxide emissions from vehicles.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2018-04-12 |title=Owners of older bikes query if they can be behind more than half of vehicle emissions |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/owners-of-older-bikes-query-if-they-can-be-behind-more-than-half-of-vehicle-emissions#:~:text=NEA%20said%20its%20studies%20have,carbon%20monoxide%20emissions%20from%20vehicles. |access-date=2025-03-13 |work=The Straits Times |language=en |issn=0585-3923}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Government To Incentivise De-Registration Of Older, More Pollutive Motorcycles Over Next Five Years, Before Phasing Them Out In 2028 |url=https://www.nea.gov.sg/media/news/news/index/government-to-incentivise-de-registration-of-older-more-pollutive-motorcycles-over-next-five-years-before-phasing-them-out-in-2028 |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=www.nea.gov.sg |language=en}}</ref> | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
| Line 311: | Line 320: | ||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{commons | {{commons}} | ||
{{wikivoyage|Motorcycling}} | {{wikivoyage|Motorcycling}} | ||
{{Prone to spam|date=May 2014}} | {{Prone to spam|date=May 2014}} | ||
Latest revision as of 07:27, 12 November 2025
Template:Short description Template:Hatnote group Template:Use British English Template:Use dmy dates Template:Infobox machine
A motorcycle (motorbike, bike, or, if three-wheeled, a trike) is a two or three-wheeled motor vehicle steered by a handlebar from a saddle-style seat.[1][2][3]
Motorcycle designs vary greatly to suit a range of different purposes: long-distance travel, commuting, cruising, sport (including racing), and off-road riding. Motorcycling is riding a motorcycle and being involved in other related social activities such as joining a motorcycle club and attending motorcycle rallies.
The 1885 Daimler Reitwagen made by Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach in Germany was the first internal combustion petroleum-fueled motorcycle. In 1894, Hildebrand & Wolfmüller became the first series production motorcycle.[4][5]
Globally, motorcycles are comparable numerically to cars as a method of transport: in 2021, approximately 58.6 million new motorcycles were sold around the world, while 66.7 million cars were sold over the same period.[6]
In 2022, the top four motorcycle producers by volume and type were Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki. According to the US Department of Transportation, the number of fatalities per vehicle mile traveled was 37 times higher for motorcycles than for cars.[7]
Types
Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". The term motorcycle has different legal definitions depending on jurisdiction (see Template:Section link).
There are three major types of motorcycle: street, off-road, and dual purpose. Within these types, there are many sub-types of motorcycles for different purposes. There is often a racing counterpart to each type, such as road racing and street bikes, or motocross including dirt bikes.
Street bikes include cruisers, sportbikes, scooters and mopeds, and many other types. Off-road motorcycles include many types designed for dirt-oriented racing classes such as motocross and are not street legal in most areas. Dual purpose machines like the dual-sport style are made to go off-road but include features to make them legal and comfortable on the street as well.
Each configuration offers either specialised advantage or broad capability, and each design creates a different riding posture.
In some countries the use of pillions (rear seats) is restricted.
History
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Experimentation and invention
The first internal combustion, petroleum fueled motorcycle was the Daimler Reitwagen. It was designed and built by the German inventors Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach in Bad Cannstatt, Germany, in 1885.[8] This vehicle was unlike either the safety bicycles or the boneshaker bicycles of the era in that it had zero degrees of steering axis angle and no fork offset, and thus did not use the principles of bicycle and motorcycle dynamics developed nearly 70 years earlier. Instead, it relied on two outrigger wheels to remain upright while turning.Template:Sfn
The inventors called their invention the Reitwagen ("riding car"). It was designed as an expedient testbed for their new engine, rather than a true prototype vehicle.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn
The first commercial design for a self-propelled cycle was a three-wheel design called the Butler Petrol Cycle, conceived of Edward Butler in England in 1884.[9] He exhibited his plans for the vehicle at the Stanley Cycle Show in London in 1884. The vehicle was built by the Merryweather Fire Engine company in Greenwich, in 1888.Template:Sfn
The Butler Petrol Cycle was a three-wheeled vehicle, with the rear wheel directly driven by a Template:Cvt, Template:Cvt displacement, Template:Cvt bore × stroke, flat twin four-stroke engine (with magneto ignition replaced by coil and battery) equipped with rotary valves and a float-fed carburettor (five years before Maybach) and Ackermann steering, all of which were state of the art at the time. Starting was by compressed air. The engine was liquid-cooled, with a radiator over the rear driving wheel. Speed was controlled by means of a throttle valve lever. No braking system was fitted; the vehicle was stopped by raising and lowering the rear driving wheel using a foot-operated lever; the weight of the machine was then borne by two small castor wheels. The driver was seated between the front wheels. It was not, however, a success, as Butler failed to find sufficient financial backing.Template:Sfn
Many authorities have excluded steam powered, electric motorcycles or diesel-powered two-wheelers from the definition of a 'motorcycle', and credit the Daimler Reitwagen as the world's first motorcycle.[10][11]Template:Sfn Given the rapid rise in use of electric motorcycles worldwide,[12] defining only internal-combustion powered two-wheelers as 'motorcycles' is increasingly problematic. The first (petroleum fueled) internal-combustion motorcycles, like the German Reitwagen, were, however, also the first practical motorcycles.[11][13][14]
If a two-wheeled vehicle with steam propulsion is considered a motorcycle, then the first motorcycles built seem to be the French Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede which patent application was filed in December 1868,Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn constructed around the same time as the American Roper steam velocipede, built by Sylvester H. Roper of Roxbury, Massachusetts,Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn who had been demonstrating his machine at fairs and circuses in the eastern U.S. since 1867.[8] Roper built about 10 steam cars and cycles from the 1860s until his death in 1896.Template:Sfn
Summary of early inventions
| Year | Vehicle | Number of wheels | Inventor | Engine type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1867–1868 | Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede | 2 | Pierre Michaux Louis-Guillaume Perreaux |
Steam |
|
| 1867–1868 | Roper steam velocipede | 2 | Sylvester Roper | Steam |
|
| 1885 | Daimler Reitwagen | 2 (plus 2 outriggers) | Gottlieb Daimler Wilhelm Maybach |
Petroleum internal-combustion |
|
| 1887 | Butler Petrol Cycle | 3 (plus 2 castors) | Edward Butler | Petroleum internal-combustion | |
| 1894 | Hildebrand & Wolfmüller | 2 | Heinrich Hildebrand Wilhelm Hildebrand Alois Wolfmüller |
Petroleum internal-combustion |
|
First motorcycle companies
In 1894, Hildebrand & Wolfmüller became the first series production motorcycle, and the first to be called a motorcycle (Template:Langx).Template:SfnTemplate:SfnTemplate:Sfn[15] Excelsior Motor Company, originally a bicycle manufacturing company based in Coventry, England, began production of their first motorcycle model in 1896.
The first production motorcycle in the US was the Orient-Aster, built by Charles Metz in 1898 at his factory in Waltham, Massachusetts.
In the early period of motorcycle history, many producers of bicycles adapted their designs to accommodate the new internal combustion engine. As the engines became more powerful and designs outgrew the bicycle origins, the number of motorcycle producers increased. Many of the nineteenth-century inventors who worked on early motorcycles often moved on to other inventions. Daimler and Roper, for example, both went on to develop automobiles.
At the end of the 19th century the first major mass-production firms were set up. In 1898, Triumph Motorcycles in England began producing motorbikes, and by 1903 it was producing over 500 bikes. Other British firms were Royal Enfield, Norton, Douglas Motorcycles and Birmingham Small Arms Company who began motorbike production in 1899, 1902, 1907 and 1910, respectively.[16] Indian began production in 1901 and Harley-Davidson was established two years later. By the outbreak of World War I, the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world was Indian,Template:Sfn[17] producing over 20,000 bikes per year.[18]
First World War
During the First World War, motorbike production was greatly ramped up for the war effort to supply effective communications with front line troops. Messengers on horses were replaced with despatch riders on motorcycles carrying messages, performing reconnaissance and acting as a military police. American company Harley-Davidson was devoting over 50% of its factory output toward military contract by the end of the war. The British company Triumph Motorcycles sold more than 30,000 of its Triumph Type H model to allied forces during the war. With the rear wheel driven by a belt, the Model H was fitted with a Template:Convert air-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It was also the first Triumph without pedals.[19]Template:Better source needed
The Model H in particular, is regarded by many as having been the first "modern motorcycle".[20] Introduced in 1915 it had a 550 cc side-valve four-stroke engine with a three-speed gearbox and belt transmission. It was so popular with its users that it was nicknamed the "Trusty Triumph".[21]
Postwar
By 1920, Harley-Davidson was the largest manufacturer,[22] with their motorcycles being sold by dealers in 67 countries.[23][24]
Amongst many British motorcycle manufacturers, Chater-Lea with its twin-cylinder models followed by its large singles in the 1920s stood out. Initially, using a converted Woodmann-designed OHV Blackburne engine, it became the first 350 cc to exceed Template:Convert, recording Template:Convert over the flying kilometre during April 1924.[7] Later, Chater-Lea set a world record for the flying kilometre for 350 cc and 500 cc motorcycles at Template:Convert for the firm. Chater-Lea produced variants of these world-beating sports models and became popular among racers at the Isle of Man TT. Today, the firm is probably best remembered for its long-term contract to manufacture and supply AA Patrol motorcycles and sidecars.Script error: No such module "Unsubst".
By the late 1920s or early 1930s, DKW in Germany took over as the largest manufacturer.[25]Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn
In the 1950s, streamlining began to play an increasing part in the development of racing motorcycles and the "dustbin fairing" held out the possibility of radical changes to motorcycle design. NSU and Moto Guzzi were in the vanguard of this development, both producing very radical designs well ahead of their time.Template:Sfn NSU produced the most advanced design, but after the deaths of four NSU riders in the 1954–1956 seasons, they abandoned further development and quit Grand Prix motorcycle racing.[26]
Moto Guzzi produced competitive race machines, and until the end of 1957 had a succession of victories.[27] The following year, 1958, full enclosure fairings were banned from racing by the FIM in the light of the safety concerns.
From the 1960s through the 1990s, small two-stroke motorcycles were popular worldwide, partly as a result of East German MZs Walter Kaaden's engine work in the 1950s.[28]
Today
In the 21st century, the motorcycle industry is mainly dominated by Indian and Japanese motorcycle companies. In addition to the large capacity motorcycles, there is a large market in smaller capacity (less than 300 cc) motorcycles, mostly concentrated in Asian and African countries and produced in China and India.Script error: No such module "Unsubst". A Japanese example is the 1958 Honda Super Cub, which went on to become the biggest selling vehicle of all time, with its 60 millionth unit produced in April 2008.[29] Today, this area is dominated by mostly Indian companies with Hero MotoCorp emerging as the world's largest manufacturer of two wheelers. Its Splendor model has sold more than 8.5 million to date.[30] Other major producers are Bajaj and TVS Motors.[31]
Technical aspects
Construction
Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". Motorcycle construction is the engineering, manufacturing, and assembly of components and systems for a motorcycle which results in the performance, cost, and aesthetics desired by the designer. With some exceptions, construction of modern mass-produced motorcycles has standardised on a steel or aluminium frame, telescopic forks holding the front wheel, and disc brakes. Some other body parts, designed for either aesthetic or performance reasons may be added. A petrol-powered engine typically consisting of between one and four cylinders (and less commonly, up to eight cylinders) coupled to a manual five- or six-speed sequential transmission drives the swingarm-mounted rear wheel by a chain, driveshaft, or belt. The repair can be done using a motorcycle lift.
Fuel economy
Motorcycle fuel economy varies greatly with engine displacement and riding style. A streamlined, fully faired Matzu Matsuzawa Honda XL125 achieved Template:Convert in the Craig Vetter Fuel Economy Challenge "on real highwaysTemplate:Spaced ndash in real conditions".[32] Due to low engine displacements (Template:Cvt), and high power-to-mass ratios, motorcycles offer good fuel economy. Under conditions of fuel scarcity like 1950s Britain and modern developing nations, motorcycles claim large shares of the vehicle market. In the United States, the average motorcycle fuel economy is 44 miles per US gallon (19 km per liter).[33]
Electric motorcycles
Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". Very high fuel economy equivalents are often derived by electric motorcycles. Electric motorcycles are nearly silent, zero-emission electric motor-driven vehicles. Operating range and top speed are limited by battery technology.[34] Fuel cells and petroleum-electric hybrids are also under development to extend the range and improve performance of the electric drive system.
Reliability
A 2013 survey of 4,424 readers of the US Consumer Reports magazine collected reliability data on 4,680 motorcycles purchased new from 2009 to 2012.[35] The most common problem areas were accessories, brakes, electrical (including starters, charging, ignition), and fuel systems, and the types of motorcycles with the greatest problems were touring, off-road/dual sport, sport-touring, and cruisers.[35] There were not enough sport bikes in the survey for a statistically significant conclusion, though the data hinted at reliability as good as cruisers.[35] These results may be partially explained by accessories including such equipment as fairings, luggage, and auxiliary lighting, which are frequently added to touring, adventure touring/dual sport and sport touring bikes.[36] Trouble with fuel systems is often the result of improper winter storage, and brake problems may also be due to poor maintenance.[35] Of the five brands with enough data to draw conclusions, Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha were statistically tied, with 11 to 14% of those bikes in the survey experiencing major repairs.[35] Harley-Davidsons had a rate of 24%, while BMWs did worse, with 30% of those needing major repairs.[35] There were not enough Triumph and Suzuki motorcycles surveyed for a statistically sound conclusion, though it appeared Suzukis were as reliable as the other three Japanese brands while Triumphs were comparable to Harley-Davidson and BMW.[35] Three-fourths of the repairs in the survey cost less than US$200 and two-thirds of the motorcycles were repaired in less than two days.[35] In spite of their relatively worse reliability in this survey, Harley-Davidson and BMW owners showed the greatest owner satisfaction, and three-fourths of them said they would buy the same bike again, followed by 72% of Honda owners and 60 to 63% of Kawasaki and Yamaha owners.[35]
Dynamics
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Two-wheeled motorcycles stay upright while rolling due to a physical property known as conservation of angular momentum in the wheels. Angular momentum points along the axle, and it "wants" to stay pointing in that direction.
Different types of motorcycles have different dynamics and these play a role in how a motorcycle performs in given conditions. For example, one with a longer wheelbase provides the feeling of more stability by responding less to disturbances.Template:Sfn Motorcycle tyres have a large influence over handling.
Motorcycles must be leaned in order to make turns. This lean is induced by the method known as countersteering, in which the rider momentarily steers the handlebars in the direction opposite of the desired turn. This practice is counterintuitive and therefore often confusing to novicesTemplate:Spaced ndash and even many experienced motorcyclists.[37][38][39]
With such short wheelbase, motorcycles can generate enough torque at the rear wheel, and enough stopping force at the front wheel, to lift the opposite wheel off the road. These actions, if performed on purpose, are known as wheelies and stoppies (or endos) respectively.
Accessories
Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". Various features and accessories may be attached to a motorcycle either as OEM (factory-fitted) or aftermarket. Such accessories are selected by the owner to enhance the motorcycle's appearance, safety, performance, or comfort, and may include anything from mobile electronics to sidecars and trailers.
Records
- The world record for the longest motorcycle jump was set in 2008 by Robbie Maddison with Template:Convert.[40]
- Since late 2010, the Ack Attack team has held the motorcycle land-speed record at Template:Convert.[41]
Safety
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Motorcycles have a higher rate of fatal accidents than automobiles or trucks and buses. United States Department of Transportation data for 2005 from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System show that for passenger cars, 18.62 fatal crashes occur per 100,000 registered vehicles. For motorcycles this figure is 75.19 per 100,000 registered vehiclesTemplate:Spaced ndash four times higher than for cars.[42] The same data shows that 1.56 fatalities occur per 100 million vehicle miles travelled for passenger cars, whereas for motorcycles the figure is 43.47 which is 28 times higher than for cars (37 times more deaths per mile travelled in 2007).[7] Motorcycle accident rates have increased significantly since the end of the 1990s, while the rates have dropped for passenger cars.
The most common scenario for motorcycle accidents in the United States is a motorist pulling out or turning in front of a motorcyclist, violating their right-of-way.[43] This is sometimes called a Template:Linktext, an acronym for the motorists' common response of "Sorry mate, I didn't see you".[44] Motorcyclists can anticipate and avoid some of these crashes with proper training, increasing their visibility to other traffic, keeping to the speed limits, and not consuming alcohol or other drugs before riding.[45]
The United Kingdom has several organisations dedicated to improving motorcycle safety by providing advanced rider training beyond what is necessary to pass the basic motorcycle licence test. These include the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Along with increased personal safety, riders with these advanced qualifications may benefit from reduced insurance costs.[46]
In South Africa, the Think Bike campaign is dedicated to increasing both motorcycle safety and the awareness of motorcycles on the country's roads. The campaign, while strongest in the Gauteng province, has representation in Western Cape, KwaZulu Natal and the Free State. It has dozens of trained marshals available for various events such as cycle races and is deeply involved in numerous other projects such as the annual Motorcycle Toy Run.[47]
Motorcycle safety education is offered throughout the United States by organisations including state agencies, non-profit organisations, and corporations. Most states use the courses designed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), while Oregon and Idaho developed their own. All of the training programs include a Basic Rider Course, an Intermediate Rider Course and an Advanced Rider Course.
In Ireland, since 2010,[48] in the UK and some Australian jurisdictions, such as Victoria, New South Wales,[49] the Australian Capital Territory,[50] Tasmania[51] and the Northern Territory,[52] it is compulsory to complete a basic rider training course before being issued a Learners Licence, after which they can ride on public roads.
In Canada, motorcycle rider training is compulsory in Quebec and Manitoba only, but all provinces and territories have graduated licence programs which place restrictions on new drivers until they have gained experience. Eligibility for a full motorcycle licence or endorsement for completing a Motorcycle Safety course varies by province. Without the Motorcycle Safety Course the chance of getting insurance for the motorcycle is very low. The Canada Safety Council, a non-profit safety organisation, offers the Gearing Up program across Canada and is endorsed by the Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council.[53] Training course graduates may qualify for reduced insurance premiums.
Motorcyclists and motor scooter riders are also exposed to an increased risk of suffering hearing damage such as hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing ears).[54][55] The noise is caused by wind noise while riding, rolling noise from the tyres and the engine itself.[56] The helmet only provides insufficient protection against high sound pressure levels.[57] Medicine (as of 2024) is not able to cure hearing damage. Wearing hearing protection, such as special earplugs for motorcyclists, can help prevent hearing damage.
Motorcycle rider postures
The motorcyclist's riding position depends on rider body-geometry (anthropometry) combined with the geometry of the motorcycle itself. These factors create a set of three basic postures.[58]
- SportTemplate:Spaced ndash the rider leans forward into the wind and the weight of the upper torso is supported by the rider's core at low speed and air pressure at high speed.Template:Sfn The footpegs are below the rider or to the rear. The reduced frontal area cuts wind resistance and allows higher speeds. At low-speed in this position the rider's arms may bear some of the weight of the rider's torso, which can be problematic.
- StandardTemplate:Spaced ndash the rider sits upright or leans forward slightly. The feet are below the rider. These are motorcycles that are not specialised to one task, so they do not excel in any particular area.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn The standard posture is used with touring and commuting as well as dirt and dual-sport bikes, and may offer advantages for beginners.Template:Sfn
- CruiserTemplate:Spaced ndash the rider sits at a lower seat height with the upper torso upright or leaning slightly rearward. Legs are extended forwards, sometimes out of reach of the regular controls on cruiser pegs. The low seat height can be a consideration for new or short riders. Handlebars tend to be high and wide. The emphasis is on comfort while compromising cornering ability because of low ground clearance and the greater likelihood of scraping foot pegs, floor boards, or other parts if turns are taken at the speeds other motorcycles can more readily accomplish.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn
Factors of a motorcycle's ergonomic geometry that determine the seating posture include the height, angle and location of footpegs, seat and handlebars. Factors in a rider's physical geometry that contribute to seating posture include torso, arm, thigh and leg length, and overall rider height.
Customized styles and subcultures
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While motorcycles are manufactured in standard styles (sport, cruiser, enduro, etc...), certain styles of motorcycle sub-genres have been both independently created, or manufactured in accordance with a pre-existing cultural style. Styles of note include: Café racers, Choppers, and Streetfighters.[59]
Cultural influence has directly led to the manufacturing of certain styles of motorcycles such as the Café racer. The stylistic choices and aerodynamic benefits of these custom bikes garnered a tremendous popularity which lead manufacturers to adopt the visual cues, and attempt to mimic the custom builds of these motorcycles. Notably, Harley-Davidson also leaned into a popular custom motorcycle culture (the Chopper), producing the Harley "soft-tail". This design attempted to appear as a hard tail chopper style build, while maintaining rear suspension yet having an aggressive riding angle similar to that of the custom builds.[60]
Legal definitions and restrictions
Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". A motorcycle is broadly defined by law in most countries for the purposes of registration, taxation and rider licensing as a powered two-wheel motor vehicle. Most countries distinguish between mopeds of 49 cc and the more powerful, larger vehicles, including scooter type motorcycles.[61] Many jurisdictions include some forms of three-wheeled cars as motorcycles.
In Nigeria, motorcycles, popularly referred to as Okada have been subject of many controversies with regards to safety and security followed by restriction of movement in many states. In 2020, it was banned in Lagos, Nigeria's most populous city.[62][63]
In Iran, women are not allowed to ride motorcycles.[64]
Environmental impact
Motorcycles and scooters' low fuel consumption has attracted interest in the United States from environmentalists and those affected by increased fuel prices.[65][66] Piaggio Group Americas supported this interest with the launch of a "Vespanomics" website and platform, claiming lower per-mile carbon emissions of 0.4 lb/mile (113 g/km) less than the average car, a 65% reduction, and better fuel economy.[67]
However, a motorcycle's exhaust emissions may contain 10–20 times more oxides of nitrogen (NOx), carbon monoxide, and unburned hydrocarbons than exhaust from a similar-year passenger car or SUV.[65][68] This is because many motorcycles lack a catalytic converter, and the emission standard is much more permissive for motorcycles than for other vehicles.[65] While catalytic converters have been installed in most gasoline-powered cars and trucks since 1975 in the United States, they can present fitment and heat difficulties in motorcycle applications.[65] Template:Better source needed
United States Environmental Protection Agency 2007 certification result reports for all vehicles versus on highway motorcycles (which also includes scooters),[69] the average certified emissions level for 12,327 vehicles tested was 0.734. The average "Nox+Co End-Of-Useful-Life-Emissions" for 3,863 motorcycles tested was 0.8531. 54% of the tested 2007-model motorcycles were equipped with a catalytic converter.
United States emissions limits
The following table shows maximum acceptable legal emissions of the combination of hydrocarbons, oxides of nitrogen, and carbon monoxide for new motorcycles sold in the United States with 280 cc or greater piston displacement.[70]
| Tier | Model year | HC+NOx (g/km) | CO (g/km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 2006–2009 | 1.4 | 12.0 |
| Tier 2 | 2010 and later | 0.8 | 12.0 |
The maximum acceptable legal emissions of hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide for new Class I and II motorcycles (50 cc–169 cc and 170 cc–279 cc respectively) sold in the United States are as follows:[70]
| Model year | HC (g/km) | CO (g/km) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 and later | 1.0 | 12.0 |
Europe
European emission standards for motorcycles are similar to those for cars.[71] New motorcycles must meet Euro 5 standards,[72] while cars must meet Euro 6D-temp standards. Motorcycle emission controls are being updated and it has been proposed to update to Euro 5+ in 2024.[73]
Asia
In Asia, motorcycles are a common mode of transportation and are putting significant pressure on the region's environment.[74][75] With a massive number of motorcycles, they contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and urban air pollution.[75][76] In India, road transport accounts for about 12% of the country's energy-related CO2 emissions.[77] In Vietnam, motorcycles contribute up to 87% of the CO emissions and 94% of hydrocarbons (HC) released by vehicles in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.[78][79][80] Environmental studies show that motorcycles in Vietnam contribute approximately 29% of NOx, 90% of CO, 65% of NMVOC, and nearly 38% of PM dust in total traffic emissions.[81][82][83] In Thailand, gasoline-powered motorcycles are reported to emit significantly higher pollution per kilometer compared to gasoline-powered cars, exacerbating urban smog.[84][85] In Singapore, the NEA reported that while motorcycles account for only 15 percent of vehicles, they contribute to over 53 percent of carbon monoxide emissions from vehicles.[86][87]
See also
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- Bicycle and motorcycle geometry
- List of motorcycle manufacturers
- List of motor scooter manufacturers and brands
- Motorcycle industry in China
- Scooter (motorcycle)
- Streamlined motorcycle
References
General references
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External links
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