Different types of motorcycles
Summary
Overview
There are six types of motorcycles:
- The street motorcycle is nimble and ideal for beginners.
- The sports motorcycle delivers the highest performance.
- The dual-purpose bike blends off-road riding with on-road usability.
- The touring bike is designed for long-distance travel.
- The cruiser is highly customizable.
- The motocross is built for extreme sports and off-road use.
How to choose the right type of bike?
To choose the type and the motorcycle brand that best match your needs, start by defining what you want. For example, if you are a fan of extreme performance, a sports motorcycle may be what you are after.
Conversely, an enthusiast might be more inclined to opt for a street bike, known for balanced, easy handling.
If you are unsure which type would be the best fit, you can always ask the experts at Motos Illimitées for assistance.
Street motorcycles
Designed for maximum agility, street motorcycles are generally quite light. They are reasonably powerful, without reaching the extreme levels of performance offered by sports bikes.
Ainsi, ce sont des motos qui trouvent un équilibre entre la moto sportive et la moto de tourisme, afin d’offrir une expérience urbaine accessible tant pour les nouveaux conducteurs que pour les plus expérimentés.
There is a wide range of standout street motorcycles, such as the Yamaha MT-07, which is perfect for beginners.
Sports motorcycles
Focused on raw performance, sports motorcycles are well suited for experienced riders who want thrilling experiences.
The forward-leaning riding position is not necessarily comfortable over long distances, which makes them a less suitable choice for riders who plan frequent long trips.
Sport motorcycles come in many styles, such as the striking Kawasaki Ninja and the Suzuki GSX-8TT.
Cruiser-style motorcycles
Also known as boulevard motorcycles, cruisers stand out with low seats and customizable styles. These motorcycles are usually powerful enough to make intercity rides straightforward and pleasant.
There are many custom models, including the Indian Chief and the Suzuki Boulevard, designed to offer a wide variety of options and styles.
Dual-purpose
A dual-purpose bike is built for off-road use while also being perfectly suitable for riding on pavement.
Very light and agile, it is designed to withstand frequent impacts encountered on rough terrain.
Interesting dual-purpose models include the Suzuki V-Strom and the Honda CRF300L.
Touring
A touring motorcycle emphasizes passenger comfort and cargo space. It makes long trips enjoyable, thanks to a strong engine and a size that enhances stability.
However, its significant weight also means it is not necessarily well suited for beginners.
There are several touring models, such as the Honda Gold Wing or the Triumph 1200.
Motocross
A motocross motorcycle is designed for use on open and rugged terrain. It is usually associated with the sport of the same name and is not truly adapted for riding on public roads.
It is therefore a recreational motorcycle for experienced riders who want to explore an extreme sport.
There are many models known to perform well, such as the Triumph TF-250-X or the Yamaha PW50, a mini-motorcycle designed for young riders who want to practise the sport.
Summary table of the different types of motorcycles
Here is a summary of the key characteristics of each type of motorcycle:
| Types of motorcycles | Key characteristics |
|---|---|
| Street motorcycles |
|
| Sport |
|
| Cruiser/custom (boulevard bikes) |
|
| Dual-purpose |
|
| Touring |
|
| Motocross |
|
Motos Illimitées: the obvious choice for your next motorcycle
No matter the type of bike that interests you, Motos Illimitées is the motorcycle destination in Terrebonne, on the North Shore, near Montreal.
Our unmatched inventory has what you are looking for.
What are the main differences between a sports bike and a cruiser?
A sports motorcycle is built for maximum and extreme performance, while a cruiser offers a relaxed and highly customizable riding experience.
What are the best bikes for street riding?
There are many excellent road bikes. Among the best are the Yamaha MT-07, the Honda CB650, the Triumph Street Triple, and many other models that our experts can recommend based on your needs.
Which type of motorcycle is best suited for a beginner?
In general, a road bike is the most suitable for a beginner. It offers moderate performance and handling that makes riding easy and pleasant.
What are the different types of bikes?
The different types are street, sports, cruiser, dual-purpose, touring, and motocross motorcycles.
What are the advantages of a touring motorcycle for long trips?
Touring motorcycles often provide much better cargo space than other types. They also tend to be heavier and more comfortable, which helps deliver a stable and relaxed ride.
