Here's a mini guide into the world of motorcycles. As a bike-enthusiast, knowing about bikes and its’ works (types, models, functionalities) is a never-ending, life-long learning. Whether you are a novice or an experienced rider, this read will relate to you…
Dual-Purpose/Adventure-Tourer (aka DP/ADV)
A Dual-purpose motorcycle means that it fits for both on road and off-road use. An adventurer-tourer is also meant for this purpose, with the added benefit of long-distance cruising.
Most manufacturers produce two type of motorcycles from its base model, to cater to their customer’s riding preference. For example, the Triumph Tiger 800 XR is more suitable towards road riding, while the XC is for off-road riding . The same applies for the popular BMW 1200 GS vs. GS Adventure, the Ducati Multistrada 1200/S vs. the Multistrada 1200 Enduro, and the also the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S (on road) and Super Adventure R (off-road)
Other models such as Honda Africa Twin and Yamaha Super Tenere works well for off-road riding, even though they perform well on paved roads, too.
Because they can be ridden off-road, the ergonomics feature straight up sitting position, wide handlebars, narrower tires, tall ride height and a slim motorcycle body. ADV’S can carry large loads too.
As with sport-riders, the touring trend has led manufacturers to add revolutionary and innovative technologies to their DP/ADV motorcycles, such as electronically- controlled suspension, lean angle sensor, advanced traction control and ABS, engine power mapping.
Yamaha Super Tenere
Honda Africa Twin
Cruiser
These type of bikes are more laid back in its riding styles: low-slung, low seat height, long wheelbase, and usually lots of ‘show’ for ‘cruising’ down the road to admiring and envious glances.
There are some sub-genres within this category
“Sporty”
Shorter wheelbases and slightly more contemporary riding position such as the H-D Sportster, Indian Scout, Yamaha Bolt.
Yamaha Bolt“Stretched”
H-D Dyna and Softail range, Johnny Pag Malibu, and the now discontinued Victory Vegas 8 Ball, falls under this sub-genre. Features include long wheelbases and low seat heights.
“Heavyweight”
Fat tires, large-sized tank and body such as the H-D Heritage Softail and Indian Chief Classic.
Indian Chief Classic
Tourer/Bagger
This type is equipped with large windshields and bodywork, large overall size with large luggage such as the H-D Road King, Electra Glide, Street Glide and Road Glide, and Indian Chieftain
The Harley-Davidson has defined the benchmarks by using narrow-angled V-Twin engines, hence almost every cruiser, small and large, are equipped with such engines.
V-Twin is favored for its compact packaging and high torque output. Its cylinders add to the motorcycle’s visual cues, and also deep, earth-shaking rumble.
Indian Chieftain
Classic
More like modern classics; These classic motorcycles design never goes out of trend because it goes all the way back to the days when a motorcycle constituted of a seat, engine, two wheels and a gas tank. These bikes are full of ‘character’ rather than being just a ‘machine’.
This is why cruisers are regarded as classics as well.
Even though modern classics look old-school, they still utilize new age electrics and components. This is where Triumph comes along. Triumph is the undisputed leader in modern classics with their Bonneville range. The Ducati Scrambler is also performing well in this segment, although it qualifies as a standard too, as mentioned earlier.
Triumph Bonneville Bobber
Variety in choice, Difference in preference... ultimately, Your BIKE depicts YOU!
