Motorcycle
A motorcycle is a two-wheeled motor vehicle, and in some jurisdictions a three-wheeled vehicle, typically steered with handlebars and ridden from a saddle-like seat.
A motorcycle is a two-wheeled motor vehicle, typically steered with handlebars and ridden from a saddle-style seat. In some jurisdictions, three-wheeled vehicles are also classified as motorcycles. Motorcycles are used globally for transportation, commuting, touring, sport, off-road riding, and recreation. In Canada, motorcycles are subject to provincial licensing, registration, and safety rules, with legal definitions varying by province and territory.
Definition and design
A motorcycle is a powered vehicle typically controlled by handlebars and ridden from a saddle-style seat. While most motorcycles have two wheels, some legal systems and references include certain three-wheeled models. Motorcycle designs vary widely, encompassing street, off-road, and dual-purpose types.
Uses and types
Motorcycles are built for different purposes, including commuting, long-distance travel, racing, cruising, and off-road use. Common categories include street, off-road, and dual-purpose motorcycles. They serve as a major form of transport and recreational vehicle in many parts of the world.
History
Motorcycles emerged in the late 19th century and developed into a diverse vehicle class with many manufacturers and models. Historical reference works document the evolution of the motorcycle from its early years, with coverage beginning around 1885. Motorcycling refers both to riding a motorcycle and to related social activities such as clubs and rallies.
Motorcycling culture
Motorcycling also refers to the culture around motorcycle riding, including clubs, rallies, and shared enthusiast activities. This culture has produced distinctive subgroups, traditions, and events. Motorcycling as a social activity has a long history and continues to be a significant part of motorcycle ownership.
Key facts
- Motorcycles are generally defined as two-wheeled motor vehicles, though some three-wheeled models are also classified as motorcycles.
- Motorcycle designs vary widely, including street, off-road, and dual-purpose types.
- Motorcycling refers both to riding a motorcycle and to related social activities such as clubs and rallies.
- Motorcycles have been produced since the late 19th century, with reference works tracing their history from 1885 onward.
- They are used globally as a major form of transport and recreational vehicle.
Motorcycles are a common road vehicle in Canada and are subject to provincial licensing, registration, and safety rules; the exact legal definition and requirements vary by province and territory.
Frequently asked questions
What is a motorcycle?
Are trikes motorcycles?
What are motorcycles used for?
When did motorcycles first appear?
What does motorcycling mean?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MotorcycleSupports: General definition, uses, types, and motorcycling culture.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/technology/motorcycleSupports: Definition of motorcycle as a two-wheeled motor vehicle and historical context.
- Internet Archive — https://archive.org/details/encyclopediaofmo00wils_1Supports: Book metadata for The Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle by Hugo Wilson; historical reference work on motorcycles.
- Internet Archive — https://archive.org/details/newillustrateden0000unse_v6z0Supports: Book metadata for The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of Motorcycles; historical reference work.
- Google Books — https://books.google.com/books/about/The_Motorcycle_Encyclopedia.html?id=sKhsQgAACAAJSupports: Reference work describing motorcycle history and models across the twentieth century.