The Basics of Motorcycles
Motorcycles are a type of motor vehicle, used for transportation. They are also popular for recreation and sport.
There are many different types of bikes, each one having its own unique qualities that make them appealing to people. Some of them are strictly utilitarian while others are designed for purely aesthetic reasons.
The basic parts of any motorcycle include an engine, a chassis, a transmission and wheels. Each of these parts has its own role in making your bike function properly.
A motorcycle’s engine is often a single-cylinder or dual-cylinder, although there are some four-cylinder machines as well. The engine is a vital component that determines how fast the bike can go. The engine is a central point for all other components to connect to, so it’s important to choose the right type of engine that will suit your riding needs.
Most motorcycles have a transmission with four to six speeds, usually controlled by twist-type controls on the handgrips. The clutch and throttle control the engine’s speed, and the front-wheel and rear-wheel brakes are controlled by levers on the handlebars.
The frame of a motorcycle is typically a steel structure, though aluminum and cast alloys are increasingly common. The tires are similar to automobile tires, except they’re smaller and rounded to allow leaning, which can improve stability in turns.
Riding a motorcycle is different from riding a bicycle, because you have more power and more weight on two wheels. However, the principle is still the same – you need momentum to stay balanced on the machine.
