Motorcycle

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For other uses, see Motorcycle (disambiguation). Not to be confused with Motocycle.

A classic Norton motorcycle
1952 Lambretta 125 D scooter

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 design varies 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 comparably popular to cars as a method of transport. In 2021, approximately 58.6 million new motorcycles were sold around the world,[6] fewer than the 66.7 million cars sold over the same period.[7]

In 2022, the top four motorcycle producers by volume and type were Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki.[8] In developing countries, motorcycles are considered utilitarian due to lower prices and greater fuel economy. Of all the motorcycles in the world, 58% are in the Asia-Pacific and Southern and Eastern Asia regions, excluding car-centric Japan.[citation needed]

According to the US Department of Transportation, the number of fatalities per vehicle mile traveled was 37 times higher for motorcycles than for cars.[9]

Types[edit]

Main article: Types of motorcycles

The term motorcycle has different legal definitions depending on jurisdiction (see § Legal definitions and restrictions).

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[edit]

Main article: History of the motorcycle

Experimentation and invention[edit]

Replica of the Daimler-Maybach Reitwagen

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.[10] 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.[11]

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.[12][13]

Butler's Patent Velocycle

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.[14] 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.[15]

The Butler Petrol Cycle was a three-wheeled vehicle, with the rear wheel directly driven by a 5⁄8 hp (0.47 kW), 40 cc (2.4 cu in) displacement, 2+1⁄4 in × 5 in (57 mm × 127 mm) 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.[16]

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.[17][18][19] Given the rapid rise in use of electric motorcycles worldwide,[20] 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.[18][21][22]

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,[12][13] constructed around the same time as the American Roper steam velocipede, built by Sylvester H. Roper of Roxbury, Massachusetts,[12][13] who had been demonstrating his machine at fairs and circuses in the eastern U.S. since 1867.[10] Roper built about 10 steam cars and cycles from the 1860s until his death in 1896.[19]

Summary of early inventions[edit]

Year Vehicle Number of wheels Inventor Engine type Notes
1867–1868 Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede 2 Pierre Michaux
Louis-Guillaume Perreaux		 Steam
  • One made
1867–1868 Roper steam velocipede 2 Sylvester Roper Steam
  • One made
1885 Daimler Reitwagen 2 (plus 2 outriggers) Gottlieb Daimler
Wilhelm Maybach		 Petroleum internal-combustion
  • One made
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
  • Modern configuration
  • First mass-produced motorcycle
  • First machine to be called "motorcycle"

First motorcycle companies[edit]

Diagram of 1894 Hildebrand & Wolfmüller

In 1894, Hildebrand & Wolfmüller became the first series production motorcycle, and the first to be called a motorcycle (German: Motorrad).[12][13][19][23] 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.

1902 Orient motocycle

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.[24] 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,[25][26] producing over 20,000 bikes per year.[27]

First World War[edit]

Triumph Motorcycles Model H, mass-produced for the war effort and notable for its reliability

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 499 cc (30.5 cu in) air-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It was also the first Triumph without pedals.[28][better source needed]

The Model H in particular, is regarded by many as having been the first "modern motorcycle".[29] 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".[30]

Postwar[edit]

Motorcycle rider on his Rudge-Whitworth motorbike, Australia, c. 1935

By 1920, Harley-Davidson was the largest manufacturer,[31] with their motorcycles being sold by dealers in 67 countries.[32][33]

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 a Woodmann-designed ohv Blackburne engine it became the first 350 cc to exceed 100 mph (160 km/h), recording 100.81 mph (162.24 km/h) 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 102.9 mph (165.6 km/h) 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]

By the late 1920s or early 1930s, DKW in Germany took over as the largest manufacturer.[34][35][36]

NSU Sportmax streamlined motorcycle, 250 cc class winner of the 1955 Grand Prix season

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.[37] 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.[38]

Moto Guzzi produced competitive race machines, and until the end of 1957 had a succession of victories.[39] 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.[40]

Today[edit]

Royal Enfield Bullet

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.[citation needed] 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.[41] 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.[42] Other major producers are Bajaj and TVS Motors.[43]

Yamaha Troops motorbike

Technical aspects[edit]

A Suzuki GS500 with a clearly visible frame, painted silver

Construction[edit]

See also: Motorcycle components and Motorcycle design

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[edit]

Motorcycle fuel economy varies greatly with engine displacement and riding style.[44] A streamlined, fully faired Matzu Matsuzawa Honda XL125 achieved 470 mpg‑US (0.50 L/100 km; 560 mpg‑imp) in the Craig Vetter Fuel Economy Challenge "on real highways – in real conditions".[45] Due to low engine displacements (100–200 cc (6.1–12.2 cu in)), 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).[46]

Electric motorcycles[edit]

Main article: Electric motorcycles and scooters

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.[47] Fuel cells and petroleum-electric hybrids are also under development to extend the range and improve performance of the electric drive system.

Reliability[edit]

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.[48] 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.[48] There were not enough sport bikes in the survey for a statistically significant conclusion, though the data hinted at reliability as good as cruisers.[48] 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.[49] Trouble with fuel systems is often the result of improper winter storage, and brake problems may also be due to poor maintenance.[48] 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.[48] Harley-Davidsons had a rate of 24%, while BMWs did worse, with 30% of those needing major repairs.[48] 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.[48] 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.[48] 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.[48]

Dynamics[edit]

Racing motorcycles leaning in a turn
Main article: Bicycle and motorcycle dynamics

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.[50] 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 novices – and even many experienced motorcyclists.[51][52][53]

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[edit]

Main article: Motorcycle accessories

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[edit]

Safety[edit]

Motorcycle equipment
Main articles: Motorcycle safety and Motorcycle safety clothing
Wearing a motorcycle helmet 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 higher at 75.19 per 100,000 registered vehicles – four times higher than for cars.[56] 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).[9] Furthermore, for motorcycles the accident rates have increased significantly since the end of the 1990s, while the rates have dropped for passenger cars.

The most common configuration of motorcycle accidents in the United States is when a motorist pulls out or turns in front of a motorcyclist, violating their right-of-way.[57] This is sometimes called a SMIDSY, an acronym formed from the motorists' common response of "Sorry mate, I didn't see you".[58] 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.[59]

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[60]

Young woman riding a motorcycle in Laos, with four young children passengers

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.[61]

Motorcycle safety education is offered throughout the United States by organisations ranging from state agencies to non-profit organisations to 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.

An MSF rider course for novices

In Ireland, since 2010,[62] in the UK and some Australian jurisdictions, such as Victoria, New South Wales,[63] the Australian Capital Territory,[64] Tasmania[65] and the Northern Territory,[66] 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.[67] Training course graduates may qualify for reduced insurance premiums.

Motorcycle rider postures[edit]

BMW C1, with a more upright seating position
Bombardier Can-Am Spyder, showing location of rider on the trike

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.[68]

  • Sport – 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.[69] 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.
  • Standard – 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.[70][71] The standard posture is used with touring and commuting as well as dirt and dual-sport bikes, and may offer advantages for beginners.[72]
  • Cruiser – 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.[73][74]

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.

Legal definitions and restrictions[edit]

Main article: Legal definition of motorcycle

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 (scooters do not count as a separate category). 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.[75][76]

Environmental impact[edit]

Motorcycles and scooters' low fuel consumption has attracted interest in the United States from environmentalists and those affected by increased fuel prices.[77][78] 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.[79]

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.[77][80] This is because many motorcycles lack a catalytic converter, and the emission standard is much more permissive for motorcycles than for other vehicles.[77] 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.[77][better source needed]

United States Environmental Protection Agency 2007 certification result reports for all vehicles versus on highway motorcycles (which also includes scooters),[81] 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[edit]

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.[82]

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:[82]

Model year HC (g/km) CO (g/km)
2006 and later 1.0 12.0

Europe[edit]

European emission standards for motorcycles are similar to those for cars.[83] New motorcycles must meet Euro 5 standards,[84] 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.[85]

Vietnam[edit]

According to the National Environmental Status Report 2016 and recent air quality reports, emissions from motor vehicles have been identified as the main cause of environmental pollution.[86][87] Among them, with over 68 million vehicles in operation nationwide (statistics from the Ministry of Transport, 2021), motorcycles are the largest source of pollutant emissions.[88][89][90]

In Hanoi, there are over 6 million motorcycles, of which nearly 3 million were manufactured before 2000.[91][92][93] In Ho Chi Minh City, there are about 7.8 million motorcycles, of which 67.89% are over 10 years old.[94][95] Air quality index (AQI) in urban centers often spikes during peak traffic times, such as rush hour in the morning and evening.[88][96][97]

A study by the Institute of Environment and Resources, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, found that motorcycles account for about 29% of NO emissions, 90% of CO emissions, 65.4% of NMVOC emissions, 37.7% of particulate matter emissions, and 31% of fine particulate matter emissions.[88][98][99]

Traffic emissions account for 50% of total emissions in Ho Chi Minh City.[100] While the world is moving towards Euro 6 emission standards, most cars in Vietnam meet Euro 4 or Euro 5 standards. However, motorcycles still meet Euro 2 or Euro 3 standards, which were implemented over 25 years ago.[88]

See also[edit]

Citations[edit]

  1. ^ * "Definition of Motorcycle by Merriam-Webster". merriam-webster. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  2. ^ "Motorcycle". Encyclopedia Britannica. Archived from the original on 20 January 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2020.
  3. ^ "Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR 571.3 — Definitions". govinfo. 1 October 2010. p. 239. Archived from the original on 27 November 2020. Retrieved 29 August 2020. 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.
  4. ^ "Motorcycle Timeline - Evolution of Motorcycles". www.bicyclehistory.net. Archived from the original on 25 February 2020. Retrieved 25 February 2020.
  5. ^ "Hildebrand & Wolfmuller Motorcycle, circa 1894 - The Henry Ford". www.thehenryford.org. Archived from the original on 25 February 2020. Retrieved 25 February 2020.
  6. ^ Team, M. C. D. (10 March 2022). "Global Motorcycles Market - Data & Fact 2022 | MotorCyclesData". Motorcycles Data. Archived from the original on 29 May 2022. Retrieved 4 May 2022.
  7. ^ "Global car sales 2010-2021". Statista. Archived from the original on 29 April 2022. Retrieved 4 May 2022.
  8. ^ "List of Motorcycle specifications database in the world". motorcyclespecs.us. January 2023. Archived from the original on 18 January 2023. Retrieved 17 January 2023.
  9. ^ a b "Traffic safety facts, 2008. Report no. DOT HS-811-159" (PDF). NHTSA's National Center for Statistics and Analysis. 2008. Archived (PDF) from the original on 4 July 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2010.
  10. ^ a b "The Past – 1800s: First motorcycle". The History and Future of Motorcycles and motorcycling – From 1885 to the Future, Total Motorcycle Website. Archived from the original on 8 June 2017. Retrieved 28 June 2007.
  11. ^ Lienhard 2005, pp. 120–121.
  12. ^ a b c d Setright 1979.
  13. ^ a b c d Falco 1998.
  14. ^ "motorcycle (vehicle)". Encyclopædia Britannica. Archived from the original on 1 September 2014. Retrieved 23 June 2022.
  15. ^ Georgano 2002, p. 22.
  16. ^ Georgano 2002, pp. 20–22.
  17. ^ "motorcycle, n.". Oxford English Dictionary Online. Oxford University Press. March 2009. 1. A two-wheeled motor-driven road vehicle, resembling a bicycle but powered by an internal-combustion engine; (now) spec. one with an engine capacity, top speed, or weight greater than that of a moped.
  18. ^ a b Long, Tony (30 August 2007). "Aug. 30, 1885: Daimler Gives World First 'True' Motorcycle". Wired. ISSN 1059-1028. Archived from the original on 22 December 2016. Retrieved 10 March 2017.
  19. ^ a b c Kresnak 2008.
  20. ^ "Electric Bikes Drive Global Sales". 24 December 2014. Archived from the original on 20 March 2015. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  21. ^ Barnum, Merritt H. (August 1963). "New Image in Motorcycling". American Motorcyclist. 17: 5. ISSN 0277-9358.
  22. ^ Wineland, Lynn (1964). The Complete Book of Motorcycling. Petersen Publishing Company. p. 7. ASIN B0007E0SN8.
  23. ^ "Brief History of the Marque: Hildebrand & Wolfmuller". Hildebrand & Wolfmuller Motorad, European Motorcycle Universe. Archived from the original on 10 December 2013. Retrieved 28 June 2007.
  24. ^ "History of Motorbikes". Bikes4Sale. Archived from the original on 25 February 2020. Retrieved 25 February 2020.
  25. ^ Walker 2006, p. 66.
  26. ^ George Hendee. The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. Archived from the original on 13 March 2021. Retrieved 8 August 2009.
  27. ^ Youngblood, Ed (June 2001). "The Rise and Fall". American Motorcyclist. Vol. 55, no. 6. American Motorcyclist Assoc.
  28. ^ "Triumph history". Archived from the original on 8 September 2008. Retrieved 20 May 2009.
  29. ^ "Triumph Motorcycle History". Archived from the original on 21 March 2015. Retrieved 18 November 2013.
  30. ^ Chadwick, Ian. "Triumph Motorcycles timeline". Archived from the original on 2 April 2018. Retrieved 18 November 2013.
  31. ^ "History of Harley-Davidson Motor Company". pcmotors.com. Archived from the original on 25 February 2020. Retrieved 25 February 2020.
  32. ^ Prashad, Sharda (16 April 2006). "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". Toronto Star. Toronto, Ont. p. A.16. Archived from the original on 30 June 2017. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  33. ^ Cato, Jeremy (8 August 2003). "Harley-Davidson at 100". Vancouver Sun. Vancouver, B.C. p. E.1.Fro.
  34. ^ Vance, Bill (24 April 2009). "Motoring Memories: DKW/Auto Union, 1928–1966". Canadian Driver. Archived from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 17 May 2014.
  35. ^ de Cet 2002, p. 128.
  36. ^ Walker 1999, p. 61.
  37. ^ Willoughby 1982.
  38. ^ "Rupert Hollaus". Motorsport Memorial. Archived from the original on 19 January 2019. Retrieved 3 April 2008.
  39. ^ "Moto Guzzi History". Moto Guzzi. Archived from the original on 24 February 2019. Retrieved 23 February 2019.
  40. ^ Youngblood, Ed. "Motocross goes International, 1947 through 1965". The History of Motocross, Part Two, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum. Archived from the original on 13 November 2007. Retrieved 29 June 2007.
  41. ^ Squatriglia, Chuck (23 May 2008). "Honda Sells Its 60 Millionth – Yes, Millionth – Super Cub". Autopia. Wired. Archived from the original on 27 April 2014. Retrieved 28 January 2010.
  42. ^ "Hero Honda splendor sells more than 8.5 million units". indiacar.net. Archived from the original on 21 February 2008. Retrieved 10 August 2008.
  43. ^ O'Malley Greenburg, Zack (13 August 2007). "World's Cheapest Car". Forbes. Archived from the original on 6 September 2009. Retrieved 28 January 2010.
  44. ^ "Motorcycle Fuel Consumption & Real World Performance Guide". MFC Website. Archived from the original on 18 July 2008. Retrieved 13 June 2008.
  45. ^ Vetter, Craig. "Doing More with Less Energy". The Craig Vetter Fuel Economy Contests – 1980 through 1985. Archived from the original on 22 August 2006. Retrieved 15 August 2006.
  46. ^ "Alternative Fuels Data Center: Maps and Data - Average Fuel Economy by Major Vehicle Category". Archived from the original on 4 March 2021. Retrieved 2 March 2021.
  47. ^ "Electric Motorcycles". Solo Moto. Archived from the original on 11 May 2017. Retrieved 15 May 2016.
  48. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Most reliable motorcycles; Japanese bikes have fewer problems than BMW and Harley models", Consumer Reports, May 2013, archived from the original on 21 February 2015, retrieved 26 March 2013
  49. ^ Bartlett, Jeff (26 March 2013), "Motorcycle reliability survey shows what goes wrong", Consumer Reports, archived from the original on 3 August 2013, retrieved 26 March 2013
  50. ^ Gaetano 2004, pp. 34–25 "[W]ith the same disturbance, the rider with a longer wheelbase will feel less oscillating movement on the handlebars, and therefore, will have a perception of greater stability on the motorcycle."
  51. ^ Joel Fajans (July 2000). "Steering in bicycles and motorcycles" (PDF). American Journal of Physics. 68 (7): 654–59. Bibcode:2000AmJPh..68..654F. doi:10.1119/1.19504. Archived (PDF) from the original on 1 September 2006. Retrieved 4 August 2006.
  52. ^ Hurt, H.H.; Ouellet, J.V.; Thom, D.R. (January 1981). "Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures, Volume 1: Technical Report" (PDF). U.S. Department of Transportation, NHTSA. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 August 2014.
  53. ^ Crouch, Tom D. (1989). The Bishop's Boys. New York: W. W. Norton. p. 170. ISBN 0-393-30695-X.
  54. ^ Channell, Mike (5 August 2019). "Is Robbie Maddison the world's sanest stuntman?". Red Bull. Archived from the original on 25 November 2020. Retrieved 29 August 2020.
  55. ^ "Fastest motorcycle speed achieved". guinnessworldrecords.com/. Guinness World Records. Archived from the original on 4 October 2021. Retrieved 3 October 2021.
  56. ^ "MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT CAUSE FACTORS AND IDENTIFICATION OF COUNTERMEASURES VOLUME I: TECHNICAL REPORT, Traffic Safety Center - University of Southern California" (PDF). 1981. p. 416. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 August 2014.
  57. ^ "The 'sorry mate I didn't see you' campaign". South Gloucestershire Council. Archived from the original on 17 October 2008. Retrieved 21 May 2008.
  58. ^ Quick Tips: General guidelines for riding a motorcycle safely (PDF), Motorcycle Safety Foundation, October 2006, archived (PDF) from the original on 30 July 2012, retrieved 13 June 2012
  59. ^ "Motorcycling : THINK! : Roadsafety". think.direct.gov.uk. Archived from the original on 22 May 2016. Retrieved 1 June 2016.
  60. ^ "About Think Bike". Think Bike. Archived from the original on 8 February 2013. Retrieved 21 March 2010.
  61. ^ "GDL rollout". Road Safety Association of Ireland. Archived from the original on 29 July 2015. Retrieved 15 August 2015.
  62. ^ "Learner riders licence". Motorcycle Rider Training Scheme, Roads and Traffic Authority, NSW. Archived from the original on 2 March 2011. Retrieved 16 May 2007.
  63. ^ "Learner Licence". Road Transport Information Management, www.rego.act.gov.au. Archived from the original on 17 May 2007. Retrieved 16 May 2007.
  64. ^ "TAS Learner Licence". Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources. Archived from the original on 11 June 2009. Retrieved 13 June 2009.
  65. ^ "Motorcyclist Education Training And Licensing (METAL)". Northern Territory Department of Planning and Infrastructure, www.ipe.nt.gov.au. Archived from the original on 7 May 2007. Retrieved 16 May 2007.
  66. ^ "MMIC Information". Motorcycle and Moped Industry Council. Archived from the original on 22 April 2007. Retrieved 16 May 2007.
  67. ^ "A Three Dimensional Analysis of Riding Posture in Three Different Styles of Motorcycle" (PDF). Motorcycle Safety Foundation. March 2006. Archived from the original (PDF) on 27 March 2012. Retrieved 31 January 2008.
  68. ^ Davis & Anthony 2011, p. 25 "The [sportbike] rider posture is usually canted severely forwrd with his hands pressing onto the handlebar grips, which are designed to keep him over the gasoline tank, a position not intended to maximize comfort. This posture is aerodynamically efficient at high speeds, when wind assists the rider by supporting his body, but at lower speeds quickly results in rider fatigue and stressed wrists."
  69. ^ Maher & Greisler 1998.
  70. ^ Duglin Kennedy 2005, p. 75.
  71. ^ Stermer 2006, p. 16.
  72. ^ Stermer 2006, p. 10.
  73. ^ Duglin Kennedy 2005, p. 71.
  74. ^ "Lagos motorbike taxi ban: Chaos as Nigerian city removes okadas". BBC News. 3 February 2020. Archived from the original on 25 February 2021. Retrieved 17 February 2021.
  75. ^ "Ban on 'okada' in Lagos and the security challenge". Businessday NG. 23 February 2020. Archived from the original on 17 April 2021. Retrieved 17 February 2021.
  76. ^ a b c d Carpenter, Susan (11 June 2008). "Motorcycles and emissions: The surprising facts". LA Times. Archived from the original on 18 May 2014. Retrieved 8 August 2008.
  77. ^ Dahl, Judy (September 2007). "Baby, You Can Drive My Vespa". Madison Magazine. Archived from the original on 11 October 2007. Retrieved 8 August 2008.
  78. ^ "Vespanomics – Vespa Economics" (PDF). Piaggio Group USA. Archived from the original (PDF) on 13 January 2010. Retrieved 8 February 2010.
  79. ^ Fisk, Umbra (28 May 2003). "On motorcycles – Ask Umbra". Grist. Archived from the original on 29 June 2011. Retrieved 28 January 2010.
  80. ^ "Certified Highway Motorcycle Test Result Report Data (2007)". US EPA. 8 January 2008. Archived from the original on 15 July 2008. Retrieved 3 September 2008.
  81. ^ a b "EPA Emissions Regulations for 1978 and Later New Motorcycles, General Provisions". United States Environmental Protection Agency. Archived from the original on 30 March 2014. Retrieved 7 December 2013.
  82. ^ Leonidas, Ntziachristos; Savas, Geivanidis; Zissis, Samaras; Anastasios, Xanthopoulos; Heinz, Steven; Bernd, Bugsel (September 2009). Study on possible new measures concerning motorcycle emissions (PDF) (Report). p. 16. Archived (PDF) from the original on 5 December 2020. Retrieved 27 July 2020.
  83. ^ Madson, Bart (15 February 2007). "Motorcycle Emissions Regs Examined". Motorcycle-USA.com. Archived from the original on 8 February 2010. Retrieved 28 January 2010.
  84. ^ "EURO 5 Cycle Emissions Proposed for 2015". Dealernews.com. 8 December 2008. Archived from the original on 17 February 2015. Retrieved 28 January 2010.
  85. ^ "Đã đến lúc thực hiện kiểm định khí thải xe máy". VOV2.VN (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  86. ^ baochinhphu.vn (11 July 2023). "Cần thiết đưa kiểm soát khí thải xe máy vào Luật Giao thông đường bộ". baochinhphu.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  87. ^ a b c d "Báo động ô nhiễm không khí từ những chiếc xe máy cũ". Báo Nhân Dân điện tử (in Vietnamese). 13 March 2023. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  88. ^ baochinhphu.vn (11 July 2023). "Cần thiết đưa kiểm soát khí thải xe máy vào Luật Giao thông đường bộ". baochinhphu.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  89. ^ Chính, Báo Sài Gòn Đầu Tư Tài (18 July 2023). "Đã đến lúc thực hiện kiểm định khí thải xe máy". Báo Sài Gòn Đầu Tư Tài Chính (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  90. ^ xaydungchinhsach.chinhphu.vn (12 July 2023). "Sẽ kiểm tra định kỳ khí thải xe máy?". xaydungchinhsach.chinhphu.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  91. ^ ONLINE, TUOI TRE (1 October 2023). "Bộ Công an: Đề xuất xe máy phải ra trạm kiểm định khí thải". TUOI TRE ONLINE (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  92. ^ "Xe máy sẽ phải kiểm định khí thải như ô tô?". VOV.VN (in Vietnamese). 12 July 2023. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  93. ^ thanhnien.vn (14 July 2023). "Đã đến lúc kiểm soát khí thải xe máy". thanhnien.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  94. ^ thanhnien.vn (27 January 2021). "Hàng triệu xe máy sẽ bị kiểm soát khí thải". thanhnien.vn (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  95. ^ Tuan, Dang (28 September 2023). "Sơn xe máy" (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  96. ^ Khoa, Vũ (24 November 2022). "Ô nhiễm không khí: 70% do phương tiện giao thông". Báo Kinh tế đô thị - Đọc tin tức thời sự kinh tế 24h mới nhất (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  97. ^ "Khói xe trong thành phố". suckhoedoisong.vn (in Vietnamese). 27 December 2019. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  98. ^ "Loại ngay những "Bát nhang di động"". laodong.vn (in Vietnamese). 23 December 2019. Retrieved 25 December 2023.
  99. ^ Chính, Báo Sài Gòn Đầu Tư Tài (18 July 2023). "Đã đến lúc thực hiện kiểm định khí thải xe máy". Báo Sài Gòn Đầu Tư Tài Chính (in Vietnamese). Retrieved 25 December 2023.

General references[edit]

External links[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Motorcycle.
Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Motorcycling.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Motorcycle&oldid=1192215089"