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It's good to ride a motorcycle just for fun, but often you have to move from point A to B - to work, on business, home. The best road bikes are those that can cope with everyday everyday riding. For frequent trips around the city, it is better to buy a road motorcycle that is narrow and nimble, that behaves well on the road, helps in unusual road situations, and is quite powerful and comfortable. Be sure to provide space for luggage and bags.

Note that the definition of “road motorcycle” is conditional; it differs from sports motorcycles mainly in that the latter are more powerful, have a solid base that allows you to ride off-road - sand, mud, clay. Road ones are not intended for motocross on difficult roads or rough terrain, but for fast, but not extreme driving on dense surfaces, highways, and highways. When thinking about which road bike to choose for yourself, pay attention to the type of motorcycle, its purpose, and brands of well-known manufacturers.

What types of motorcycles are there?

Two-wheeled vehicles are divided into the following types:

1. Classic – characterized by simplicity of form and ease of maintenance; they can be of any cubic capacity. Suitable for everyday riding thanks to the flat riding position.
2. Tourist - characterized by increased seat comfort, the presence of luggage compartments, as well as power and significant cubic capacity. They are used on asphalt roads, but for less than ideal roads, a subtype of touring bike - a tourer - is suitable.
3. Sports - when designing them, the main emphasis is on obtaining maximum power and controllability. A sports bike designed for racing tracks and routes of increased difficulty. Most of them are not used in the city due to the lack of lighting elements.
4. Cruisers - their feature is an elongated fork, which is why the driver’s seating position is quite specific - tilted back. Cruisers are good in the city, but due to their size, they are not suitable for beginners.
5. Enduro are the best models for off-road and bad roads. Depending on the design features, they are divided into different types and some are prohibited for use in the city, for example, cross-country ones. The cross bike is designed for cross-country motorcycle racing. But an enduro motard, equipped with wheels and brakes of sports models, is good for driving around the city and does not require high qualifications from the pilot.
6. Electric motorcycles are the body of a gasoline sports motorcycle combined with a Li-ion block battery.
7. scooters are maneuverable, easy to operate, small in size and inexpensive transport for city trips.

HONDA CB1

The ancestor of the classic “sibikha” with all that it implies. Significant differences include a sportier riding position, smaller dimensions and a stiffer frame. Unfortunately, the problem of age lies on the surface here, because this motorcycle was produced for only 3 years: from 1989 to 1992. Hence the acute problem with finding spare parts and the “half-dead” community. However, I don’t see the point in going into details and will simply confirm everything said above: the motorcycle is good, but finding one alive will not be easy at all.

Motorcycle selection criteria

1. Class;
2. cubic capacity;
3. Functional;
4. Color and design;
5. Manufacturer;
6. Price.

Class

A motorcycle is not only a means of transportation. It is a way of life, part of a worldview, a whole philosophy that is based on certain principles and views. However, with all the romanticism and love of freedom that usually characterizes the purchase of a two-wheeled “horse,” this issue should be approached from a practical perspective.

First of all, you should analyze your needs - daily route, trips out of town and long distances, road conditions, traffic jams, driving skills, etc.

Classic

A classic motorcycle is suitable for both beginners and experienced drivers. Its capabilities will be enough to get to work or school every day. “Classic” is maneuverable enough to maneuver in traffic and move between car rows. It is equipped with a lightweight frame and has no fairings, and is therefore lightweight. However, a classic motorcycle is not the best option for long trips on the highways.

Sport

Sports models are leaders in speed. They often have a bright and aggressive design that attracts attention. In addition, they are characterized by an extremely low seating position, in which the driver practically lies on the steering wheel, creating excellent aerodynamic properties. However, there are two main conditions - excellent road surface and equally excellent driving skills.

Motards

An excellent option for those who like to drive not only around the city, but also off-road. Despite the fact that motards are equipped with a road tire, they do not give up their positions on potholes. They rush along the dirt road no less quickly. A motard will be appropriate where a sports bike will be given up, and a classic bike will simply remain in the garage.

cubic capacity

Cubic capacity is the working volume of the engine, measured in cm3. This indicator varies depending on the model:

• 125 cubic meters are small-capacity engines with low power ratings. They are most often equipped with mopeds used for traveling short distances.
• 250cc are small displacement engines that are lightweight, easy to control and predictable. They are great for the daily tasks of getting from point A to point B.
• 400 cc are inexpensive engines that were originally developed by Japanese companies. A little heavier than 250 cc engines, but they have much more power. The popularity of models with a 400 cc engine lies not only in cost, but also in ease of development.
• 600 cc - a bike equipped with a similar engine is suitable for those who have been riding for several seasons and have some experience in operating powerful devices. It will also be good for riding outside the city to try out all the capabilities of the motorcycle.

When choosing your first motorcycle, it is best to look at a vehicle with a small volume. According to buyers, the optimal working volume of the model for a beginner is up to 250 cubic meters. If you expect frequent driving on intercity highways, then a maximum of 600 cubic meters. The fact is that bikes with larger engines have their own characteristics that not every driver is able to cope with.

Functional

Transport can be equipped with many functions - modern technologies allow this. However, some of the most useful are the following:

• ABS will prevent the wheels from locking;
• ACC will allow you to control speed indicators in heavy city traffic;
• AWC will limit front wheel lift;
• TCS will provide stability and prevent tires from losing traction.

But on the track, a powerful engine, stability and good aerodynamic performance will be useful.

Color and design

Choosing a color is an important task not only from an aesthetic point of view, but also from a practical one. After all, it is the color that makes a motorcyclist stand out on the road and allows other road users to notice the bike.

Many drivers forget about the existence of motorcycles after winter, because during the cold season (especially in regions where winter is harsh), the number of two-wheeled vehicles on the roads decreases sharply. And in the spring it increases.

The brightly painted body in combination with chrome parts will help the small bike stand out against the background of the flow of passenger cars, even in the dark. Lovers of the classics can choose black or white trim. Fans of piercing tones will appreciate models with acid yellow or fiery red elements.

Manufacturer

All manufacturers of two-wheeled vehicles can be divided into three categories - American manufacturers, European and Asian.

It is difficult to say which brand of motorcycle is better. But among the American ones, Harley-Davidson and Indian should be highlighted. Among European companies, Ducati, BMW, Aprilia, Triumph, KTM, MV Agusta are especially famous. The best Asian brands are Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki.

Popular models are produced by Racer, MTL, ZID, LIFAN, Bajaj.

Price

How much does a motorcycle cost today?

Models differ in price depending on the year of manufacture, power, technological features and manufacturer. The higher all these indicators, the more expensive the bike is.

You should also take into account the costs of uniforms - a helmet (from 10,000 rubles), a set of motorcycle clothing (from 20,000 rubles), crash bars (from 10,000 rubles).

It is important to remember that you should not skimp on motorcycle equipment, because it is aimed at protecting and saving the life of the pilot in emergency situations. In addition, riding without a helmet is punishable by a fine.

Gasoline should also be added to the expense item. The “gluttony” of a particular model should be assessed not only according to the characteristics declared by the manufacturer, but also based on reviews from the owners.

Suzuki Bandit 400

The most "boyish" of all. Suzuki Bandit is a direct competitor to Honda Bros 650 and Honda CB1. They have a similar fit, dimensions and habits. The clip-ons, like on the other two, do not allow you to relax your back, but for a city “roast” this is a pretty good motorcycle. The engine, like all Suzukis, is noisy, but relatively reliable. But spare parts, as practice shows, are 10-15% more expensive than Honda. As with the RF400, there are two versions with different boosts: redhead (VC) and greyhead. However, chasing more horses while neglecting the overall condition of the bike is a bad idea. The main thing is the frame (after all, “precise” motorcycles are especially susceptible to encountering solid objects), the numbers on it (because the frame rots, leaving no trace of the number) and the engine, because repairing it in the case of a motorcycle from the 90s is guaranteed to be expensive half the cost of the motorcycle itself or more. Carburetors, which everyone is guilty of, are really quite capricious when used in damp and cold conditions, but with proper adjustment (and it is far from being as complicated as everyone says), they are able to keep the engine running perfectly.

Main technical characteristics

Yamaha SRX 400

I don’t even expect that you, dear reader, have heard of him. However, the motorcycle is rare, but extremely simple and reliable. It’s not that difficult to find spare parts for it, but you’ll have to look, they definitely won’t be available at the next disassembly. The dynamics are rather weak, the motorcycle is in its average condition for this budget (live ones start at 90 thousand rubles), it can change a hundred in 10 seconds, with a rated speed of 8.9. The reason for this is an old single-barrel engine from an even much older enduro XT-400 Artesia with 33 horses, but despite their number, they differ from the same 33 on Honda Bros. But there are also significant advantages, such as weight, low seating and dimensions. And it will be easier to repair a single-barreled gun, which is a plus for those who want to learn how to turn nuts. After all, there is a lot to twist here, and the main thing is that you can definitely put it back together. And given its overall reliability, it will be possible to indulge in tuning without thinking about major repairs.

Rating of quality models for 2021

RACER MAGNUM RC200-C5B

Manufacturer: RACER (Russia).

Weight – 126 kg.

Average price – 60,000 rubles.

A Russian-made bike that is perfect for the collection of an avid motorcycle racer as a city transport. High power of the installed 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 197 cubic meters and 14 hp. allows you to reach speeds of up to 110 km/h, and at the same time it easily operates at low speeds. The vehicle is started using an electric starter, supplemented by a kick starter. The fuel tank holds 18 liters of fuel, with a consumption of 2.2 liters per 100 km.

RACER MAGNUM RC200-C5B

Advantages:

• telescopic front suspension;
• disc brake system;
• classic dashboard;
• easy to maintain and replace parts;
• spacious fuel tank;
• two reinforced rear shock absorbers;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• with air cooling system.

STELS Flame-200

Manufacturer: Stels (Russia).

Weight – 132 kg.

Average price – 90,000 rubles.

A light and fast motorbike with an impressive body design will be a worthy choice for both experienced and novice drivers. On the road it maneuvers well and reaches speeds of up to 150 km/h without any problems. Four-stroke engine 13 hp. with chain transmission has a volume of 197 cubic meters. Thanks to the disc front brake, the Stealth Flame is controllable and safe. The fuel tank holds 17 liters.

STELS Flame-200

Advantages:

• comfortable sitting;
• economical engine;
• large fuel tank;
• hybrid launch type;
• telescopic fork;
• low-cost maintenance and repairs.

Flaws:

• air-oil cooling;
• Not the best quality tires.

Yamaha YBR-125

Manufacturer: Yamaha (Japan).

Weight (fully equipped) – 125 kg.

Average price – 200,000 rubles.

Small displacement bike made in Asia. It is the embodiment of the basic principles of Yamaha - durability, unpretentiousness, reliability. It will be an excellent option for those who are preparing to take their first steps into the world of motorcycles. The design is equipped with a 4-stroke engine with a displacement of 124 cm3. Even taking into account the small volume, the 10 horsepower engine is capable of boasting good traction, which will allow it to accelerate to 120 km per hour. There is a roomy seat that can comfortably accommodate two passengers. The classic design is complemented by large 18-inch wheels. The fuel tank capacity is 13 liters.

Yamaha YBR-125

Advantages:

• flagship model;
• noticeable appearance;
• ability to choose colors;
• with electric starter;
• with suspension adjustment function;
• powerful engine with long service life;
• front hydraulic disc brakes;
• low level of vibration;
• economical fuel consumption.

Flaws:

• cooling system – air.

MINSK TRX-300i

Manufacturer: MINSK (Belarus).

Weight – 155 kg.

Average price – 300,000 rubles.

The series to which the TRX-300i belongs is known for its updated functionality of classic travel devices. However, this enduro bike stands out from the rest. It was literally created for long journeys along highways, and its practicality and reliability have already been appreciated by participants in several major motorcycle races. A comfortable saddle with recesses under the knees allows you to increase the length of time behind the wheel. The engine is 4-stroke, 250 cc with a power of 26 hp. Fuel supply is injection. Fuel consumption is low, about 4 liters per 100 km. Braking is provided by a hydraulic drive, as well as front and rear disc brakes.

MINSK TRX-300i

Advantages:

• with electric starter;
• with electronic (CDI) ignition;
• with telescopic fork;
• three luggage cases;
• LED optics;
• informative dashboard;
• comfortable position of the footrests;
• comfortable steering wheel;
• stylish design.

Flaws:

• manual transmission;
• difficulty in replacing parts;
• not the best fuel filter.

Kawasaki Ninja 250-SL

Manufacturer: Kawasaki (Japanese).

Weight (fully equipped) – 152 kg.

Average price – 350,000 rubles.

A sportbike from a Japanese manufacturer that has already become legendary. It will allow you not only to easily overcome city obstacles, but also to fully experience driving on country roads. You can fully experience the possibilities of transport on the highway. Equipped with 11 liter fuel tanks and a single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 249 cubic meters. Together with a power of 28 hp. “ninja” is capable of accelerating quickly – up to 100 km in 6 seconds. Front disc brakes combined with rear petal brakes do not overheat even with frequent braking, which is very important when driving in congested city traffic. Smooth ride, excellent maneuverability, excellent handling and an improved transmission - all this makes the unit stand out from other bikes.

Kawasaki Ninja 250-SL

Advantages:

• bright corporate style;
• sporty fit;
• high ground clearance;
• good engine capabilities;
• high-quality braking system;
• lightweight but durable frame;
• digital instrument panel;
• with liquid cooling;
• stable.

Flaws:

• price;
• transmissions are short.

KTM 390-DUKE

Manufacturer: KTM (Austria).

Weight (excluding fuel) – 149 kg.

Average cost – 400,000 rubles.

The Austrian manufacturer KTM's lineup includes many good models, but the 390-DUKE has one of the best features. The model belongs to the second generation and will give its owner true driving pleasure - both in the urban jungle and on winding country roads. The first thing to note is excellent handling and lightness. Secondly, the working volume of the single-cylinder 4-stroke engine reaches 373 cubic meters. Engine power is 44 horsepower. The fuel tank capacity is 13 liters.

KTM 390-DUKE

Advantages:

• with liquid cooling;
• with electric starter;
• with electronic fuel injection;
• steel frame;
• comfortable steering wheel;
• multifunctional dashboard;
• reliable braking system;
• side mounted exhaust system;
• responsive management;
• bright design.

Flaws:

• The ABS algorithm has not been fully developed.

Royal Enfield Continental-GT

Manufacturer: Royal Enfield (India).

Weight – 184 kg.

Average cost – 500,000 rubles.

A universal type model that is suitable for both the city and the highway. The convenient location of the steering wheel and the classic driver's position allow you to stay in motion for a long time. Lightweight design and small dimensions ensure ease of maneuvering. And two shock absorbers will help you overcome bumps. The volume of the 4-stroke engine with 1 cylinder is 499 cubic meters with a power of 29.1 hp. The fuel tank capacity is 13.5 liters. Maximum speed – 195 km per hour.

Royal Enfield Continental-GT

Advantages:

• steel frame;
• high-quality shock absorbers;
• telescopic fork with soft stroke;
• hybrid starting system;
• streamlined silhouette.

Flaws:

• the seat accommodates only one passenger;
• air cooling system.

Triumph Street Twin

Manufacturer: Triumph (UK).

Weight – 198 kg.

Average price – 800,000 rubles.

A modern motorcycle of the Bonneville series, which stands out for its cool spirit, excellent appearance and impressive sound. It will interest even the most demanding motorcyclists - a low seat, a comfortable fit and characteristics that will ensure driving stability on any road. Despite its significant weight, the bike is maneuverable and would be a good first vehicle for a novice motorcyclist. The power of a two-cylinder engine with a working volume of 900 cubic meters is 55 hp. The fuel tank capacity is 12 liters with a consumption of 0.045 liters per 100 km.

Triumph Street Twin

Advantages:

• proven ergonomics;
• excellent chassis;
• clear and intuitive controls;
• telescopic suspension;
• with liquid cooling;
• with two shock absorbers;
• economical motor;
• ample opportunities for tuning.

Flaws:

• price;
• difficult to buy in Russia.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

Manufacturer: Honda (Japan).

Weight (fully equipped) – 230 kg.

Average price – 900,000 rubles.

The second generation model, which caused considerable resonance among fans of the original version. But this bike deserves attention due to its good technical parameters. 95 hp motor with two cylinders has a working volume of 1000 cubic meters. The fuel tank can hold 18.8 liters of gasoline, and therefore the motorcycle can cover 400 km without refueling. Thanks to its compact size and maneuverability, the vehicle is perfect for city roads, while its off-road performance is also high. Tourists will like it because of the high comfort of movement and safety that the automatic transmission can provide. The ABS system is designed in such a way that it is possible to adjust the transport capabilities to specific road conditions. The model is presented in three color modifications.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin

Advantages:

• lightweight but durable frame;
• clear controls;
• three levels of HSTC and ABS control;
• two ways to fix the seat;
• improved aerodynamic performance;
• correct arrangement of the main elements.

Flaws:

• narrow chair.

BMW R NineT-Racer

Manufacturer: BMW (Germany).

Weight (fully equipped) – 220 kg.

Average price – 1,000,000 rubles.

A European-made model in the style of motor vehicles of the 70s, whose technical characteristics are a combination of established BMW traditions and modern features so necessary for a city motorcycle. Capable of reaching speeds of over 200 km/h. The working volume of the two-cylinder boxer engine with 110 “horses” is 1170 cubic meters, which means that it is possible to realize the full power of the bike on the highway, but it will also be quite comfortable in the city. The sporty driving position promotes the most dynamic movement, including on bends. Fuel consumption is 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers while maintaining a speed of 90 km/h. The volume of the fuel tank is 17 liters.

BMW R NineT-Racer

Advantages:

• with telescopic fork;
• cast tubeless wheels;
• powerful engine;
• stylish design;
• dual instrument panel;
• excellent ergonomics;
• high quality materials.

Flaws:

• with air-oil cooling;
• high price;
• expensive service.

Engine power

We have already written that a small power of up to 300 cubic meters is optimal for beginners. There are a lot of discussions on this matter. We propose to understand why this indicator is preferable.

Motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 250 cc/cm are light and flexible. Almost everything is suitable for beginners, except “cross” and “enduro”, because Only tall people can sit on them comfortably.

Bikes up to 400 cc/cm are a category also suitable for beginners. Among the motorcycles there is a large selection of medium-heavy models with acceptable handling. You should start with less, that is, with 250-300 cubic meters. After all, bikes with a 400 cc engine weigh about 200 kg.

Motorcycles with an engine capacity of more than 400 cc are not suitable as first bikes. They are bright, impressive, powerful. That is why you can ride them later, after practicing the initial skills.

Aprilia RSV Mille

don't buy Aprilia RSV Mille motorcycles

Troy Corser rode this bike to the World Superbike Championship. In 2000 he won the title of II vice-champion. The “civilian” motorcycle has a brutal “kick in the ass”. It rides on rubber in all seasons, which has its consequences in durability. The Mille was revised in 2001, but many defects remained.

The biggest disadvantages - motorcycle review

The biggest problem will be the service . Few workshops will undertake to do everything they want in it.

So what to do? The Rotax engine in the chassis is terribly technically complex: suffice it to say that in the rear cylinder head, in addition to two camshafts, there is also a shaft that balances these rollers. The engine has a fundamental flaw in the lubrication system.

The oil tire in the crankshaft is poorly made, and the connecting rod is rubbing . And this smells like a major overhaul, and the mechanic who takes it on will be faced with a serious problem - there are no marks on the timing wheels. The system is so complex that after disassembly, a disassembled motorcycle has no chance of putting it back together. Experienced mechanics cope with this problem by making special stencils.

Aprilia spare parts, online order

In any case, repairs are a big waste of money and the availability of spare parts is poor, so some people buy a used but functional engine. I'm sure any Mille lover will give up this bike after purchasing the third engine.

The next harmful part - the clutch has a vacuum booster, in which the diaphragm cracks and the device does not work.

An aluminum frame manufactured before 2000 has a serious drawback: the base of the upper bearing of the frame head is located there. The matter is irreparable. Mille also doesn't have very good electrics. Charging failure is a common problem.

In addition, the RSV engine vibrates very strongly , which leads to cracking of various chassis parts. Aprilia dealt with this problem in 2001 by repositioning the engine in a new frame.

Sportbike Kawasaki VN 750

don't buy Kawasaki VN 750 motorcycles

This motorcycle can be called “the designer’s revenge.” Kawasaki's 750 V2 was designed as a sports bike designed to take down Harley in American racing. Only the rules were changed (deliberately to keep the Japanese out) and Akashi had to do something with the new engine. It was placed in 1985 on a rather slender chopper chassis. That same year, the Kawasaki sportbike was sold in the United States as the 700, but a year later it was sold there as the 750.

The biggest disadvantages - motorcycle review

The engine is technically very complex , and today it would be difficult to find a mechanic who would consciously undertake to do something with it. The V2 engine has up to four (!) timing chains and eight sliders (not counting the two top covers). Sliding shuttles (four) have four tensioners.

Automatic tensioners are used for the two long top chains, while the bottom two, leading from the shaft to the idler wheels, are usually extension springs.

Timing belt replacement cost . All this works quite reliably when the motorcycle is new, and even when it is 10 years old (which is why the VN 750 has been produced for as long as 22 years). But eventually it has to wear out. And replacing the entire valve timing in this engine is a very difficult (and expensive) step.

Kawasaki spare parts (Kawasaki), online order

Emergency oil regulators . Valve clearance is adjusted hydraulically - oil adjusters are located in the heads where the levers are supported. They are not very durable and require replacement after a few years.

Complex Keihin CVK 34 carburetors have additional mixture enrichment systems, which after a while stop working, and their dismantling borders on a miracle. On a 20 year old bike, even if the throttle bellows aren't cracked and the throttle bodies don't have too much clearance, the carburetors are rusty and loose, which can cause the injectors to break.

Lack of factory materials . Only with the injectors and the factory book in hand will you know which version of the motorcycle you are dealing with. And there were 12 of them. For example, the VN 750 for the Canadian market had 68 hp, for the European market 66 hp. and for the Swiss 37 hp. Without knowing the version, it is impossible to properly tune the motorcycle.

Kawasaki KLX 650R

don't buy Kawasaki KLX 650 R motorcycles

First there was the mild enduro KLX 650, but after three years of poor sales in 1996, Kawasaki replaced it with the more off-road KLX-em 650 R. Throughout production, they tried to improve the bike, but there was always something wrong.

Biggest disadvantages

A large single-cylinder engine consumes oil , even if it has low mileage. Even changing the piston and rings in 2000 did not help.

The engine is difficult to start , especially after a wet night (mostly a carburetor malfunction). Starting is not easy, the basic and most popular version of the motorcycle only has a kickstarter and is quite expensive. In order for the engine to start, sometimes you need to kick it for quite a long time and vigorously. It's difficult to convey this through compression, even if it has an automatic decompressor.

The decompressor often fails . It works centrifugally, opening one of the exhaust valves. The moving elements of the decompressor are connected by a rivet, which can be loosened, and then a knocking noise can be heard when the engine is running. You can take the engine apart and press on the rivet, but after a while it will loosen again. Then the only salvation is to replace the exhaust camshaft along with the decompressor.

Damage to the timing chain tensioner is very common . The bar has cut grooves that secure the latch after installing the tensioner in the engine to eliminate chain slack. The grooves are too shallow and the tensioner bounces back, weakening the chain.

If the RPM is high and the driver does not react in time to the increased timing noise, the chain can jump onto the sprockets, causing the piston to collide with the valves and damage the engine. Kawasaki did not deal with this problem until the end of production of the KLX, so replacing the tensioner will not help.

The valve system is also bad . Valves quickly fail and lose clearance.

A couple of tips

• It is not necessary to immediately buy a motorcycle, equipment and an expensive helmet. First you can check: you really want this or this is just a momentary hobby. Try yourself at a motorcycle school, take a class in enduro or motocross - there they will give you equipment and a motorcycle, show you how to ride, and tell you about the difficulties of such a hobby.
• It’s not worth going “long-range” right away. First, you should gain experience, travel on different roads, and train yourself in driving on small weekend routes. When you feel confident, then you can go to another city or even another country, but still don’t immediately leave thousands of kilometers from home.
• You need to accept that things may not go according to plan. The weather will change, the bike will break down, and, unfortunately, you may get injured. If you are not ready for this, it is better not to get on a motorcycle, otherwise the first difficulty may lead to disappointment.

Of course, the main thing is inner fire. If you are willing to take risks, invest money and learn new things, then everything will work out - you will enjoy a completely different perception of every road and every turn.