Track therapy: who needs to go to the track on a motorcycle and why?

• 08.02.2019
• /
• Moto, Moto
• /
• Anna Asoshina

If we ask a child how a motorcycle rides, we will hear the answer: “Vzzzzhuh.” The motorcycle is not only small in size, which gives it maneuverability, but also quite fast.

The world record was set by Rocky Robinson in 2010. He reached 606 kilometers per hour on a Suzuki Hayabusa Ack Attack motorcycle. Externally, the motorcycle looks more like a rocket than a motorcycle itself, which is not surprising considering the speed it can reach. Bill Warner set the record on a regular motorcycle. He accelerated to 502 kilometers per hour.

Standard road bikes

Classic

They are the founders of all subsequent types and modifications of this type of transport. The classic bike is universal in its characteristics and is suitable for both beginners and experienced drivers. It is very convenient for use on city streets and does not become very tiring during everyday driving over long distances. Prices for classic bikes are relatively low, and the cost of maintenance and replacement of parts is also low.

The characteristic features of such a motorcycle are the classic design, which ensures a straight seat for the biker, and design. The seat is soft, the steering wheel is straight. The headlight is round, there is a footrest, rear shock absorbers (suspension), and a telescopic fork. Weight is in the range of 150-250 kg.

Classic motorcycles:

• easy to maintain and manage;
• reliable;
• highly maneuverable.

They are distinguished from sports motorcycles by a less agile engine and the absence of fairings, and from a chopper by a less free rider position.

Typical representatives of the classic motorbike: Java 350 type 638-00 (1988), Triumph Bonneville T100.

British classic motorcycle Triumph Bonneville T100 (Triumph Bonneville T100)

Neoclassical

This type includes modern motorcycles made in retro style, carrying the spirit of a bygone era in their design and appearance. This could be a specially conceived project or a consequence of a halt in the development of the motorcycle line (they continue to be produced without any serious modernization).

One example of a neoclassical motorcycle is the Ural cT.

Suzuki Katana

Price: about 1,100,000 rubles

Suzuki Katana . By presenting a katana, the Japanese made a beautiful bow to lovers of retro style. The new model references the legendary 1981 Katana GSX 1100 . The work is made of plastic, a square headlight with a characteristic fairing, logo and lettering in an old school style. Since the Katana's engine comes from the well-known GSX-Sa 1000, it's hard to complain about the lack of emotion.

You might like TOP 10 Best Used Cars 2021: Which One Should You Buy?

Power ► 150 hp at 10,000 rpm. Torque ► 108 N m at 9500 rpm. Weight with liquids ► 215 kg

American style motorcycles

Custom

In most cases, this type of bike is made to order in a unique design or in several copies. Most often it is a product of alteration. For this purpose, either one motorcycle of a certain model is used, or several varieties that are mass-produced. Re-equipment can be carried out by both individual craftsmen and workshops.

All motorcycles of this type are original in essence, because they are created according to their owner’s ideas about the “iron trotter” standard and fully meet his needs.

The example is the 1976 Honda CB550F Super Sport from Recast Moto.

A variation of this type of motorcycle is the brat custom , which is based on the developments of Japanese craftsmen “Brat Style”. This workshop is a pioneer in the production of bikes using a mix style (cafe racer, chopper, tracker).

Characteristic features of a Bret Custom:

• average engine capacity;
• shortened suspension;
• narrow fuel tank located closer to the seat;
• narrowed steering wheel;
• shortened rear wheel fender;
• not pretentious, but interesting appearance.

As an example, consider the Honda CX-500.

Scrambler

As a rule, this type includes “classic” style motorcycles, which are intended not only for daily travel, but also for off-road driving. This is achieved by redesigning the bike and reducing its weight. Currently, there are modifications of motorcycles, both custom-made and mass-produced.

The scrambler is distinguished by the presence of:

• studded (embossed) tires;
• shortened frame;
• long travel suspensions;
• spoked wheels;
• raised muffler.

A custom representative of scramblers is the Triumph Street Scrambler (Tramontana project).

Bobbers

They do not have design frills that would impede the rapid driving so necessary for racing competitions. In particular, the bobber lacks a wing over the front wheel, there are no brakes, and there is no dashboard. The frame has been reconstructed and the rear fender has been shortened. Minor fasteners are removed from the bike.

To make it light and maneuverable, many structural elements are replaced with smaller ones: fuel tank, saddle, headlight, battery. Another characteristic feature of a bobber is the identical wheels.

A typical representative of the class is the BMW R75/5 1973 from GT-Moto.

Choppers

A heavy motorcycle in the made in USA style involuntarily evokes associations with true bikers. You can't help but notice him - he simply attracts attention. Technical characteristics allow you to make impressive trips along city streets. The main thing in these bikes is not the engine power, but the appearance.

You can find choppers that are mass-produced, but for true bike enthusiasts and the entire subculture, they prefer do-it-yourself ones. You won’t see a single plastic part on this bike; it contains a large amount of chrome.

Choppers also have the following characteristics:

• seat in two levels, located low;
• the driver's position allows you to stretch your legs forward;
• low speed engine;
• the steering wheel is longer;
• the rear wheel is small in diameter but wide;
• The fuel tank is drop-shaped.

The representative of the new chopper is Custom-Wolf Harley-Davidson.

Dregsters

Heavy class bike with a powerful, highly accelerated engine. Used for mini-races on public roads with a section length of slightly more than 400 meters.

This type of motorcycle is equipped with a long wheelbase and special stabilizing stays that prevent rear tipping. In order to protect against fire, especially in sports models, the tank is made of fire-resistant material, since nitric oxide and nitromethane are often used as fuel.

The main features of a dregster:

• the presence of durable fairings;
• low center of gravity;
• high structural stability;
• small front and large rear wheels.

Examples include Kawasaki VN1500 Drifter, Harley-Davidson V-Rod, and Yamaha Dragstar.

Motorcycle Yamaha Dragstar

Cruiser (cruiser)

A motorcycle with a spectacular American style appearance is used by lovers of long roads. The convenient design allows the biker to sit vertically in the saddle of a steel horse and feel comfortable. His body does not experience tension for a long time.

Thanks to the high-raised steering wheel and low-set seat, the hands are parallel to the road. Equipping a motorcycle with a good suspension softens the shaking on small potholes and potholes.

The cruiser is still not intended for driving on bad roads, nor for driving fast. The motorcycle is not very maneuverable, so you shouldn’t drive recklessly, especially on sharp turns, otherwise you may lose your balance.

In addition to the above features, this motorcycle is different:

• strong brakes;
• powerful engine;
• drop tank;
• wheels of the same size;

Among the disadvantages, significant fuel consumption can be noted.

A representative of this species is the Yamaha Raider S.

Power cruiser

This bike has a more durable design and features similar to a sportbike. The engine exceeds 100 horsepower, has a strong and reliable braking system, and has an inverted fork.

Sample – Yamaha Raider Bullet Cowl.

Lux cruiser

The special equipment the bike is equipped with allows you to comfortably make long trips. Thanks to the spacious trunks, you can take the necessary things on the road. And the presence of a navigator, air conditioning and a stereo system creates additional convenience. Features also include a built-in headlight in a voluminous plastic fairing that protects the motorcyclist and his legs from the wind.

There are very few brands of this motorcycle around the world, as they are produced in small batches. A typical representative of the class is the Indian Chieftain.

Dresser

A type of cruiser that is equipped with additional elements:

• fairings;
• chrome trim;
• voluminous trunks, bags, etc.

Additional accessories began to be offered by Indian and Harley-Davidson in the middle of the last century. There were people who wanted to decorate their bikes with a full dress. Later, such motorcycles began to be called dresser. Currently, among American bikers this is the name given to touring models equipped with panniers and fairings.

Java

Price: about 173,000 rubles

This Java comes from India . The traction motor corresponds to a capacity of 293 cm3, reminiscent of the appearance of the Java 250 / +350 Panelka drive unit of the last century.

Interestingly, despite the finned cylinder, the car is liquid cooled rather than air cooled. Two chrome-plated exhaust pipes are brought down, spokes are made on the rims, and the fuel tank has the shape of a characteristic drop.

So everything looks good and actually looks like a Czech car. The motorcycle is simply beautiful and evokes sentimental feelings, for which it received second place. New Java in India costs INR 164,000 Unfortunately, we don't know if or when it will arrive in Europe.

You might like the TOP 15 best car alarms - rating 2021-2022

Power ► 27 hp Torque ► 28 Nm. Weight ► approx. 170 kg

Off-road motorcycles

They are produced to conquer off-road terrain, all kinds of jumps and other obstacles. To do this, they are equipped with the appropriate equipment, which allows them to easily overcome areas where ordinary bikes would simply get stuck in a slip.

The following types of motorcycles are considered the most famous off-road vehicles:

• cross;
• enduro;
• motard;
• speedway, etc.

Cross

This type of motorcycle has one purpose - sports. It is not used on public routes, as there are no lighting devices on it. They are not designed for city driving.

Distinctive features are:

• small mass;
• reliable frame;
• long travel suspension.

They are almost always equipped with a two-stroke engine, which is started by a kick starter. All this together makes the bike a good cross racer. There are no excesses.

Examples include:

• Suzuki RM250(2T)/RM-Z250(4T);
• Honda CRF250R;
• Yamaha YZ250.

There are modified models with 450 cubes. There are also miniature versions of this type of bike, which are produced for use in children's motocross races.

Enduro

They are heavier than motocross bikes and have a similar appearance to them, but are not as powerful. The main direction of these motorcycles is off-road tourism over relatively short distances. To do this, they are equipped with excellent suspensions that successfully smooth out road bumps, and a fairly wide seat. The upright seating position does not put as much strain on the torso while riding. At the same time, they have turn signals, headlights, a speedometer, a mirror, a muffler - everything that makes it possible to drive on city streets.

Examples include:

• Yamaha TT250R Open Enduro;
• GEON X-Road 200 BMW;
• Suzuki DR-Z400.

On enduro you can not only maneuver in the bustle of the city, but also learn how to ride a motorcycle. How to choose an enduro for a beginner is described here.

Motards

Designed for regular roads, but can also cope well with off-road conditions. Motards are characterized by a high rider position, ease of control and a fairly powerful engine.

This type of motorcycle includes:

• BM Motard 200;
• BMW G650 X;
• Suzuki 250SB;
• Honda FMX 650;
• Yamaha XT660X.

Speedway

Structurally, it is designed specifically for circuit ice racing. There is no gearbox, brakes, fairings, but there are spikes (almost 3 cm). These motorcycles are integral to the sport. At the same time, manufacturers decided to create a more popular version available to ordinary citizens.

Harley-Davidson was the first to produce the Peashooter (350 cc), which could be purchased by almost anyone. Soon, the Indian company began producing the Prince bike with approximately the same cost and engine capacity. We can’t help but mention the Jawa motorcycle, the legendary winner of many speedway competitions.

Ducati Panigale V4 R

Price: about 3,600,000 rubles

Ducati Panigale V4 R. It is equipped with a liquid-cooled Desmosedici Stradale R with a volume of 998 cm 3 . With a volume of less than 105 cc, it can compete in World Superbike (WSB) competitions. Despite its smaller capacity, the R version is more powerful than the production Panigale V4.

When it comes to equipment, the V4 R comes with extensive traction control, six-axis IMU, anti-lock ABS, quick up and down shifting, wheelie control, engine brake adjustment, multiple riding modes and DSC (Ducati Slide Control).

The Panigale V4 R demonstrates its sporting ambitions down to the last detail. The car has additional wings on the sides of the fairings. This solution was taken from Superbike and MotoGP racing. Suspension was provided by Öhlins - NPX 25-30 at the front and TTX36 shock at the rear . Braking is provided by Brembo Stylema calipers and a 330mm disc.

Power ► 221 hp at 15,250 rpm. Torque ► 112 Nm at 11,500 rpm. Weight with fluids ► 193 kg * unapproved version has 234 hp. and weight 165.5 kg (dry).

Sportbikes

This type of motorcycle is the most powerful and fastest. It is designed for road-circuit motorcycle racing. These motorcycles have low fuel consumption. Servicing them is not difficult.

Superbike

A version of a sportbike, but even faster, more powerful, and easier to ride. The most famous representatives:

• Triumph Daytona 675;
• Yamaha YZF-R6;
• Honda CBR 1000RR;
• Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6RR.

Superbikes are often distinguished by the “factory tuning” of the Suzuki GSX-R 1000 sports motorcycle.

Naked (naked)

These motorcycles are completely free of plastic and cladding elements. At first they were made from sports bikes, for this reason they have the same technical data. In most cases, nakeds are driven on city streets, since due to the lack of fairings their speed is not so high, and the aerodynamics leave much to be desired.

An example would be motorcycles from well-known manufacturers: Honda CB1100 EX, Suzuki GS500E, etc.

Suzuki GS500E

Touring motorcycles

Large motorcycle. Designed for long journeys on motorways and other good roads. It is quite difficult to control, but at the same time it has a comfortable seating position for the motorcyclist and passenger. Other features:

• spacious fuel tank;
• low speed engine;
• equipped with safety equipment, cruise control, speakers.

One of the representatives of this type is Triumph America LT.

Sports tourer

Bikes that combine the features of a sports motorcycle and a tourer. Equipped with a powerful engine and excellent brakes, also high-speed. For such characteristics they are also called hyperbikes. The seating position ensures that the motorcyclist and passenger are comfortable during long journeys on the highway.

An excellent representative of this species is the Yamaha FJR1300AS.

Luxury tourer

Highly comfortable expensive motorcycles. The luxury type of tourist is, first of all, good additional equipment:

• air conditioner;
• wind protection;
• volumetric trunks;
• built-in navigation system;
• Cruise control;
• passenger armrests;
• heated steering wheel.

They are massive and stable, which allows you to comfortably travel long distances on them. Not intended for normal everyday driving.

A typical representative is the Honda GL1800 Gold Wing.

KTM 790 Adventure R

Price: about 1,485,000 rubles

KTM 790 Adventure R. Off-road maniacs and fans rejoice! At the EICMA exhibition in Milan, the Austrians showed the 790 SUV. Although it appears to be missing some fairings, the touring enduro will certainly perform well both on the road and in real-world terrain. Cubic tyres, spoked rims, beautiful suspension bounce (240mm), low weight (189kg), narrow bench and large fuel tank (20L) reminiscent of the Dakar vibe that these big naughty boys love most.

You might like the TOP 10 best car batteries 2021: how and which one to choose?

Power ► 95 hp at 8000 rpm Torque ► 88 Nm at 6600 rpm Dry weight ► 189 kg

Minibike

The name itself speaks for itself - this is a small-sized motorcycle. Despite its small weight and dimensions, this bike is quite maneuverable and quickly picks up speed. The most difficult thing for a mini-motorcycle owner is learning to maintain balance.

Minibike Honda Monkey

Basically, the minibike is intended for racing on kart tracks. But traveling on public roads is not very comfortable.

Confederate B120 Wraith – $92,500

0
The bike is made of aluminum and carbon fiber, combining futuristic design with the aesthetics of the retro motorcycles of the past. The motorcycle weighs only 177 kg, and it can accelerate to almost 300 km/h. In its class, the Confederate is the most expensive and fastest motorcycle in the world. It is equipped with a V-engine with a capacity of 125 horsepower. This motorcycle is designed for collectors of rare motorcycle models.

Children's motorcycles

Their purpose is mainly for the driver to gain off-road driving skills and be able to participate in sports motorcycle competitions. There are the following subtypes of children's bikes:

• moped;
• scooter;
• children's all-terrain vehicle.

A classic type moped has a pedal drive (chain drive to the rear wheel). It has a freewheel. The brake in the hub (rear wheel) is activated by reverse rotation of the pedals. There are mopeds that have a gearbox.

Scooters have smaller wheels than motorcycles. It is better suited for riding than a moped, which is important for beginners.

There is also a scooter, it is located in the middle of a scooter and a classic bike. In Russia this is a rather rare type of transport, but in the world this two-wheeler is almost the most common.

Neiman Marcus Limited Edition Fighter – $110,000

0
This motorcycle was created by Confederate Motor Co. The body is made of steel, making it look exclusive. In addition to its beautiful exterior, the motorcycle has high speed characteristics. There are only 45 of these motorcycles in the world. This model is distinguished by an extravagant design, a powerful two-cylinder engine with a volume of 1966 cubic centimeters and a five-speed gearbox. Its weight is 195 kilograms, and it can reach speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour.

Special purpose motorcycles

They are:

• police officers;
• firefighters;
• army;
• Ambulance.

This type also includes high cross-country vehicles.

Each type has its own characteristics. For example, a Russian electric motorcycle for special services from the Kalashnikov concern is distinguished by its noiselessness and ability to overcome rough terrain. It is used in reconnaissance, raids, and search operations. One charge is enough for 100 kilometers. Speed ​​– no more than 80 km/h. But the heavy concept bike “Izh” has 150 horses and reaches a speed of 240 km/h.

TRON Light Cycle – $77,000

0
In California, a copy of the Tron electric bike was auctioned for $77,000. And this is twice the amount that the organizers initially planned to raise: $25,000 - $40,000. The Lightcycle is a fully functional replica of the motorcycle from Tron, specially designed by Paul Andrews at a custom studio. The motorcycle is driven by an electric motor that can accelerate it to 100 km/h. The maximum power reserve is about 130 kilometers.

×

Motorcycles with sidecars

They are a heavy type of bike. The design includes a two-wheeled motorcycle and a one-wheeled side trailer (sidecar). It can be either fixed or removable.

In previous years, such a bike often served as a less expensive substitute for a passenger car. As a rule, it is distinguished by its heavy weight, low-speed and powerful engine.

The most famous representatives of the class:

• Dnepr 11, Dnepr 16;
• Yamaha D-Side by Deus 3;
• Ural GEAR-UP, etc.

Ural GEAR-UP
A motorcycle with a sidecar copes well with off-road conditions and transportation of large luggage, which is what it is intended for. During the Great Patriotic War, they were even used to pull cannons. It is not advisable to use it on highways, since the stability is quite low, especially at high speed. The drive can be not only on the rear wheel, but also on the cradle.

Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike – $550,000

0
It was presented to the general public back in 2003 and was remembered for its unusual design. Designers from DaimlerChrysler decided that each of their new creations should plunge the respectable public into a state of admiration. The front and rear wheels are double, there is a small distance of a few centimeters between both, and each has its own independent suspension. This design was required to absorb the torque from the 8.3-liter ten-cylinder engine. As a result, the bike’s power is 500 hp, and acceleration to 96 km/h occurs in 2.5 seconds. The lucky owner can theoretically accelerate to 480 km/h, which no one has yet dared to test in practice.

All-terrain vehicle

It resembles a motorcycle and is a small vehicle with the following characteristic features:

• three wheels or more;
• low pressure tires;
• basically a bicycle-like handlebar;
• seating – astride the seat.

This type of all-terrain vehicle can be either single or double. There are varieties:

• ATVs – four-wheeled off-road vehicles;
• trikes - three-wheeled all-terrain vehicles;
• special all-terrain vehicles – equipped with six or more wheels (or tracks).

Such a vehicle is a symbiosis of a car and a motorcycle, with high cross-country ability. This is an excellent technique for hunting or fishing trips, and a useful thing in the village.

The most popular manufacturers of this equipment: Kawasaki, Bombardier, Honda, Suzuki Yamaha.

Which brand of motorcycle to choose?

Traditionally, Asian and European companies compete for leadership in the motorcycle production sector. The following concerns succeed in this:

Kawasaki, Viper, Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda

The first company appeared back in 1896 and had two main offices in the capital of Japan and Kobe. Today, it is the largest concern in the world for the production of ATVs, sports and racing motorbikes. In addition to equipment, the company produces clothing and equipment for driving open vehicles.

The Viper brand is a direct competitor from a neighboring country - China, on whose territory many factories have been built to produce motorcycle and bicycle products. The Italian studio Italdesign helps them create the design of two-wheeled vehicles.

Suzuki has been conquering the automobile and motorcycle markets for over 100 years, and has a reputation as a reliable manufacturer not only in Japan, but throughout the world. It has more than 50,000 employees who specialize in vehicle design, engineering and testing.

Yamaha focuses on lightweight, high-speed motorcycle products. Japanese engineers monitor the quality of their units and constantly experiment with design.

Dual purpose motorcycle

Designed specifically for driving on asphalt roads, as well as on rough terrain. At the end of the 60s of the last century, the Yamaha concern released the first batch of bikes that combined the properties of road motorcycles and DT-1 SUVs. Subsequently the DR350 was produced.

Enduro Dual Sport BMW 1200 GS (left) and dual-purpose motorcycle Suzuki DRZ400 (right)

The division of motorcycle equipment into types is not always uniform. Some bikes can immediately belong to different types. And although there is no absolutely accurate classification of motorcycles, it is possible, given the current state of affairs, to find the equipment that would suit you best.

Gregory

Blog author

Yamaha YZF1000 Thunderace – soft “airplane”

This model of the Japanese concern has a one-liter engine and a maximum speed of up to 260 km/h. The design is equipped with a well-thought-out frame with a very comfortable fit for the driver. The side trim branches out in the engine area and creates pockets for air cooling. Control is carried out by gearless rotation of the front wheel.

The motorcycle is equipped with disc brakes and one muffler on the right. A small seat without a restrictor is provided for the passenger. To cover 100 km of travel you will need 6.5 liters of gasoline. The driver has five speeds at his disposal. The total weight of the unit is 200 kg. When driving on the highway, one full tank is enough for 300 km. Power has a limit of 145 hp. The model belongs to the professional category and is not suitable for beginner motorcyclists.

Advantages:

durable frame; smooth acceleration dynamics; soft grip; easy to control; does not roar very much; stylish design; comfortable steering wheel.

Flaws:

heavy; the rear wheel skids; rubber wears out quite quickly; some models increase fuel consumption; When picking up speed, the front wheel lifts.