Cruiser
Cruisers are a cool bike. There’s no real way to get around it. They came in around the 1930s, with Harley Davidson and Henderson pretty much leading the way, and giving motorcycling a bit of a different persona (it’s not just to get you from A to B, it was for the love of the ride, the comfort and, let’s be honest, looking good). A well-designed cruiser ticks the boxes for form and function. The ergonomics of a cruiser are carefully crafted to support long, ‘doing this just because I love it’ rides; you can enjoy long journeys without feeling physically fatigued.
A signature for the cruiser is the mid-mounted, swept-back handlebar, designed to be within easy reach, promoting a sense of control and stability. Cruisers are known for their laid-back and relaxed riding position, low seat height, and classic styling. They often have larger engines, and their design emphasises comfort and style over high performance.
Sportbike
Sportbikes are designed for high-performance riding, featuring aggressive riding positions, powerful engines, and aerodynamic designs. Built for speed and agility on the road or track, sportbikes aren't your average Joe bikes. These bikes handle really well, particularly for seasoned riders, thanks to their lightweight build and top suspension systems. You can tackle sharp corners with precision and their aerodynamic means you get a lot of air on jumps. New model sportbikes typically have advanced technology on everything from traction control to quick-shift systems, as an industry of bikes always wanting to get a leading edge on function. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of high-speed riding or simply appreciate the aesthetics of a sleek machine, sportbikes are considered the speed racers of bikes.
Touring
Touring motorcycles are built for freedom. With comfortable seating, ample storage space, wind protection features and rider/passenger comfort, they're tailored for the long haul, long-distance riding adventures. Comfort and convenient functions are the name of the game when it comes to touring motorcycles.
What sets them apart is how comfortable they are. Picture a seat that's built for cosiness, so you won't end up with a numb rear end after hours of riding. They also have plenty of space to stash your stuff. You can fit in everything you need for your trip, from spare clothes to snacks and even some camping gear.
These bikes can be advanced with their gadget functions. They come with all sorts of cool tech stuff, like GPS systems to guide you, entertainment setups for your journey, and even seats designed for your passenger to be comfy too. So, whether you're setting off on a big adventure or just want to cruise comfortably, touring motorcycles are a perfect fit..
Adventure (ADV) motorcycles
Adventure (ADV) motorcycles are versatile machines designed for both on-road and off-road riding. They typically have taller suspensions, more rugged tires, and better ground clearance to tackle various terrains.
ADVs offer you the opp to explore not just smooth roads, but also dirt trails, rugged terrain, and maybe even some off-the-beaten-path places. They're tough and built to handle all sorts of road conditions; whether; cruising on asphalt or tackling bumpy trails, these bikes can take it all in stride. Their sturdy construction and strong suspension systems make sure you stay in control even when the road gets rough.
Another cool thing is their comfortable setup. You'll find a nice upright seating position that's easy on your back and gives you a great view of your surroundings. Plus, they often come with comfy seats, perfect for those long journeys. And because adventure can sometimes mean travelling light or carrying extra stuff, these bikes usually have spots to attach bags or luggage, making it easier to bring your gear along.
ADVs are extremely versatile, they're not just limited to one type of road. You can take them on highways, dirt paths, gravel roads, and even some pretty tricky terrains.
Standard
Standard motorcycles are stripped-down models without extensive fairings or bodywork. They offer a more upright riding position and are versatile for urban commuting and light touring. These bikes are simple, straightforward, and versatile.
You won't find any fancy frills or complicated gadgets here. Just hop on, twist the throttle, and you're off. Because they're designed for simplicity, they tend to be lightweight and easy to handle, making them great for beginners or anyone who wants a laid-back riding experience. They have great ergonomics, so if you have a rough back, it could be the bike for you.
As for design, there’s a retro vibe to them. They howcase the essential parts of the motorcycle; visible engine and frame etc. They're not covered in a lot of plastic or extras and usually pretty affordable, both to buy and to maintain.
Whilst known for being ‘plain’, it’s pretty popular to customise them. Add different seats, change the handlebars, throw on some unique paint… Standard owners tend to like to leave their own mark. Kind of the beauty of having one, really.
Cafe Racer
Cafe racers are inspired by custom bikes from the 1960s; minimalist and vintage appearance, often with a forward-leaning riding position, low handlebars, and a distinctive retro style.
These bikes are stripped down to the essentials, with a minimalist signature design, but are often customised with unique paint jobs, custom seats, and you can even tweak the engine to give it a bit more oomph. Plus, because they're not overloaded with fancy features, they're usually pretty lightweight and nimble. This means you can have a blast zipping through city streets or tackling twisty roads with ease.
Bobber
Bobbers are custom motorcycles characterised by their minimalist and stripped-down appearance. They typically feature a "bobbed" or shortened rear fender, a solo seat, and a unique aesthetic. They’re a tribute to the past with a touch of modern individuality.
They’re also pretty stripped-down, back-to-basics by design. Bobber bikes take inspiration from the old-school mid-century motorcycles,trimmed down to their essential components, leaving only what's necessary for the ride. This gives them a clean and minimalistic appearance that is the hallmark of a Bobber (name derived from its trademark ‘bobbed’ - shortened - fender).
Because they're often modified from existing motorcycles, you can put your own spin on it by mixing and matching different parts, adding custom paint, and even changing the exhaust to give it a unique sound.
Chopper
Choppers are highly customised motorcycles with elongated front forks, extended front ends, and unique frame designs. They're known for their distinct style and customisation.
Chopper bikes take customisation to a whole new level. They’re meticulously handcrafted and often have elongated front forks, giving them that iconic stretched-out appearance. You usually see them with unique paint jobs, customised handlebars, and even creative modifications to the engine and exhaust.
Choppers often have a rebellious legacy, the bikes you see the cool rebel riding in 1960s and 1970s movies. Their reputation is more that they’re a symbol of appreciating the look of motorcycles at least as much as, if not more, than comfort and function (which is as valid and encouraged! Bikes can be art).
Dual-Sport
Dual-sport motorcycles are designed to be street legal while also capable of off-road riding. They have features like dirt-ready tires, long suspensions, and lightweight frames to handle different terrains.
These bikes are built to handle different terrains like a champ. They have a sturdy frame, tough suspension, and often knobby tires that give you a good grip on dirt paths. This means you can explore off-the-beaten-path places without worrying about whether your bike can handle it.
They are also fully street-legal. Unlike off-road dirt bikes, you can ride these on regular roads without any issues. This dual nature is where they get their name. So, whether you're commuting to work during the week or embarking on an epic adventure on the weekend, these bikes are up for the challenge. You'll also find that they tend to have a more upright seating position for comfort.
Trike
Trikes are three-wheeled motorcycles that offer increased stability compared to traditional two-wheelers. They can be built with a variety of styles, ranging from touring-oriented to more custom designs.
Trike motorcycles are the three-wheeled cousins of traditional two-wheelers, and they come with some pretty cool benefits that set them apart. They’re known for second-to-none stability, making them great for riders who are a bit nervous about balancing on two wheels, or mobility issues. You won't need to worry about putting your feet down at stops, and you'll have a confident grip on the road even in tricky situations.
Trikes often come with more spacious seats and more room to stretch out, making long rides super comfy. Trikes are also a great option for riders who have certain physical limitations, making riding accessible to more people.
If you're looking for a unique and stable riding experience that's comfortable and confident, trike motorcycles are worth considering.
Scrambler
Scramblers combine off-road capability with a vintage aesthetic. They usually feature high-mounted exhausts, knobby tires, and a rugged appearance, making them suitable for light off-road adventures.
They’re versatile adventurers and come with some cool benefits that make them stand out. First off, these bikes are like your go-anywhere buddies. They've got higher exhaust pipes, so you can wade through shallow water or rough terrain without worrying about damaging the bike. Plus, they often have knobby tires that give you a good grip on dirt paths, gravel, or even muddy surfaces.
The upright seating position gives you a commanding view of the road, and the comfortable seats make long rides enjoyable. They often come with minimalistic designs that keep things simple, making them easy to handle and maintain. So, if you're after a motorcycle that can handle various riding conditions while looking effortlessly cool, Scramblers are the way to go.
Electric
Electric motorcycles (also known as e-bikes) are powered by electric motors and batteries instead of internal combustion engines. They offer instant torque, are environmentally friendly, and are becoming increasingly popular as technology improves.
They're incredibly eco-friendly; you're not contributing to air pollution, and you're also saving money on fuel. Plus, they're much quieter than traditional motorcycles, so you'll have a smoother and more peaceful ride.
With that, they offer instant power. Electric bikes deliver torque instantly, as soon as you twist the throttle. This means you can accelerate quickly and smoothly, making city rides more nimble and highway merges a breeze. They also require less maintenance than traditional bikes, as they have fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes.
