Definition of

Motorcycle

Motorcycle parked on the road

The motorcycle is a motorized vehicle for one or two people.

A motorcycle is a two-wheeled vehicle , designed to transport one or two people. The term comes from the French word motocyclette . It is a car since it is a means of transportation that can move on its own without having to resort to roads or lanes.

Operation

The mobility of the motorcycle, which is colloquially called a motorcycle , is given by an engine . Engine characteristics depend on the motorcycle model: most engines run on fuel, although there are also electrically powered engines.

It can be said that a motorcycle is similar to a bicycle . The main difference is given by the presence of the motor in the first, while the bicycle moves by the force exerted by the person when pedaling.

Precautionary measures

Due to its characteristics, the motorcycle is a vehicle whose use is usually considered quite dangerous because, in the absence of a bodywork, any collision generates an impact for the driver and passenger or even their fall. The use of a helmet to protect the head, in this framework, is essential for safety or may even be mandatory depending on the regulations in force in each region.

Sidecar

The sidecar is a type of one- wheeled vehicle that attaches to the side of the motorcycle and has a seat or a passenger compartment. Although three or even more individuals often get on the motorcycle, this practice is risky. For these cases there is the sidecar.

The sidecar can have different shapes and sizes, and can be closed or open, depending on the design and purpose. Additionally, laws and regulations regarding this product may vary in different countries and jurisdictions. It connects to the motorcycle via a sturdy bracket . Note that some models can accommodate two people and even carry cargo items in an additional compartment.

Some of the common sidecar uses include:

  • Passenger Carry – They provide an additional passenger seating option, making them useful for couple trips or for families who want to travel together;
  • Delivery and logistics : It has also been used for commercial activities, such as the delivery of products or the transportation of cargo. Its design allows you to carry goods safely and conveniently;
  • sport and competition – in motorcycle racing competitions, such as sidecarcross and sidecar racing , where a driver and passenger work together to maneuver and compete on circuits.

scooter

A scooter or scooter , on the other hand, is a type of small to medium-sized motorcycle that is characterized by its compact, comfortable and easy-to-handle design . It features an open frame on which the driver sits.

Scooters usually have a lightweight chassis and a body that covers the engine and mechanical parts. The driving position is upright, with the feet placed on a flat platform. Their wheels are usually small compared to those of conventional motorcycles; This provides them with better maneuverability and agility in urban traffic.

Scooter next to sky wall

The scooter is a popular and safer alternative to the traditional motorcycle.

They are generally equipped with small displacement engines, from 50 cc to 250 cc . However, there are also models that exceed these specifications. Some scooters are powered by internal combustion engines, while others use electric motors . They typically have storage space under the seat, making them handy for carrying small items or carrying a helmet when not riding.

Most scooters use a CVT ( continuously variable transmission ) type automatic transmission , which means there is no need to manually change gears. This makes them easy to handle, especially for beginners.