Motorcycles, also known as motorbikes or bikes (though the latter is a generic term encompassing scooters, mopeds and cruisers too) are a popular means of transport, used by over 200 million people daily. They provide a sense of freedom and adventure that is difficult to match, combined with an economy in running costs that makes them much cheaper than cars. They take up a fraction of the space and can accelerate incredibly quickly.
As the world shifted from a post-war, industrialised era into a more consumerist one in the late 1940s, motorcycle production took off. War-time engineering and manufacturing techniques were applied to bikes, which at first were quite simple: essentially, small internal combustion engines replacing the pedals of a bicycle.
There are a multitude of types and designs of motorcycles, aimed at different purposes and riding styles. There are long-distance travel, commuting or city bikes, touring and cruising motorcycles, racing and off-road motorbikes, and even a few bikes that can carry a passenger.
The main reason to ride a motorcycle is the sheer fun of it. It feels like an extension of your body, you are part of the machine and your movements affect how it moves: leaning into curves alters how the bike responds, and changing gears and braking are all done with your legs. It can feel euphoric and exhilarating, especially at high speeds when you can fly through the air with ease. It is important to remember that this can be dangerous if you don’t take care and stay vigilant.