Types of Bikes in India Explained

Key Highlights:

• Get insight into the brief history of motorcycles.
• Major manufacturers in India, such as Hero Honda, Bajaj Auto, TVS, Royal Enfield, and Yamaha, have played a significant role in shaping the Indian motorcycle market
• Motorcycles come in different types of segments including commuter, cruiser, tourer, adventure, etc.

Bikes with their undeniable charm and allure of freedom, speed, and adventure have captivated many riders worldwide for decades. Whether looking at the early days of motorised bicycles or sleek, high-performance machines of today, the evolution of bikes have witnessed technological advancements, cultural shifts, and a deep-seated passion for the open road. In this article, we will be getting a comprehensive overview of the fascinating world of motorcycles, exploring their history, types, and the thrill they bring to riders of all kinds.

A Brief History of Bikes

The history of motorcycles is rich and diverse, tracing back to the late 19th century. The motorcycle's evolution began with the "safety bicycle," leading to the first successful motorised bicycle by Gottlieb Daimler in 1885. Subsequently, the Hildebrand & Wolfmüller in 1894 marked the first successful production two-wheeler, setting the stage for the modern motorcycle era.

During the First World War, motorcycles played a crucial role in military operations, replacing horses for communication and reconnaissance purposes. The post-war period saw significant advancements in motorcycle technology, with companies like Harley-Davidson and Triumph Motorcycles making notable contributions. Japanese dominance in the motorcycle market from the 1960s to the 1990s influenced Western markets and spurred innovation globally.

The motorcycle industry continued to evolve with the introduction of features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) by BMW in 1988, shaping the future of motorcycle safety. The history of motorcycles reflects a journey of innovation, performance, and cultural significance that continues to shape the world of two-wheeled vehicles today.

Bike Evolution in India

The history of motorcycles in India dates back to 1955 when the Government of India required robust motorcycles for the Indian Army and police force due to the rough terrain in the western part of the country. The growth of motorcycles in India was fueled by factors like the introduction of fuel-efficient 4-stroke engines, increased GDP, rising family incomes, easier access to finance, reduced taxes, and the adoption of international standards.

Major manufacturers in India, such as Hero, Honda, Bajaj Auto, TVS, Royal Enfield, and Yamaha, have played a significant role in shaping the Indian motorcycle market with popular models like the Hero Honda Splendor, Bajaj Pulsar, TVS Apache, Royal Enfield Bullet, and Yamaha Gladiator. The Indian motorcycle industry has evolved over the years, focusing on safety, comfort, user-friendliness, and ergonomics to cater to the diverse needs of consumers in the country.

Types of Motorcycles 

Motorcycles, with their blend of power, style, and versatility, have carved a unique niche in the world of transportation and leisure. From streets of urban centres to highways, motorcycles cater to a wide range of riders, each with their own preferences and riding styles. In this article, we delve into the diverse segments of motorcycle riding, from practical commuters to adventure oriented sportbikes, uncovering the unique characteristics and appeal of each category.

Commuter

A commuter motorcycle is an entry-level, basic motorcycle designed for day-to-day travel over short distances, typically ranging from 20 km to 50 km. These motorcycles are characterised by their simplicity, higher mileage, lower maintenance, and focus on fuel economy.

Commuter bikes often have engine capacities of less than 150cc for entry-level models and up to 200cc for premium versions, offering varying power and torque outputs. They are popular in developing countries like India due to their affordability and practicality for intra-city travel.

While commuter motorcycles excel in daily commuting and navigating stop-and-go traffic, they may lack features for long-distance rides, such as limited safety, inadequate suspension, lower ground clearance, and insufficient braking ability. The best commuter bikes in India include Hero Motocorp, Bajaj Auto, TVS from India, and Honda & Yamaha from Japan

Street

A street bike is a type of motorcycle designed specifically for riding on paved roads. These motorcycles are equipped with smooth tires suitable for paved surfaces and typically have engines ranging from 125cc and above. Street motorcycles are capable of speeds up to 100 mph (160 km/h) and often exceed speeds of 125 mph (201 km/h).

They are designed for urban commuting, touring, and general street riding, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and versatility for riders. Popular categories of street bikes include standard, cruiser, touring, sports, off-road, and dual-purpose bikes, each tailored to different riding styles and preferences

Streetfighters

A streetfighter motorcycle is a type of bike that is typically a custom sportbike or naked bike with an aggressive, stripped-down appearance. The key features of a streetfighter include- removal of the original fairings to expose the bike's frame and components, replacement of the stock headlight with a more minimalist unit, use of dirt-style or straight handlebars for a more upright riding position, addition of an aftermarket, often short and loud exhaust system, and emphasis on performance and handling over comfort and aerodynamics.

The streetfighter look originated in the 1980s when enthusiasts in Europe and Japan began customising Japanese sportbikes by removing fairings and adding other aggressive components. Over time, manufacturers like Ducati and Triumph started producing factory-built streetfighters like the Streetfighter and Speed Triple models.

While some argue that only custom-built bikes can be considered true streetfighters, the term is now used to describe both custom and factory-made bikes that share the stripped-down, aggressive aesthetic and focus on performance. Streetfighters are known for their raw, unapologetic style.

Naked

A naked bike, also known as a standard motorcycle, is a type of motorcycle characterised by its minimalist design and lack of fairings (plastic coverings) that typically enclose the engine and frame of a motorcycle.

The key features of a naked bike include- exposed engine and frame components, upright riding position with straight or slightly raised handlebars, mid-range engine displacement, often between 300cc to 1000cc, lighter weight and better manoeuvrability compared to fully-faired motorcycles, and affordable pricing and lower maintenance costs. Naked bikes offer a balance of comfort, performance, and practicality, making them suitable for various riding scenarios, from urban commuting to weekend getaways.

They maintain a level of performance and versatility. Popular examples of naked bikes include the Kawasaki Z900, Yamaha MT-07, Honda CB500F, and KTM 200 Duke. These bikes appeal to a wide range of riders, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts.

Café Racer

Café racers pay homage to the rebellious spirit of 1960s British motorcycle culture, with their sleek silhouettes and retro styling. Originally born out of the desire for speed and style, café racers feature minimalist designs, powerful engines, and distinctive aesthetics.

Key features of Café Racer Bike include clip-on handlebars, rear-set footrests, and lightweight modifications aimed at enhancing performance. While rooted in custom-built bikes, modern café racers combine vintage charm with modern engineering. Models like the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650, TVS Ronin and Husqvarna Vitpilen 250 capture the essence of café racer culture, appealing to riders who seek a timeless riding experience with a touch of flair.

Cruiser

Cruiser bikes are a type of motorcycle designed for relaxed and comfortable rides, ideal for long-distance cruising on highways. These bikes typically feature a laid-back riding position, comfortable saddle, and torquey engines that make them well-suited for covering long distances with less fatigue.

Cruiser bikes prioritize long-distance comfort over speed and performance, making them popular among riders who enjoy leisurely rides and extended journeys on paved roads. Popular cruiser bikes in India include models like the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Royal Enfield Hunter 350, Jawa 42 Bobber, and Hero Mavrick 440, among others.

Roadsters

A roadster motorcycle is a type of motorcycle that falls between a sport bike and a touring bike.The bike is designed primarily for everyday travel. Roadster motorcycles feature versatile components such as upright handlebars and wide tires, offering a light and fast ride suitable for leisure riding. They are characterised by their attractive design, reliable performance, and a sense of confidence they provide to riders.

Unlike cruisers, roadster motorcycles do not prioritize comfort but offer some versatility with their upright handlebars and wide tires, making them ideal for various terrains. These motorcycles are known for their durability, agility, and ability to provide riders with a clear view of the road ahead.

Examples of roadster motorcycles in India include the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, Yezdi Roadster, Harley-Davidson X440, Triumph Speed 400, and Honda CB300R. These roadster motorcycles offer a blend of style, performance, and versatility, catering to riders looking for a light and fast ride suitable for leisure riding and everyday travel.

Modern Classics 

A modern classic motorcycle is a type of motorcycle that combines the nostalgic styling of motorcycles from the 1960s and 1970s with modern features, conveniences, and safety technologies.

These motorcycles are designed to evoke a sense of retro appeal while offering riders the benefits of contemporary engineering and performance. Modern classic motorcycles are often styled to resemble iconic models from the past, providing riders with a blend of timeless aesthetics and modern functionality.

Popular modern classic motorcycles include models like the BMW R18, Yamaha XSR900, Triumph Speed Twin 900, Kawasaki Z650 RS, and Ducati Scrambler, among others. These bikes blend classic design elements with modern technology, catering to riders who appreciate the nostalgia of vintage motorcycles with the performance and safety features of contemporary models.

Sportbikes 

A sportbike is a performance-oriented motorcycle with an aggressive riding posture and sporty styling that typically includes a full fairing for improved aerodynamics. These motorcycles are designed for speed, agility, and sharp handling, making them well-suited for track riding and racing.

Sportbikes are known for their high-revving engines, lightweight construction, and advanced suspension systems, all geared towards delivering an exhilarating riding experience. Popular examples of sportbikes include the Yamaha MT 15 V2, Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, Yamaha R15 V4, and Bajaj Pulsar NS200, among others. Riders who enjoy high-speed performance and sharp cornering capabilities often opt for sportbikes due to their dynamic characteristics and adrenaline-inducing rides.

Naked Sportbikes

A Naked Sportbike, also known as a naked bike or streetfighter, is a type of motorcycle that combines the performance and handling characteristics of a sportbike with a more upright and comfortable riding position. These motorcycles are essentially sportbikes without the full fairings, giving them a stripped-down, exposed look.
Naked sportbikes typically feature higher handlebars instead of the aggressive clip-on handlebars found on traditional sportbikes, making them more comfortable for everyday riding and city commuting.

Popular Naked Sportbikes include the Yamaha MT-09, Suzuki GSX-S1000, Kawasaki Z900, Triumph Street Triple, and BMW S 1000 R. These motorcycles offer a blend of sporty performance, comfort, and style, appealing to riders who seek a thrilling riding experience with a more relaxed and accessible riding position.

Supersport

Supersport bikes are a category of motorcycles designed for high-performance sport riding on paved surfaces. These motorcycles are known for their agility, speed, and sporty handling characteristics, making them popular among enthusiasts and riders seeking an exhilarating riding experience.

Supersport bikes typically feature powerful engines, advanced suspension systems, aerodynamic fairings, and aggressive riding positions to optimise performance on the road or track. Examples of supersport bikes include the Ducati SuperSport 950, Yamaha R1, and KTM RC series. Riders looking for a thrilling and dynamic riding experience often choose supersport bikes for their combination of speed, agility, and sporty design.

Supersport bikes typically have large-displacement engines, often 1000cc or more, that produce high horsepower and torque for exceptional acceleration and top speed

Superbikes

Superbike racing is a category of motorcycle racing that involves highly modified production motorcycles, as opposed to MotoGP where purpose-built motorcycles are used. The Superbike World Championship (SBK) is the premier international superbike championship founded in 1988 and regulated by the FIM.

Superbike racing motorcycles are derived from standard production models, requiring manufacturers to homologate the model and produce a certain number of roadgoing machines. These motorcycles must maintain the same profile as their roadgoing counterparts, with restrictions on frame modifications.

Superbike racing motorcycles typically have four-stroke engines ranging from 850cc to 1200cc for twins and 750cc to 1000cc for four-cylinder machines. The Superbike World Championship has seen notable riders like Jonathan Rea and manufacturers like Ducati and Honda achieving significant success in the series.

The most popular superbike brands in India include Kawasaki, Suzuki, BMW, Ducati, and Honda. These brands offer a wide range of high-performance motorcycles that cater to enthusiasts and riders looking for speed, agility, and cutting-edge technology in their superbike choices.

Adventure 

Adventure bikes, also known as adventure tourer bikes, are motorcycles designed for comfortable touring and equipped with features conducive to off-road riding. These bikes are versatile, offering a suspension setup suitable for both on-road and off-road conditions.

Adventure bikes are popular among riders who enjoy long-distance touring, exploring diverse terrains, and seeking a balance between comfort and performance. Some popular adventure bikes in India include the Royal Enfield Himalayan, Hero Xpulse 200 4V, BMW G 310 GS, Honda CB200X, and Suzuki V-Strom SX, among others.

Sport Tourer

Sport tourer bikes are a category of motorcycles designed for a blend of sporty performance and long-distance touring capabilities. These motorcycles offer riders the agility and handling of sportbikes combined with the comfort and practicality needed for extended rides.

Some popular sport tourer bikes in India include the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE, BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, Harley Davidson Pan America 1250, Zontes 350X, and Ducati Multistrada V2. These bikes are equipped with features like adjustable windscreens, comfortable seating, ample storage, and powerful engines, making them versatile machines suitable for both spirited rides and comfortable touring experiences.

Baggers

Baggers are a type of cruiser motorcycle characterized by the presence of hard saddlebags (or "bags") mounted on the sides of the rear fender. They are popular in the United States and are often associated with brands like Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle. Baggers prioritize style, comfort, and storage capacity over outright performance.

Some features of baggers include- large displacement V-twin engines for smooth power delivery, relaxed riding position with forward-set footpegs, integrated hard saddlebags for ample storage, windshields for wind protection, and Customization options to personalize the bike's appearance.

Some popular bagger motorcycle models in India include- Indian Roadmaster and Indian Springfield. These models are known for their luxurious features, comfortable rides, and ample storage capacity, making them ideal choices for riders looking for premium bagger-style motorcycles in India.

Touring 

Touring bikes are designed specifically for long-distance travel and comfort. They typically feature large fairings, windshields, and integrated luggage systems to provide excellent weather protection and storage capacity. Touring bikes are known for their smooth, powerful engines and comfortable riding positions.

Key features of touring bikes include- large displacement engines with ample low-end torque, upright riding position with adjustable windscreens, integrated hard saddlebags and top cases for storage, comfortable seats and ergonomic controls, and amenities like stereos, GPS navigation, and heated grips. Touring bikes are suitable for long-distance riding, and tend to prioritise comfort, weather protection, and storage capacity over style.

In India, the list of popular touring bikes include Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, Hero XPulse 200 4V, BMW G 310 GS, and Suzuki V-Strom SX. T.

Popular Bike Segment in India

The popular bike segments in India include:

Commuter Bikes: Commuter bikes are designed for daily transportation needs, offering fuel efficiency and reliability. Popular models in this segment include the Hero Splendor Plus, Honda SP 125, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and Pulsar 150.

Sports Tourer Bikes: Sports tourer bikes combine sporty performance with long-distance touring capabilities. Top sports tourer bikes in India include the V-Strom 800 DE, R 1250 GS Adventure, Pan America 1250, and Zontes 350X.

Cruiser Bikes: Cruiser bikes are known for their relaxed riding position and torquey engines, ideal for long-distance cruising. Popular cruiser bikes in India include the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Royal Enfield Hunter 350, and Jawa 42 Bobber.

These segments cater to different riding preferences and needs, offering a variety of options for riders in India looking for specific features and riding experiences.

Most Common Bike Segment in India

The most common motorcycle segment in India is the daily commuter segment, dominated by brands like Hero MotoCorp. This segment includes popular and most affordable bikes like Hero Splendor, TVS Apache series and the Royal Enfield Classic 350. These commuter bikes cater to the everyday transportation needs of a large portion of the Indian population, making them the most common and widely used motorcycles in the country.

Type of Commuter Bike Segment

Entry-Level Commuter Bikes (Below 125cc)

These bikes typically have engine capacities below 125cc and are designed for basic commuting needs. Examples include the Hero Splendor Plus, Honda CD 110 Dream, and Bajaj CT 110.

Mid-Range Commuter Bikes (125cc - 150cc)

This segment includes bikes with engine capacities ranging from 125cc to 150cc, offering a balance of power and fuel efficiency. Popular models in this category are the Honda Shine, Bajaj Pulsar 125, and Hero Glamour.

Premium Commuter Bikes (Above 150cc)

Premium commuter bikes have engine capacities above 150cc, providing higher power and torque for a more spirited ride. Examples include the Honda Unicorn, Hero Super Splendor, and Honda SP 160.

By categorizing commuter bikes into these segments based on engine capacity, riders can choose a bike that best suits their commuting needs, budget, and performance preferences.

CarBike360 Says

In the diverse world of motorcycle riding, there's a bike for every rider and every occasion. From commuters to streetfighters, each segment offers a unique riding experience as per their different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you're drawn to the raw power of a naked bike or the timeless charm of a café racer, motorcycles have always captivated riders with their endless allure.

Also Read: Bike Buying Guide: How to choose a bike between 125-500 cc ?