Motorcycles History

For all people who love motorcycles !

The first motorcycle sold was a Hildebrand and Wolfmuller. This was in 1894 when many people rode bicycles...

Engines and Frames

Bicycle companies put a new invention, the internal combustion engine, onto their bicycles.

When new engines became more powerful the standard bicycle frames, wheels and chains could not handle them.

Bicycle builders decided to make frames made of steel.

The steel frames did the job much as they do today.

Most Popular Motobikes 

Before First World War, the largest motorcycle company in the world was Indian Motors. They produced 20,000 motorbikes a year.

By 1920, Harley-Davidson sold more street bikes in more than 67 countries.

Today, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha are the most popular with enthusiasts. Harley-Davidson is still a driving force in the United States.

BMW, KTM, Triumph, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Ducati are also popular new street rides to buy...

Parts
A steel or aluminum frame holds modern motorcycle parts and accessories.

Telescopic forks hold the front wheel, and disc brakes. Expect a one-cylinder to six-cylinder gasoline powered engine.

The engine is coupled to a manual, five- or six-speed sequential transmission with a swing arm-mounted rear wheel by a chain, drive shaft or belt.

A wind tunnel helps the engineers mimic real-life riding conditions. Different racing speeds test seating and body positions.

Experts can judge the best riding positions for racing bikes, off-road motorbikes and street cycles...

Accessories and Gear

Designed for comfort are various modern motorcycle attachments:

A "Fairing" is a plastic or fiberglass shell. It fits over the front frame of the bike. A fairing helps move the cycle smoothly and protects the engine in an accident. Fairings on touring rides improve your comfort and alertness on long rides. They reduce the harsh wind, cold and rain on your body...

"Windshields or windscreens" are built into a fairing or be attached to an unfaired motorbike. They are of transparent high-impact plastic. They direct airflow over or around your head. If you would like to raise and lower the windscreen with the push of a button, get an electric windscreen.

"Saddlebags or Panniers" rest on either side of the rear wheel to carry parts, tools, and, or travel gear.

"Heated Hand grips and Heated Seats" keep you warm in the cold and during night rides.

"Luggage Racks" remove the need for backpacks. They are a more secure and safe way to add carrying capacity to your rocket cycle...

A "Sidecar" is a one-wheeled partially covered seat. The sidecar attaches to the side of your motorcycle. Your big sister can sit in it and ride with you. Just remember to bring her back.

A "Trunk" is a storage box. Above and behind the seat the trunk is mounted...

Motorcycle Clubs
Clubs and organizations are popular. The clubs are organized according countries, states, cities and neighborhoods. Individual motor bike makes or motorbike models have fan clubs.

You can join, if you qualify, groups like the American Motorcyclist Association, Harley Owners Group, Moto Guzzi National Owners Club, and Gold Wing Road Riders...