Motorcycles are motorized vehicles steered by handlebars from a saddle-style seat. Unlike bicycles, they are not powered by pedals, but by engines that are mounted between the two steerable front wheels. Inventors began to experiment with engine-powered bikes in the 1800s, and by 1900 many people were building two-wheeled motorcycles. The first were steam-powered, but eventually they evolved to use gasoline engines.
These powerful machines have transmissions with four to six speeds, and power is transmitted from the engine to the rear wheel sprockets by a chain. Most have hydraulic disc brakes, and a clutch that allows the rider to shift gears without interrupting power. Some have a foot-operated pedal that provides supplementary braking. The motorcycle frame is usually made of tubing or sheet metal, but carbon fiber, fiberglass and other materials are used as well.
There are motorcycles designed to go off-road, with no compromises. These are called dirt bikes and are used for motocross racing (short laps with challenging, often manmade, obstacles), enduro races (longer laps over natural obstacles) and trials riding (get over or around obstacles). There are also some motorcycles designed to be street legal with knobbly tires, sophisticated suspension, and acceleration that can rival cars and trucks.
Riding a motorcycle is exciting and thrilling, but it’s also dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Before you start riding, be sure to understand the basics of operating a motorcycle and practice in an enclosed area. Always wear protective clothing, including a helmet and eye protection. Avoid using alcohol or drugs – both impair judgment, coordination, balance and throttle control.