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moped
A moped is a motorcycle with an engine size of 50cc or less,
regardless of its style. They are usually restricted to
a
maximum speed of 30mph.
| suits |
short journeys around town |
| pros |
cheap to buy, run, maintain and insure.
easy to ride - e.g. usually fully automatic |
| cons |
slow. can't keep up with fast moving traffic |
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see examples |
scooter
Larger engines than mopeds 80cc - 250cc. Highly styled and
trendy though models to suit all budgets. Gears are usually
automatic. Larger engine models can be frighteningly quick.
| suits |
short journeys with the odd longer ride.
for the more image conscious! |
| pros |
cool looking, easy to cheap to run, insure
and maintain |
| cons |
target for thieves |
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see examples |
commuter
The "workhorse" of bikes - most suitable for commuting
to and from work, good all-rounders but some can lack street
cred. Handle better than scooters so longer trips are more
feasible. Engines often no bigger than scooters'.
| suits |
longer journeys where speed and comfort
are important |
| pros |
a "proper" motorcycle with better
handling than most scooters |
| cons |
not very sexy |
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see examples |
street
You could think of these as beefed up commuters. Engines
usually from 500cc to 650cc, often un-faired and with a more
upright riding position. Taking pillions is feasible and
luggage
can be carried such as paniers or tank bags.
| suits |
longer journeys where speed and comfort
are important |
| pros |
better road presence, quicker, better handling |
| cons |
more expensive to run as you're getting
into "proper bike" territory |
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see examples |
dual purpose
Sometimes called to "trail" (not trial) bikes,
as they have the style of machines used in the off-road
events.
| suits |
people wanting something that can be ridden
on or off the road or something that looks a little different |
| pros |
riding position gives good visibility and
handling in town traffic |
| cons |
not the best road handling |
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see examples |
sports
Designed for speed and exciting handling. Look like race
bikes. Engines likely to be 600cc and up.
| suits |
those who want a fast bike that handles
well and pumps the adrenaline |
| pros |
fast and thrilling ride |
| cons |
insurance, servicing & running costs
will be high. points may start to accumulate on your licence! |
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see examples |
super / ultimate sports
Close to racing bikes
| suits |
those wanting the ultimate thrill, not
a practical commuter |
| pros |
fast, fast & fast |
| cons |
purchase, insurance, servicing, spares and
running costs are high |
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see examples |
sports tourer / cruiser
For longer distance riding, possibly with a pillion and luggage.
engine sizes generally in excess of 750cc.
| suits |
much longer trips - not really suited to
towns and traffic |
| pros |
comfortable for a long journey with protection
from the elements |
| cons |
large, heavy and cumbersome - not really
suited to Oxford Street |
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see examples |
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