The first motorized bike was invented in 1867 and powered by steam. In 1894, the first mass-produced model was built. Since 1894, hundreds of millions of choppers, scooters, and off-road motorbikes have been produced and sold by motorcycle dealers throughout the world. In 2013, over 8,400,000 were registered in the United States. California, Florida, and Texas accounted for about a quarter of all registrations. They are very popular in dense cities and developing countries due to their low rates of fuel consumption and relatively inexpensive purchase price. Here are the eight main styles of bikes that you will find at motorcycle dealers.

Standard

Standard bikes are designed for basic street use. They generally do not have a windshield, and the driver sits in an upright position.

Cruisers

Cruisers are larger than most other motorbikes, and they offer a more reclined seating position. They have more torque, which allows beginner riders to not shift as much. Cruisers are popular with many motorcycle groups.

Dual-Sport

Dual-sport motorbikes are, as the name suggests, designed for both street and off-road use. Since they are driven off-road at times, a taller suspension is required, giving the rider a more upright seating position.

Sport

Sport bikes are designed for high levels of street performance. They are generally the fastest motorcycles on the road. They also offer the best braking and handling. As a result of the emphasis on performance, sport models generally offer lower fuel economy than their counterparts, and a less comfortable riding experience. Since they are designed with minimal air resistance in mind, riders sit leaning over the handlebars.

Touring

Touring models are built with the comfort of the rider in mind. They are used for longer distance trips, and often allow seating for a second rider. Most types have storage areas on the bike for luggage, and some even offer options such as radio and GPS navigation. Touring types can weigh well over 1,000 pounds when fully loaded.

Sport Touring

As the name suggests, sport touring bikes are a blend of the two models previously discussed. They are generally smaller and lighter than touring models, but larger and more comfortable than sport models. Due to their combination of comfort and sportiness, these models are one of the most popular.

Mopeds and Scooters

Scooters and mopeds are the lighter versions of the models discussed above. They have smaller engines, an upright seating position, and they often have an automatic transmission. As a result, they are very easy to drive. The small engine offers excellent gas mileage, as well. Worldwide, mopeds and scooters are the best-selling types of motorbike.

Off-Road

Off-road models are used exactly how the name suggests. They offer riders a more upright seating position and long suspension travel to deal with bumps and dips. The tires used are generally, specifically designed for their use on dirt, mud, and rocks.

In conclusion, motorcycle dealers offer potential riders a lot of options. If you are in the market for a new motorbike, use this list to help pick the model that is right for you.