With over 13 million motorcycle riders in America, the collective curiosity about what these bikes can do has grown. If you’re thinking about getting a motorcycle, you might be wondering what kind of performance to expect. And especially if speed is your goal, you’ll need to be selective about the type of bike you get.
How fast can a motorcycle go? Read on to find out!
Evaluate the Engine Size
One of the biggest factors in determining motorcycle speed is the engine. Not all motorcycles are the same when it comes to an engine’s design. Some bikes are classified as mopeds, while others are scooters or motorcycles. And each bike’s engine size and capacity are measured in cubic centimeters (cc).
What impacts a bike’s classification is the type of engine and its size. For instance, a smaller moped may have a 50cc engine at the largest. With this size of an engine, a moped may only travel at a maximum speed of 30 mph.
By contrast, a 125cc bike can hit a top speed of 100 mph. A motorcycle, which may have a 250cc engine, can go even faster. Some motorcycles above the 1000cc mark can hit speeds of over 150 mph.
Ultimately, maintaining an engine is critical to ensure that it can reach its potential. If you own a motorcycle, keep your engine running at top capacity. Invest in motorcycle air filters to generate better filtration and engine power.
Consider the Cylinders
As with cars, motorcycles can gain more speed with more cylinders. Cylinders refer to the component of the bike where fuel is converted to energy.
Motorcycles are available as single-cylinder bikes. But it’s also possible to get multi-cylinder bikes. These bikes with additional cylinders mounted to the frame are capable of achieving higher speeds of over 100 mph.
Bikes with more cylinders also tend to be a smoother ride. This is because the presence of multiple pistons yields more stability, which makes steering easier, too.
On the downside, multi-cylinder bikes will consume fuel at a faster rate. As a result, they can be more expensive to operate. But if riding a faster motorcycle is your goal, heftier four-cylinder bikes will help you achieve it.
Look at the Motorcycle’s Weight
Weight is another factor that affects motorcycle speed. Lighter sports bikes, for instance, can achieve faster speeds. They are made from lighter materials, like aluminum, and offer agile steering.
Likewise, a scooter tends to be a lighter-weight bike option. The same is true of mopeds. But given that scooters and mopeds have smaller engines, they won’t be able to reach high speeds.
On the other hand, off-roading bikes are lightweight bikes that can offer zippier acceleration. These bikes may hit 60 mph as they cut through rugged terrain. So, it’s critical to look at weight in conjunction with other factors, like engine size.
Cruisers, which are built for long-distance trips or Sunday afternoon rides, are heavier bikes. And even with more potent engines, they won’t have the sleek design or lightness to accelerate.
Don’t Overlook the Tires
To reach a bike’s top speed, a motorcycle can take advantage of better tires. The fastest tires tend to be smoother and with a stronger point. They also tend to be spendier, so plan on budgeting accordingly.
But sometimes speed isn’t the primary goal with a new set of tires. For instance, touring or cruiser bikes aren’t designed with high rates of speed in mind. And the tires are designed accordingly.
Touring tires often have lots of treads. While this can provide better traction, it also can slow down a bike. Touring tires may have a longer lifespan, however.
Faster tires have a lower profile. And given that they are used with the intent of maneuvering courses quickly, they may only last a few thousand miles.
The tire’s composition makes a difference when it comes to speed, too. The fastest tires may be softer on the edges and harder in the middle. This can create a more nimble handling experience and a faster ride.
Factor in the Design
Finally, look at the overall design of the motorcycle. The fastest bike will have a sleek, aerodynamic design. A better design enables a bike to avoid a sluggish ride due to the wind.
Well-designed bikes permit the most efficient airflow. Further, an aerodynamic bike can help the bike’s tires stay in better shape longer. And it can increase fuel efficiency.
Bikes with teardrop designs are among some of the fastest. The body of the bike tapers toward the backside, letting wind trail easily around the bike. The sportier a bike looks, the more likely it is to be able to achieve higher speeds.
Further, the seat may be positioned a bit higher in a faster bike. This gives the driver the best view to attack a course and travel at high rates of speed. In a similar fashion, the handlebars may lean forward to help maintain a sleek design.
Bikes like mopeds and scooters lack design elements that account for the wind. They tend to have a bulkier frame designed for comfort, and many larger touring bikes weigh more.
How Fast Can a Motorcycle Go?
Are you still wondering, “How fast can a motorcycle go?” The answer to this question hinges on several factors, including engine size and the type of bike. Additionally, a motorcycle’s weight and overall design can impact its highest rate of speed.
