Motorcycle Culture

Motorcycles are two-wheeled vehicles that use an engine for propulsion. Motorcycles can be powered by either a petrol or an electric motor. Electric motorcycles have zero emissions and can be recharged in a matter of minutes. Motorcycles are used by many people worldwide as a mode of transportation. In poor countries, motorcycles are commonly used as a cheaper alternative to cars. In richer nations, they are more often seen as a recreational vehicle or a mode of transportation for commuters. The world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles is Hero MotoCorp with its popular Splendor model selling over 8.5 million units as of April 2008.

Motorcycle riders often form tight-knit communities and share a love for the machines they ride. In some cases, these communities are associated with a specific lifestyle or subculture. For example, the British mods of the 1960s were associated with a culture that encouraged peace and unity among their members. However, in the 1970s and 1980s, the skinhead movement associated with motorcycle culture became known for violence and aggressiveness.

Riding a motorcycle involves a number of risks, including serious injury or death to the rider. The high speeds at which these vehicles can operate and the lack of protective body armor increase the severity of injuries sustained in crashes. Impairments such as alcohol, drugs and some prescription medications also decrease a rider’s reaction time, coordination and balance. These factors are common causes of accidents. Safe riding practices and cooperation between drivers and motorcyclists can help reduce the number of motorcycle-related fatalities on roads.