Motorcycles

Motorcycles are a type of motor vehicle that uses two wheels to transport the rider. They can also be referred to as mopeds and scooters. Motorcycles are often used for sport, work, and travel. They are more affordable than cars and have better gas mileage. The speed, acceleration, and maneuverability of motorcycles make them popular for racing and stunt riding.

The first motorcycles were created in the 1860s. The French Michaux-Perreaux steam velocipede was built around the same time as the American Roper steam velocipede, invented by Sylvester H. Roper of Roxbury, Massachusetts. These early motorcycles were powered by steam propelled by a crank. They were popular attractions at fairs and circuses and were displayed in exhibition halls. Both of these machines were unstable and prone to accidents.

In 1885, Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach incorporated a new engine into their bicycle-styled motorcycle. It was powered by a four-stroke internal combustion engine that had been invented in 1876 by Nicolaus Otto. The result was the Reitwagen, which was unlike either of the safe bicycles or boneshaker bikes of that era. The Reitwagen had zero degrees of steering axis tilt and relied on a pair of outrigger wheels, similar to training wheels, to remain upright during turns.

Today, motorcycles are powered by gasoline or electric engines. They have between four and six speeds, and power is transmitted to the rear-wheel sprockets by a chain or belt. The throttle and clutch are controlled by twist-type controls on the handlebars, and the brakes are usually hydraulic disc or drum types. Many riders wear protective clothing and use a helmet to protect against injuries from crashes. Most multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes are caused by other drivers failing to see the motorcyclist, so it is important for riders to obey traffic signals and signs, drive defensively, keep their headlights on at all times, and signal their intention to change lanes or directions.