Powered by an internal combustion engine, the motorcycle is at its most basic a two wheeled motor vehicle steered from a saddle-style seat. Sharing some of their engineering with the bicycles of the day, the earliest motorcycles were quite primitive, but quickly ramped up in both size and performance as engineers got their hands on them.
At the very least, the motorcycle is far less expensive than a car, both to purchase and in terms of fuel costs. They also take up significantly less parking space and are easier to maneuver in tight or cramped areas. There is some evidence that these factors have contributed to a rise in the number of people buying and riding motorcycles.
For many riders, there is a more significant non-practical reason to ride. Riding a motorcycle is an experience that is far more dynamic and involving than simply driving a car, with the rider’s body movements having a direct impact on steering, braking and acceleration. For experienced riders, this can be an incredibly exhilarating and satisfying experience that gives them a greater sense of self-validation and freedom.
The dashboard of a motorcycle can include a variety of indicators and warning lights to help keep the rider aware of the status of their machine. For example, if the bike’s tachometer (speedometer) needle moves into the red area, it is a sign that the engine is overheating. This is a serious issue and it should be dealt with immediately to avoid engine damage.