There’s nothing quite like the feeling of freedom that comes with riding motorcycles. Two wheels, open air, and the hum of the engine under you. But with so many different types of motorcycles out there, choosing the right one for your riding style can be tricky. From cruiser motorcycles to sport bikes, each comes with its own unique set of pros and cons.
Whether you’re a new rider looking for your first motorcycle or an experienced rider chasing your next adventure, understanding motorcycle types helps you find the best motorcycle for your lifestyle.
Cruiser Motorcycles

Cruiser bikes are built for comfort and style. Think classic Harley Davidson and chopper style motorcycles with their relaxed riding position and laid back power delivery. They’re perfect for easy highway cruising and short city rides.
Pros
Cruiser motorcycles offer a relaxed riding position with feet-forward ergonomics that make long rides comfortable. They have low seat heights, making them accessible for many riders. Their torquey engines deliver plenty of power at low revs, ideal for relaxed cruising on paved roads.
Cons
While cruisers look great and ride smoothly, they can be heavy. That extra weight makes them harder to handle at low speeds or in tight spaces. They’re not built for off road riding or aggressive cornering either.
Sport Bikes

Sport bikes, or sports bikes, are designed for speed, agility, and precision. They have a more aggressive riding position and advanced braking systems, making them the weapon of choice for riders who crave performance.
Pros
Sport bikes deliver thrilling acceleration, sharp handling, and excellent braking. They’re lightweight and built for high performance, perfect for twisty roads or track days. For riders seeking excitement and precision, a sport bike is hard to beat.
Cons
That same performance focus can make them less comfortable for long distance riding. The forward-leaning position puts pressure on your wrists and back. They also tend to have smaller fuel tanks and higher insurance costs than standard motorcycles.
Touring Motorcycles

Touring motorcycles, also called touring bikes or touring motorbikes, are made for long distance trips. They come loaded with comfort features like heated grips, cruise control, and generous luggage space.
Pros
Touring bikes offer excellent wind protection, plush seating, and smooth engines designed for long distance touring. They’re perfect for riders who spend hours or even days on the road.
Cons
They’re large and heavy, which can make them intimidating for new riders. Their high price and maintenance costs may also be an important consideration. Touring motorcycles are made for open highways, not city commuting or off road tracks.
Adventure Bikes

Adventure motorcycles, or ADV bikes, combine the comfort of road bikes with the rugged ability of off road bikes. They have high ground clearance, strong suspension, and can handle both paved roads and dirt tracks.
Pros
Adventure bikes are versatile, making them great for riders who want to ride off road but still enjoy long distance rides. Dual sport motorcycles, a close cousin, are street legal but lighter and better suited for rougher terrain.
Cons
Adventure bikes are often tall, which can make them tricky for shorter riders. They can also be expensive, and their size might be too much for new riders just learning to handle a motorcycle.
Naked Bikes and Standard Motorcycles

Naked bikes, also known as standard motorcycles, strike a balance between sport and comfort. They feature an upright seating position, moderate power, and minimal fairings.
Pros
They’re easy to handle, fun to ride, and great for city commuting. Many riders choose a naked bike as their first motorcycle because it’s practical and affordable.
Cons
Without much wind protection, long distance rides can become tiring. Some naked bikes have smaller gas tanks, meaning more frequent stops for fuel.
Dirt Bikes and Dual Sports

Dirt bikes and motocross bikes are built for pure off road fun. They’re lightweight, powerful, and made to tackle dirt tracks and trails. Dual sport bikes bridge the gap by being street legal versions of dirt bikes.
Pros
Dirt bikes are perfect for off road riding and improving your control and balance skills. Dual sport bikes add versatility, allowing you to ride both on and off the road without switching machines.
Cons
Dirt bikes aren’t designed for comfort or highway travel. They have small gas tanks, minimal seats, and little wind protection. Even dual sport motorcycles can be tiring for long rides on sealed roads.
Electric Motorcycles

Electric motorcycles and electric bikes are quickly becoming popular as electric vehicles evolve. They offer instant torque, quiet operation, and low running costs.
Pros
Electric motorcycles are clean, smooth, and require very little maintenance. With instant power delivery and automatic transmission, they’re easy to ride and perfect for city commuting.
Cons
Most electric motorcycles have limited range compared to petrol-powered bikes. Charging infrastructure is improving, but long distance rides still require planning. They can also be more expensive upfront than traditional motorcycles.
Choosing the Right Type for You
When deciding between the different types of motorcycles, think about how and where you plan to ride. Are you chasing long distance comfort, weekend off road fun, or quick city commutes? Your riding style and experience level should guide your choice.
Each motorcycle type has its own personality, and the best motorcycle for you is one that matches your lifestyle, comfort, and budget.
Find Your Perfect Bike at Procycles
At Procycles, your trusted bike dealership in Sydney, we stock a wide range of motorcycle types, from cruiser bikes and sport tourers to dual sports and adventure bikes. Whether you’re after a new motorcycle or a used bike, our team can help you find a model that fits your needs, riding experience, and style.
Our experts know every motorcycle manufacturer inside out and can help match you with the right riding position, features, and accessories. Visit Procycles in Sydney today to explore our range of motorcycles and gear, and ride away with confidence knowing you’ve made the right choice.