Anatomy of a Motorcycle
Maybe you are new to motorcycles, or maybe you just need to brush up on the basics. Either way, this guide is for you! Motorcycles come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from sleek sportbikes to beefy cruisers, but they all share the same basic anatomy. If you want to operate and maintain your motorcycle to the best of your ability, you should be at least broadly familiar with each individual component. Read on for a quick anatomy lesson from East Bay Motorsports!
Are you in the market for a motorcycle? Come check out our selection here at East Bay Motorsports. You can find plenty of makes and models in stock at our dealership in Hayward, CA.
Engine
Electric motorcycles are on the rise, but most bikes today still feature two-stroke or four-stroke internal combustion engines. Gas engines are classified by their displacement, which is measured in cubic centimeters (cc). Displacement refers to the total volume of air swept by the pistons in the engine’s cylinders. Engines with higher displacements are larger and more powerful, while smaller engines are lighter and more fuel-efficient.
Motorcycle engines not only come in different sizes, they also come in a variety of shapes. Some examples include single-cylinder, V-twin, and inline engines. Both the size and shape of the engine affect the overall handling of the motorcycle. In some motorcycles, the engine is integrated into the chassis, and provides structural support to the whole frame.
Chassis
The chassis of a motorcycle includes the frame, the front fork, and the suspension. These components provide the motorcycle with its basic structure. The frame is an aluminum or steel skeleton that forms the central element of the chassis, while the front fork connects the handlebars and the front axle. Motorcycles can have front or rear suspension. Either way, the suspension works to cushion the base of the motorcycle from impact. This is accomplished by a hydraulic shock absorber, or by a swingarm that connects to the rear axle.
All but the most stripped-down motorcycles feature body panels that fully or partially cover the chassis. The body panels prevent the chassis from becoming dirty or damaged to some extent, and give the motorcycle its unique appearance.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain on a motorcycle is not a single component, but a series of parts that deliver power from the engine to the rear wheel. This includes the primary drive, the transmission, and the final drive. The primary drive consists of the clutch assembly, the roller chain or belt, and the engine output sprocket. The final drive can be a chain, belt, or shaft.
The transmission is the only one of these components the rider interacts with directly, and the vast majority of motorcycles feature manual transmission. The transmission controls the rate at which power is transmitted from the engine, and it must be adjusted to the appropriate gear for your speed and the road conditions.
Wheels and Tires
The wheels on a motorcycle are the final destination for all that horsepower that flows through the drivetrain. The front and rear brakes are integrated into the wheels, and these are controlled by levers on the handlebars. Motorcycle tires come with different ratings depending on their intended use, with off-road tires being their own special class.
Exhaust
Most exhaust pipes are built from steel, then given a chrome or ceramic coating. They can also be made with stainless steel or other alloys. Motorcycles with larger engines are sometimes equipped with dual exhaust pipes to increase power output.
Lights
The lights on your motorcycle illuminate your surroundings, increase your visibility, and help you communicate with other motorists. The headlight is the most prominent lighting feature, but not necessarily the most important. Turn signals and rear lights are also critical. You can upgrade your motorcycle lights with brighter LED bulbs to further boost visibility.
Controls
The controls are the components you handle directly when operating your motorcycle. These include the ignition switch, the handlebars, the brake levers, the throttle grip, the hand clutch, and the instrument display. Most motorcycles now feature LED digital displays with a speedometer, odometer, fuel level indicator, and tachometer.
That covers all the basics of motorcycle anatomy! Looking for more expert advice? Feel free to consult the certified technicians here at East Bay Motorsports. Our award-winning service department can handle all your motorcycle repair needs. We proudly serve customers from all over the Bay Area at our dealership in Hayward, CA.