Motorcycles can be difficult to comprehend, but they are arguably the most exciting and fun of all vehicles. Motorcycles are known for their speed, power, and maneuverability, but some factors affect these capabilities. That’s why plenty of minds wonder what determines the speed of a motorcycle. Is that the CC? the power of the engine, or what?
A lot of things determine motorcycle speed. The engine size determines the maximum possible speed, while tires can impact acceleration and top speed. Of course, you need a motorcycle capable of reaching higher momentum in the first place.
So, the speed of a motorcycle is determined by three main factors: engine performance, rider skill, and the terrain you are riding on. Here’s an overview of these factors.
Engine Performance
The engine size directly impacts the maximum speed of a motorcycle you can travel. A bigger engine will generate more power and faster acceleration to get you up to speed quicker.
However, this doesn’t mean that larger engines always make motorcycles go faster. For example, an 800cc bike will have less power than a 1000cc bike but may be able to reach higher speeds on roads with fewer curves or straightaways due to its lighter weight and elegant frame.
Similarly, a Honda CBR600RR with a smaller engine can still reach high speeds compared to motorcycles with larger engines. Be aware of certain things that can damage a motorcycle engine. Some new motorcyclists are not mindful of the proper way to care for their motorcycle engine, leading to later low-performance efficiency.
However, some popular motorcycle manufacturers have been known to design engines to make more power rather than fuel economy (e.g., Harley Davidson). As a result, the motorcycle engine rips through the air quickly but uses more fuel.
Overall, engine performance is one of the main factors affecting motorcycle speed.
Rider Skills
How you ride your motorcycle impacts both how quickly you can get up to speed and how fast you can travel.
For example, powerful braking techniques, quick gear changes, and expert use of the handlebars can result in higher speeds on open roads. Riders must be prepared for emergencies such as being pulled off the motorcycle or caught between two vehicles.
If you’re unsure how to ride your motorcycle safely or effectively, it may be helpful to consult a professional instructor. This training can help you better understand your machine’s workings and improve your riding skills. You can also consider online motorcycle safety courses, which will teach you all the required riding skills.
The skills that riders need to operate motorcycles safely impact the speed at which they can travel. Maintaining balance and controlling the bike at high speeds requires a lot of skill, and as a result, riders tend to achieve slower motorcycle speeds than drivers in other types of vehicles. However, these same skills help Riders avoid accidents and get where they’re going as quickly as possible.
Skilled riders also know when to modulate their throttle response according to prevailing conditions (i.e., stop/start traffic). Doing so can help conserve fuel and extend the life of a motorcycle’s engine.
Overall, riding at a safe speed and using proper gear (i.e., good brakes, clutch control) are essential skills for anyone wishing to travel as quickly as possible on a motorcycle.
The terrain you are riding on
The terrain you are riding on also impacts motorcycle speed.
Factors that can affect motorcycle speed include the surface texture, slope of the landscape, weather conditions (e.g., rain or snow), and rider fitness levels. For example, long, steep hills will slow down a motorcycle faster than flat ground.
Some general tips to help you ride faster on rough terrain include the following:
- Stay in control: Don’t overreach or lean too far forward or backward, and don’t put your hands out of view (e.g., braking with your feet instead of hitting the brake pedal with your whole foot). This will help keep you balanced and minimize risks as you ride.
- Use techniques: learn and use skills like leaning into turns to gain bike speed and extend cornering time; flick your wrists for more accurate steering at high rates; use downhill momentum when possible to build up speed quickly before entering a hill.
- Slow down and ride cautiously around corners if the surface is wet or snow-covered, as these conditions make it harder to control the bike. -Always wear a helmet and appropriate clothing to protect you from harm.
Bikes are slower to accelerate and decelerate than a car. Similarly, tight turns requiring sharp and advanced braking can cause a motorcycle to slow down more quickly than an open road trip.
Riders must be prepared for these conditions and adjust their speed accordingly.
Also Read: Dangers of Riding a Motorcycle
Other Factors That Affects The Top Speed of a Motorcycle
Besides the fundamental components of a motorcycle’s nature, other valuable factors affect the top speed of a motorbike. If you understand these factors and apply the knowledge while you ride, you can extract better performance from your motorcycle.
Other factors that affect the speed of a motorcycle:
- Performance, type, and how much the motorbike weighs.
- Year of manufacture and condition.
- Transmission features and drivetrain.
- The tolerance and size of the wheels.
- Any modification and after purchase and speed limiters.
- Rider’s weight, size, and passengers.
- Weather conditions.
Motorcycle companies place a lot of emphasis on different factors that enable the rider to reach high speeds. In fact, Motorcycles are explicitly manufactured for racing and traveling at high speeds.
Speed is perhaps one of the most exciting features of a motorcycle. From high rates like 160 km/hr on a highway to low speeds like 30 km/hr while maneuvering through traffic and city streets.
Safe Speed to Ride For Motorcycles
Motorcycle lane use can be a contentious issue. Some feel that motorcycles should travel at the slowest speed possible to protect their safety and property. In contrast, others believe that riders should maintain a safe speed for themselves and other motorcyclists on the road.
The truth is that motorcycle operators have different speeds suited for various conditions. Some riders prefer to travel slowly to understand their needs, while others may choose to cruise at high speeds when they know few vehicles are on the road. Ultimately, it is up to each rider to decide what speed is safest for them and their motorcycle.
When traveling in a posted motorcycle lane, it is crucial to stay as close to the far curb as possible. This way, you can go out of the way of other vehicles and maximize your visibility on the road. It is also helpful to ride with your head up and eyes scanning 360 degrees around you in case of any hazards ahead or behind you.
While highway speeds are generally safe for motorcycles, some riders feel they can travel slightly faster when conditions allow. Conditions such as heavy traffic or tight turns may require slower speeds, but many riders feel that speed is not as important when traveling on local roads.
However, you can enjoy your ride without worrying if you are aware of your surroundings and adhere to the safe speeds for motorcycles discussed above.
Can You Increase Motorcycle Speed Without Making Any Modifications?
If you want to increase your motorcycle speed, the only guaranteed solution is internal changes and modifications. However, some crucial tips that may help increase the speed of your motorcycle include:
1. Changing your riding style – If you tend to ride at a slower pace or stay in a particular area for extended periods, try something new! Cruising around town or hitting open roadways can be helpful. It will help break up the monotony associated with riding. As a result, you will get more opportunities to experience the full potential of your motorcycle.
2. Purchasing a faster bike – If you’re not satisfied with the speed of your motorcycle, upgrading to a quicker model can be an effective solution. It may involve purchasing or modifying components such as the engine, transmission, and braking system.
3. Riding in open spaces – The open expanses of the countryside can allow you to reach higher speeds while riding on your motorcycle than would be possible in densely populated areas. By taking advantage of this opportunity, you’ll achieve increased ground coverage and fuel efficiency, resulting in a faster ride.
4. Experiencing different riding conditions – Riding in poor weather or on unpaved roads can also increase the speed of your motorcycle. By adapting your riding style and using proper equipment, you can maximize the performance of your bike in these challenging conditions.
5. Using a GPS navigation system – By using a GPS navigation system, you can ensure that you are always traveling at the optimum speed possible. This technology can help optimize your riding habits and improve fuel efficiency while on your motorcycle.
Conclusion: Should You Rely on Motorcycle manufacturer’s Words?
In conclusion, relying on motorcycle manufacturers’ words regarding safety is not bad. However, you should pay attention to high-quality parts when buying a motorcycle because they significantly impact your motorcycle’s overall performance and safety.
It would help if you never made a purchasing decision depending on the factors that determine the speed of motorcycles. Instead, stay focused on your requirements for a vehicle. You may even consider buying a car because they are more reliable and offer storage.
Experts say you should consider your choices and requirements when choosing motorcycles as your first vehicle in 2022.
Many people purchase motorcycles because of the amusement they get. But it’s an emotional decision after all.
FAQs on the Factors That Determine Motorcycle Speed
Does bike speed depend on CC?
No rigorous science supports the claim that motorcycle speed depends on the CC (cubic centimeter). However, it's generally believed that motorcycles with smaller engines (which don't require a catalytic converter) typically travel faster than those with larger engines.
Are higher CC bikes faster?
Higher CC bikes may be faster depending on the type of engine available. For example, an air-cooled single cylinder engine with a high CC will likely be faster than a twin cam or V8 unit. However, most riders agree that top speed depends more on wind and road conditions than motorcycle performance.
What decides the top speed of a bike?
Theoretically, many factors could influence the top speed of a motorcycle. These include engine size, weight, gearing, exhaust system configuration, and air temperature.