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Everyday we are feasting our eyes on different types of motorcycles * big, small, vintage, modern, classic and flashy.

Actually, there are three basic categories of street motorcycles * touring, cruisers and sports bikes. However, modern design can incorporate some of the qualities of the other category. Nonetheless, let us stick with the basics and discuss them one by one.

Touring motorcycles are so-named because of their equipments that are primarily designed to withstand long rides. Riders will feel comfortable even when on a protracted ride. Usually, touring bikes have hard-shell trunks on either side of the fender, windshields, full fairings, in-dash audio equipment (sometimes include GPS) and a dashboard. They also have high rounded back with armrest so that the riders will be at ease while riding. Examples of this category are Harley-Davidson's Road King and Honda's Gold Wing.

Cruisers and choppers on the other hand, are not that heavy as compared to touring bikes. They are sleek, beautiful, captivating and are closely related with the legendary cruisers and customized choppers. In addition, they are somewhat perceived as cool and trendy. Choppers use a frame with a front fork extended and raked beyond the standard stock cruiser. As we can observe choppers are hot once again. They are enjoying the ongoing paranoia and hype. In fact, there are featured customized cruisers and choppers that are gaining its media exposure and success.

If racing is your cup of tea, you will be highly delighted with sports bikes which are also called caf* racers. Sports bikes encourage a different sitting posture. The usual thing is that rider's feet must be put in front, in a sport bike, it puts the rider's feet underneath him. Thus, the rider's tendency is to lean forward over the gas tank with the shoulders and the head straight. This was specifically designed to make quick and accurate turns. Sport bikes are great for nerve-racking riding adventures. Nonetheless, they are not basically used for long and steady trails. Examples of this category are Honda's Interceptor, Yamaha's TMAX and Ducati's Supersport.

When it comes to off road motorcycles, they are primarily designed to be tough and sturdy. Example of this kind is dirt bikes which are designed to conquer rough, difficult and grimy treks. They usually designed with tall frames and high tailpipes so that they will not bottom out. These bikes do not have street gear or license plates. To compensate this, they are given yearly green stickers by the Department of Motor Vehicles for the owners and riders alike to ride in off-road parks.