motorbike
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈəʊtəbˌaɪk/
US
- /ˈmoʊtərˌbaɪk/
Description
- two-wheeled engine-powered vehicle
- motorcycle
- two-wheeler
- engine-powered bike
A motorbike, also known as a motorcycle or simply a bike, is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an engine or motor. Unlike a bicycle, it does not need pedaling to move, and it can travel faster and farther. It comes in many styles, from fast racing bikes and rugged off-road machines to practical models made for daily travel. You can picture the sound of the engine and the wind in your face as it moves down an open road.
People use motorbikes for much more than speed. They are common for daily transportation, weekend rides, and long road trips, and many people connect them with a feeling of freedom. You might see delivery drivers moving through busy city traffic or riders traveling together on a long journey. In British English, "motorbike" is a very common everyday word, while in American English, "motorcycle" is more common, though both words mean the same thing.
A motorbike, or motorcycle, is a two-wheeled motor vehicle characterized by an internal combustion engine or electric motor that allows for independent travel without the need for pedaling. The history of the motorbike stretches back over a century, evolving from basic bicycle designs with small attached engines into the high-performance, technologically advanced machines of the modern era.
Motorbikes are incredibly diverse, with designs tailored to specific environments. Cruisers offer a relaxed riding position for long-distance comfort, while sport bikes are engineered for high speed and agility on paved tracks. Dirt bikes are built for off-road terrain, featuring long-travel suspension and knobby tires for grip. Touring motorbikes are the heavyweights of the road, equipped with large engines and ample storage for cross-country travel. Furthermore, scooters and mopeds represent a popular sub-category, often featuring step-through frames and automatic transmissions that make them ideal for navigating congested urban centers.
The cultural impact of the motorbike is profound. It has long been associated with themes of rebellion, independence, and adventure, popularized by iconic cinema and embraced by dedicated riding clubs worldwide. Beyond the thrill of the ride, motorbikes serve as a vital, affordable, and fuel-efficient mode of transport in many developing nations. Whether it is a restored vintage classic or a cutting-edge electric model, the motorbike represents a unique lifestyle and a powerful form of personal expression.
Examples
- 1
Commuting
He bought a second-hand motorbike to get to work.
- 2
Learning to ride
She learned to ride a motorbike when she was seventeen.
- 3
Shared ride
We saw two people on a motorbike outside the station.
- 4
Travel comparison
It is quicker to cross the island by motorbike than by car.
- 5
Safety advice
Always wear a helmet when you ride a motorbike.
- 6
Riding test
He failed his motorbike test the first time, but passed it a month later.
- 7
Police report
The police are looking for a black motorbike seen near the shop.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- motorbikenounverb
Forms
- motorbikespluralnounverb