Cruisers 

Pictured: Harley-Davidson 2020 Deluxe, MSRP $18,399 USD

One of the most popular motorcycle types in the world, and for good reason. Cruisers are known for being comfortable, varietal, and popular. Top cruiser brands include Harley-Davidson, Indian, and most metric manufacturers (like Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Kawasaki). Typically cruisers are heavier bikes, with resulting lower power to weight ratios, and a focus on comfort and low-end torque. 

Pros: Comfort, ease, widely varietal models, community gatherings. 

Cons: Weight, power:weight ratio, costs (some models).

Sportbikes

Pictured: Honda CBR650F, MSRP $8,749 USD

One of the most well-known and varietal categories of motorcycles, sportbikes can be cost-effective, reliable, powerful, and fast. These easily customizable bikes come in a variety of sizes, making them popular with riders of all types. Metric manufacturers dominate the market for sportbike production, while premium brands include BMW, Aprilia, and Ducati. Popular models worldwide include the Honda CBR, Kawasaki Ninja, and Yamaha YZF.

Pros: Varying sizes (125cc-1,000+), nimble, lightweight, cost-effective.

Cons: Comfort (aggressive body positioning), steep rake angle.

Standard & Naked 

Pictured: Yamaha MT-09, MSRP $9,399

The “naked” bike is arguably one of the most versatile and simple types of motorcycles that a rider can buy. Also termed “standard” bikes or “streetfighters,” these motorcycles typically have no fairings, minimal to no windshields, and a more upright body positioning. Naked bikes tend to cross over into the “sportbike” column, with most bikes functioning on the track just as well as the street. 

Pros: Nimble, comfortable, versatile, lightweight, low seat height.

Cons: Lack of fairings, little to no windshield, minimal luggage options.

Adventure (ADV) 

Pictured: BMW R 1250 GS Adventure, MSRP $20,345 USD

Adventure bikes were designed for exactly what their name suggests— adventures! These sturdy bikes are typically outfitted with a tall seat height, tall windshield, ample suspension travel, upright seating positioning, and plenty of luggage options. Most ADV bikes will also come equipped with on-road/off-road tires

Pros: Versatile, luggage capacity, comfort.

Cons: Possibly heavy, limited off-road capabilities. 

Dual Sports & Enduros

Pictured: Suzuki DR-Z400S, MSRP $6,799 USD

Dual sports and enduros are about as close as you can get to a true dirtbike while still being street legal. These motorcycles are usually tall, narrow, lightweight, and feature upright seating and low to no windshields. Models can be ridden with street tires, dirt tires, or a mix of both depending on rider preference. 

Pros: Upright seating, off-road capabilities, lightweight, nimble.

Cons: Tall seat height, low/no windshield, possible small gas tank (dependent on model).  

Dirtbikes

Pictured: 2021 Yamaha YZ125, MSRP $6599 USD

True dirtbikes typically come in either 4-stroke, 2-stroke, or electric models. These motorcycles are designed solely for off-road riding, and lack the headlights, taillights, mirrors, and turn signals to make them street-legal.   

Pros: Lightweight, nimble, varietal model types and sizes.

Cons: Limited to offroad riding, tall seat heights (some models), kickstarts (some models), small gas tanks (some models). 

Electric 

Pictured: Zero SR/S, MSRP $19,995 USD

Though not many electric models currently exist for sale by major manufacturers, their popularity is undoubtedly on the rise. These bikes come in a variety of styles, and are the ultimate choice for environmentally-focused riders, or those who just love modern tech. 

Pros: Environmentally conscious, quiet, modern design. 

Cons: Price, battery range, maintenance/repair costs (some models).