Off-road
There are several different types of off-road motorcycles, also known as dirt bikes, designed and specialised for specific functions. For off road use they typically, when compared to road going motorcycles, have:
- Light weight
- Long suspension travel and high ground clearance
- Simple, rugged construction with little bodywork and no fairing
- Large wheels with knobby tires, often clamped to the rim with a rim lock
Cruiser
These motorcycles mimic the style of American machines from the 1930s to the early 1960s, such as those made by Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Excelsior-Henderson, even though they have benefited from advances in metallurgy and design. The riding position always places the feet forward. Usually the hands are up and the spine erect or leaning back slightly, with some compromise of control. Chopper-style motorcycles would be categorized as a type of cruiser.
Some cruisers may have limited performance and turning ability because of a low-slung design. Riders who enjoy cornering at higher speeds may need to customize to enhance lean angle, or start with a performance or sport cruiser. Cruisers are often custom projects that result in a bike modified to suit the owner's ideals, and as such are a source of pride and accomplishment. Cruisers are sometimes called custom even in the absence of aftermarket modifications.