How is motorcycle displacement classified?
3 Answers
Motorcycle displacement refers to the cylinder volume of the engine, measured in milliliters. The numbers in motorcycle model names represent the displacement. Here is more related information: Motorcycle displacement can be divided into five categories: 1. Ultra-lightweight. Below 100cc, including 50-90cc, such as 50, 70, 80, and 90cc. 2. Lightweight. Small displacement—100-150cc, including 100, 110, 125, and 150cc. 3. Medium-small displacement, 200-400cc, including 200, 250, 300, and 400cc. 4. Large displacement. 500-900cc, including 500, 600, 750, and 900cc. 5. Liter-class large displacement. Above 1000cc, such as 1000, 1100, 1250, and 1300cc.
Motorcycle displacement classification mainly depends on the engine cylinder capacity, usually expressed in milliliters (ml) or cubic centimeters (cc). Having ridden for over a decade, I've seen it divided like this: below 50cc is considered a moped, like the old Jialing models; below 125cc are light motorcycles, very common for commuting and grocery runs; 250cc counts as an entry-level fun bike, most suitable for beginners to practice; 400 to 600cc are called mid-range, with enough power yet still manageable; liter-class refers to those aggressive beasts above 1000cc, which are hard to handle without several years of experience. Different displacements have quite distinct positioning—small displacements save fuel and are easy to park, while large displacements are thrilling for mountain runs and cornering. Choosing a bike depends on your needs and riding skills.
Motorcycle displacement classification is quite systematic. According to domestic regulations, 50ml is the dividing line between electric bicycles and fuel-powered mopeds; 50-150ml belongs to light motorcycles, requiring a blue license plate; exceeding 150ml qualifies as a regular motorcycle, which must have a yellow license plate. Through my own research, I've found that 250cc twin-cylinder bikes are most suitable for urban commuting, with models like the Ninja 250 consuming only 3.5 liters per 100km; 600cc four-cylinder bikes are regulars on the racetrack, capable of exceeding 200km/h; liter-class bikes are like supercars in the motorcycle world. When purchasing a motorcycle, remember that displacement also affects compulsory traffic insurance costs - below 150cc the premium is just 80 yuan, while 250cc increases to 120 yuan.
