What are the classification criteria for motorcycles?
2 Answers
In China, motorcycles are generally classified in two main ways: one based on engine displacement and maximum design speed, and the other based on the number and arrangement of wheels. By engine displacement and maximum design speed: They are divided into mopeds and motorcycles. A moped has an engine displacement not exceeding 50 milliliters and a maximum design speed of no more than 50 kilometers per hour. A motorcycle refers to a two-wheeled or three-wheeled motorcycle with an engine displacement greater than 50 milliliters and a maximum design speed exceeding 50 kilometers per hour. By the number and arrangement of wheels: They are categorized into three types: two-wheelers, sidecars, and tricycles. International classification standards: Motorcycles are divided into two categories based on speed and weight: dual-purpose motorcycles and motorcycles.
Having worked in traffic management for many years, I understand that the classification standards for motorcycles primarily depend on engine displacement and speed. Generally, motorcycles below 50cc are considered light motorcycles, commonly used for urban commuting; those between 125cc and 250cc are medium-displacement, suitable for beginners; and motorcycles above 500cc are classified as heavy-duty, requiring an E-class license due to their powerful performance. Regulations also stipulate that vehicles with a design speed exceeding 20 km/h can be classified as motorcycles, a rule that also applies to three-wheelers. These standards are based on safety considerations, such as limiting high-speed risks for small-displacement models. Globally, standards vary—Europe uses A-class classifications, while China strictly manages insurance and road rights based on displacement. For maintenance, different displacements have varying service intervals; for example, a 125cc model typically requires an oil change every 3,000 kilometers. In summary, displacement and speed are the core indicators, and understanding them ensures safer riding.
