What are the corresponding speeds for each gear on a motorcycle?
4 Answers
The standard speeds for each gear on a motorcycle are as follows: 1st gear is suitable for climbing at speeds between 10 to 20 km/h, 2nd gear between 20 to 30 km/h, 3rd gear between 30 to 50 km/h, 4th gear between 50 to 60 km/h, and 5th gear for speeds above 60 to 100 km/h. The most fuel-efficient speed range is between 30 to 50 km/h. The fuel consumption curve at different engine speeds resembles a fishhook shape, with higher fuel consumption at low and high speeds, and lower fuel consumption at medium speeds, making this the economical speed range. Practice has also shown that motorcycles are most fuel-efficient when traveling at a stable speed. Motorcycle riding precautions: Wear full riding gear, including a helmet and protective equipment. According to the new motor vehicle driver's license application and management regulations, riding a motorcycle without a helmet will result in a deduction of 2 points. Comply with highway traffic laws, avoid speeding, and refrain from changing lanes arbitrarily. Motorcycles inherently have inferior braking capabilities compared to cars, so it's especially important to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front when riding on highways. Before entering the highway, check the vehicle's condition to ensure the braking system is functioning properly, tire pressure is normal, and the tires still have sufficient grip. Ensure the motorcycle meets the safety requirements for highway riding. A motorcycle safe for highway use should be able to cruise steadily at least at 100 km/h and still have the ability to overtake easily at that speed.
As a seasoned rider with over a decade of experience, I often get asked this question by beginners. Looking back, there's really no fixed correlation between gears and speed—it depends more on RPM and riding conditions. For example, on highways, I usually cruise in 6th gear at 80-100 km/h, with the engine running smoothly and quietly. But in city traffic jams, I might shift down to 2nd gear and move flexibly between 30-50 km/h. The key is to pay attention to the engine sound and vibration—too low and you'll lack power and risk stalling, too high and you'll waste fuel and accelerate wear. I recommend experimenting in different scenarios: use lower gears for torque when climbing hills, and higher gears to save effort when descending. Ultimately, it's about adjusting by feel, just like riding a bicycle—don't rigidly memorize numbers, safety comes first.
When I first started learning to ride a motorcycle, I was always curious about the appropriate speed range for each gear. After checking the manual, I found that 1st gear could comfortably handle speeds from 10 to 30 km/h, while 2nd gear generally worked well between 20 and 50 km/h. But now I understand that speed depends more on RPM – higher RPM naturally leads to faster acceleration. There are also significant differences between bike models. A 125cc scooter can maintain city speeds in 2nd gear, while larger displacement bikes might require shifting up more frequently. Practice shifting in an empty lot more often; listening to the engine sound is the best indicator.
Motorcycle speed is determined by engine RPM and the current gear. In first gear at low RPM, you might only go 15 km/h, but revving higher can push it over 40+. Sixth gear has a higher top speed, easily exceeding 100 km/h. However, the exact numbers vary depending on the rider, the bike, and factors like weight and road conditions. I suggest beginners not overthink it—just get a feel for the rhythm.
