What Speed for Which Gear on a Motorcycle?
2 Answers
For a motorcycle, first gear is suitable for climbing at 10-20 km/h; second gear for 20-30 km/h; third gear for 30-50 km/h; fourth gear for 50-60 km/h; and fifth gear for 60-100 km/h or above. Taking a typical 125cc motorcycle as an example, maintaining a steady speed of 50-60 km/h is the most fuel-efficient. Avoid operating the engine at high RPMs in low gears, such as waiting until reaching 40 km/h in second gear before shifting to third, as this can over-rev the engine and increase fuel consumption over time. Class D License: License Code: D, Application Age: 18-60 years, Vehicle Class: Standard two-wheeled motorcycles, Eligible Vehicles: Three-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50km/h, Other Eligible Classes: E, F, Annual Medical Exam: Not required for those under 60 years old, Test Vehicle Requirements: At least a four-speed standard three-wheeled motorcycle (either front or side configuration). Class E License: License Code: E, Application Age: 18-60 years, Vehicle Class: Standard two-wheeled motorcycles, Eligible Vehicles: Two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement exceeding 50ml or a maximum design speed exceeding 50km/h, Other Eligible Classes: F, Annual Medical Exam: Not required for those under 60 years old, Test Vehicle Requirements: At least a four-speed standard two-wheeled motorcycle. Class F License: License Code: F, Application Age: 18-70 years, Vehicle Class: Light motorcycles, Eligible Vehicles: Motorcycles with an engine displacement ≤50ml and a maximum design speed ≤50km/h, Other Eligible Classes: Only F, no additional classes, Annual Medical Exam: Not required for those under 60 years old, Test Vehicle Requirements: To be specified by provincial traffic management authorities under the public security department.
As someone who enjoys studying mechanical principles, I believe the key to motorcycle gear shifting lies in matching speed with engine state. Typically, when starting from a standstill (near 0 km/h), first gear is essential—otherwise, the bike will shudder or even stall. As speed increases to 10-15 km/h, second gear becomes appropriate, offering smoother acceleration. At 20-30 km/h, shift to third gear for effortless and steady engine operation. Fourth or fifth gear suits speeds of 40-50 km/h, maintaining moderate RPM to reduce wear. For higher speeds like 60+ km/h, top gears (e.g., sixth) optimize efficiency. However, this isn’t rigid—performance varies greatly by motorcycle. A 125cc small-displacement bike may struggle in second gear beyond 25 km/h, while a 650cc model can handle 60 km/h in third gear effortlessly. Listen to the engine: roaring indicates high RPM (upshift needed), while sluggishness calls for a downshift. On inclines, shift early to avoid strain; on descents, use lower gears for engine braking safety. Beginners can start with speed as a reference, gradually honing intuition through practice—experience breeds mastery.
