What Type of Vehicle Does a Motorcycle Belong To?
3 Answers
Motorcycles belong to motor vehicles, while electric vehicles depend on their specific type. According to the new standards for electric vehicles, electric bicycles weighing over 40 kilograms and with a speed exceeding 20 kilometers per hour are classified as light electric motorcycles or electric motorcycles, falling under the category of motor vehicles. Below are the basic components and classifications of motorcycles: Basic Components of a Motorcycle: A motorcycle consists of five main parts: the engine, transmission system, running gear, steering and braking systems, and electrical instrumentation. The overall structure and names of the components of a motorcycle. Classifications of Motorcycles: Different countries have different classification methods for motorcycles. International standards categorize motorcycles into two types based on speed and weight: dual-purpose motorcycles and motorcycles. In China, motorcycles are generally classified in two ways: one is based on engine displacement and maximum design speed, dividing them into light motorcycles and motorcycles.
Last time I went to the DMV to help a friend with procedures, I specifically researched this. Strictly speaking, motorcycles are classified as motor vehicles. Like cars, they require either blue or yellow license plates, and compulsory traffic insurance is mandatory. However, there are significant structural differences—they only have two wheels and are much lighter. According to our driving school materials, any vehicle with an engine displacement over 50cc is considered a motorcycle, and electric motorcycles are now also categorized as such. When getting a driver's license, it's important to note that motorcycle licenses are separate—either a Class D or Class E license—and cannot be mixed with a Class C1 car license. If you're caught riding an unlicensed motorcycle, the penalties are the same as for unlicensed car driving.
As someone who frequently handles auto insurance claims, I categorize all motorcycle accident materials under motor vehicle files. Last month, there was a case where a client riding a heavy cruiser rear-ended a small truck on a provincial highway. The traffic police accident report clearly labeled the motorcycle as a "two-wheeled motor vehicle." The claim was processed under motor vehicle third-party liability insurance. Interestingly, there are significant regional differences in regulations. For example, Beijing's Jing A license plates can enter the city center, while Shanghai's Hu A plates are highly coveted. However, it's important to note that scooters under 50cc are classified as light motorcycles in some areas, where the regulations are more lenient.
