The standard bike, also known as the naked bike, the traditional bike, the muscle bike, or the commuter bike. This bike normally has very little frills, thus the term a standard or naked bike. The rider sits in an upright position allowing more visibility and comfort. These type bikes normally do not have fairings or only have small half fairings. Standard bikes are very popular in Europe and are gaining attention in the United States due to more manufacturers producing more standard type bikes.

The standard motorcycle is the most basic type of motorcycle that is stripped down to the basic essentials. The focus is on performance and functionality rather than looks or style. This motorcycle is the traditional bike that most riders start out on. Engine sizes range from 50cc to over 1300cc with various cylinder sizes. Muscle bikes are standard bikes but have more torque, larger engines, and lower gearing. They are still very basic bikes compared to other more stylish sport bikes. Commuter bikes are basic bikes with smaller engines that get great gas mileage and are easy to ride around town.

The standard bike is one of the easiest motorcycles to learn to ride on. When you take a basic rider course with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, the motorcycles they provide are Honda 250 Nighthawks, again a basic no-nonsense ride that are considered standard or naked bikes. They are inexpensive, have little to no frills, less plastic and a functional design. If you drop one while learning to ride, the repair is negligible. They are lightweight and easier to navigate in a parking lot setting, where the training is usually held. The standard bike has speed, agility, and functionality.

The standard bike is adaptable for quick and easy customization. Some examples of standard bikes on the market are: BMW's K1200R, R1200R, F650CS, Ducati Monster, Honda 919, Triumph Speed Four, Buell Lightning, Buell Blast, and the Suzuki GSF600 Bandit, just to name a few. Some muscle bikes examples are: Kawasaki ZRX1200, Yamaha XJ1300 and the Suzuki GSX1400.

Next week's article will discuss the "Cruiser Bike".

Until then, ride safe.

Nancy