On-Road vs Off-Road Motorcycles

In the world of motorcycles, there are two overarching categories of bikes. There are speed machines designed to cruise around the city, which are known as On-Road or street bikes. Then there are terrain-conquering beasts designed to tackle Mother Nature, which are known as Off-Road or dirt bikes. We created the following guide to help you figure out which category better fits you below. When you're ready to look at some models, visit Abernathy's Cycles. You'll find us in Union City, Tennessee.

Size

One glance at the two types of motorcycles and you'll notice a difference right away. Dirt bikes are significantly smaller in size than street bikes. Dirt bikes need to be agile, after all, to maneuver over the tough terrain. They are stripped down to the bare bones to keep them light (and, in turn, agiler).

Street bikes, on the other hand, need to be heavier. They are sharing the road with massive vehicles that create plenty of drag. The extra weight keeps street bikes steadier and easier to control against the drag. The larger size also makes it easier to include features for city riding, such as a stereo.

Tires

Because these bikes vary in their riding styles, their tires are different too. There's a size difference of course. But there are other differences too. Dirt bikes ride a more rough terrain and require better traction. Their tires tend to come with features such as more nobs, a more flexible carcass, and a narrower width to help riders push through debris.

Street bikes still need traction of course, but they are ridden on a smooth and easy surface. Their tires tend to be larger, wider, and smoother to better fit the larger motorcycle.

Frame

The core of these motorcycles is different too. Dirt bikes have a smaller and lighter frame, which makes them easier to handle and more flexible. They tend to be built with hard plastics so that they can be less rigid.

Street bikes, on the other hand, need stability on that crowded open road. Their frames tend to b built with plenty of stiff, strong metal. As a bonus, the metal frame also boosts their aesthetic!

Seat Position

These motorcycles take to different terrain, which also means they use different seating positions. Dirt bike riders spend most of their time standing up. The seats are built leaning forward to make for easier transition between sitting and standing. 

Street bike riders, in contrast, spend their time sitting down. Their seat position is further back, which makes for a more comfortable ride. But there can be plenty of variety in their location and padding among the different models.

Suspension

Finally, the last key difference between these bikes is their suspension. A motorcycle's suspension works to absorb shock so that your ride stay smooths. The more shock to absorb, the looser the suspension will tend to be. 

Dirt bikes conquer rugged terrain, which means cruising over plenty of obstacles and dips in the turf. They need a big support system of hydraulic tubes and spring shocks to absorb impacts. Otherwise, you'll be tossed about as you hit those backroads.

But with street bikes, too much suspension can be a bad thing. It can cause choppy, uncomfortable rides and can even cause you to bottom out. On-Road motorcycles will usually implement tighter shocks. That way, they can absorb what they need without hurting ride comfort.

Ready to check out some motorcycles in person? Visit Abernathy's Cycles. We carry a range of new and used dirt bikes and street bikes. Our friendly staff can help you find the perfect model for your budget and riding needs. We proudly serve those in Union City, Nashville, and Memphis, Tennessee.