Motorcycles have been produced in myriad configurations for innumerable purposes. Most motorcycles fall into one of three main categories — street, off-road, and dual-purpose — depending on the surface they are intended to be used on. A few specialty machines do not fall into one of these categories. Each configuration offers either specialized advantage or broad capability, and each design creates a different riding posture.

Street

Road motorcycles are motorcycles designed for being ridden on paved roads. They feature smooth tires with a light tread pattern and engines generally in the 125 cc and over range. Most are capable of speeds up to 100 mph (160 km/h), and many of speeds in excess of 125 mph (200 km/h).

In India and Pakistan, motorcycles are more popular than cars as means of transport due to low operating and ownership cost. Typical displacements are small (50–450 cc), and as a result these motorcycles give better fuel efficiency — reportedly 1.25–2.5 litres/100 km (94–188 mpg) being common.

Road motorcycles are themselves broken down into several sub-categories.

Cruiser

main: Cruiser (motorcycle)

These motorcycles mimic the style of American machines from the 1930s to the early 1960s, such as those made by Harley-Davidson, Indian, and Excelsior-Henderson, even though they have benefited from advances in metallurgy and design. The riding position always places the feet forward. Usually the hands are up and the spine erect or leaning back slightly, which some riders find to be more comfortable for long-distance riding. The riding position of American-style Cruisers and Choppers evolved from the Western Saddle and riding position used by Western cowboys.Fact: date=June 2007 This position allows greater long-distance comfort, with some compromise of control. Chopper-style motorcycles would be categorized as a type of cruiser.

Some cruisers may have limited performance and turning ability because of a low-slung design. Riders who enjoy cornering at higher speeds may need to customize to enhance lean angle, or start with a performance or sport cruiser. Cruisers are often custom projects that result in a bike modified to suit the owner's ideals, and as such are a source of pride and accomplishment. Cruisers are sometimes called custom even in the absence of aftermarket modifications (see Custom (motorcycle)).

Sport bike

main: Sport bike Sport bikes, sometimes called performance bikes or "crotch rockets," emphasize speed, acceleration, deceleration, and maneuverability. Because of this, there are certain design elements that most motorcycles of this type will share. Sport bikes have comparatively high performance engines resting inside a lightweight frame. The combination of these help maintain structural integrity and chassis rigidity. Braking systems combine higher performance brake pads and multi-piston calipers that clamp onto oversized vented rotors. Suspension systems are advanced in terms of adjustments and materials for increased stability and durability. Front and rear tires are larger and wider than tires found on other types of motorcycles to accommodate higher cornering speeds and greater lean angles. Fairings may or may not be found on a sport bike. When used, the fairings are shaped to reduce aerodynamic drag as much as possible, and generally offer less wind protection for the rider. The performance of some stock sport bikes is so high that they can be used on a race track right off the showroom floor.