For most people, the word ” Motorcycle” automatically means the feeling of power, speed and undeniably taking over the road. You have to admit, whether you’re a rider, or have even been on a bike, you tend to admire the riders as they zip past you on the road, with the sun on them, and the open feelings of fresh air. The motorcycle, just like the car has traveled a long way in its design, coming out from a four-wheeled counterport, steam-powered, powerful machine that it is today.
By 1860, the steam engine industry with its method of mobilization and mechanization for most machines, were the power source for most forms of transportation, such as the locomotive. In 1869 steam power was applied to 2 wheeled bicycles, thus being the power sdource for the bike. One of the models had a songle-cylinder engine, with a cylindrical boiler to generate steam. and one engine boosted a 2 cylinder engine with a charcoal-fired boiler, for power. Both bikes were very impressive, however it was thought that the steam engines were impractically large for the two wheeled machines, and the idea as quickly abandoned.
In the early pioneer day of the motorcycle engineers experimented with all kinds of power sources for the bikes. Some of the sources tried are compressed air, mechanized clock work, and hydrogen gas. It wasn’t until Gottlieb Daimier applied the application of internal combustion, engine powered by gasoline that the motorcycle was considered viable. So he is credited for the first true creation of the motorcycle. After which most experiments were generally isolated to German and French design.
As motorcycles become increasingly more viable manufacturing started designing their own unique concepts and design. While single-cylinder engines, and single-speed transmission were fine, manufactures began experimenting with overhead valves, variable gears, and clutches. In fact, many of the features found on motorcycles today were originally conceived in the 1900′s but it was too costly for producton.
Between 1940 and 1950, a great number of advances were made in the motorcycle techonlogy, including improved suspension, dual seats, sidecars, and even push-button ignition on some models. At one point the motorcycle was facing great compitition from the automobile.
In the twenty-first century, motorcycle are no longer seen primarily as a mode of transportation, but more as a status symbol of one’s lifestyle, fun, good times, and luxury. While the future of the motorcycle design will likely bring several new innovations, safety is a major certain now, and to become a greater one in the future , with additional safety featrues added as part of the bikes package. Remember to always, gear up properly, meaning helmets should be worn at all times, gloves with the protective armor, a jacket, also with protective armor, and the proper footwear. Experiments are being performed currently for leg protectors, and air bags on the newer models. It is true that you have freedom of the road, power and speed at your fingertips, but use all of that in a safe way. Don’t always exercise all your options with the motorcycle.
Written by proudmomof5
56 retired, disabled, employment background medical. Love all children and senior citizens
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