A motorcycle is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an engine, designed to carry one or two people, sometimes at high speeds. Unlike a bicycle, which relies on pedaling, a motorcycle uses gasoline or electricity to turn its wheels. Riders sit on a seat and control the motorcycle with handlebars, a throttle (like a car's gas pedal), and brakes.

Motorcycles combine the thrill of speed with the vulnerability of being exposed to the elements: riders feel the wind, the sun, and the bumps in the road directly. Because motorcycles offer less protection than cars, riders typically wear helmets and protective gear. Some people ride motorcycles for practical transportation, especially in crowded cities where they can move through traffic. Others ride for the pure joy of it, taking long trips through mountains or deserts.

The first motorcycles appeared in the 1880s, essentially bicycles with small engines attached. Today's motorcycles range from nimble dirt bikes built for off-road adventures to powerful touring motorcycles designed for comfortable long-distance travel. Police officers often use motorcycles to patrol streets quickly, and motorcycle racing has become a popular sport where riders compete at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour.