Types of Motorcycle riders

Riders, bikers, motorcyclists, motorcycle enthusiasts, etc. There are many names given to those who love the motorcycle and the allure of the freedom it offers. With different types of people getting into riding, one sees a wide variety of bikers on the roads. Let's jump in and see if we can identify a few of these bikers: 

1. The Vintage/Retro riders: If the bike was not made at least 30 years ago, this group doesn't care. This group knows nearly everything to do with the history of motorcycles and even obscure facets that most people are unaware of. Most of them probably grew up around motorcycles.

They would also have the best rapport with the mechanics. So if you want to restore your dad's old motorcycle to its former glory, best to get hold of someone from this group. 

2. The DIY riders: This group of genius riders would know everything about their machines and a good deal about yours too.  They can take apart the engine and put it back with the competence of the factory worker from where the bike was made. Changing the engine oil is a skill that all bikers need to know. But this group will refit the cable, calibrate the brakes, clean out the fuel tank, modify the shocks, and a lot more. These riders are your best friends to go on to unknown routes. You can be sure that they will have the tools to fix the bike anywhere. 

3. The commuter: The only mode of travel for this group is the motorcycle. Whether it is to the office or across the country. Scorching days, freezing nights, thundering rain, nothing fazes this rider. He/She might stop if they aren't able to see the road ahead too well. Else, it's all the same to them. They always have all the biker gear and luggage so they are well prepared for any and every riding condition. 

4. The Slow rider: The slow rider is exactly as the name. They ride slow. They take in every bit of the road and the scenery. There is no rush. No impending anxiety about getting to their destination. They are truly the ones who enjoy the journey.  There is always one such rider in the group that grounds the others. Usually, the others end up waiting for quite a while at rest stops for their slow companions. In essence, the slow riders make the ride safe for the entire group. The ideal tail of the group. 

5. The Off Roader/ Tourer: Roads? Where these riders are going, they don't need roads. These riders cover vast distances across a multitude of terrains. Quite often extremely talented riders. They usually have their adventure tourers customized for themselves. One would often find them standing on the foot pegs while riding through tough terrain. 

6. The Brand Loyalists: These riders are hardcore fans of their respective motorcycle brands. In India, it's usually Royal Enfield or in some cases Harley Davidson.  The fanboys would have all their gear from the brand and worship every bike that the brand produces. 

(Pic from Royal Enfield website)

7. The Poser: Even if you aren't a biker, you probably know someone who is just in for the show. He would have a flashy bike with all the gear that is sparkling new. Wouldn't know the first thing about the motorcycle world and would stay far from such conversations. This one would have got the bike purely for the pictures and social media. When you do take a look at the meter on the bike, you'd see it hasn't run that much. More often than not, these guys would sell the bike as soon as the attention fades away. 

These are some of the different bikers that one would come across. There are plenty more. But in all honesty, a lot of riders are all of these types of riders. It comes and goes in different stages. 

Can you name a few more types of bikers? leave a comment below