Motorrad

Motorrad is the German word for a motorcycle, a motorized vehicle with typically two wheels used for personal transport and recreation. In German, the singular is das Motorrad and the plural is Motorräder. The term combines Motor (motor) and Rad (wheel). In German-speaking contexts, Motorrad denotes the vehicle itself, and in brand contexts it is common to see terms such as BMW Motorrad, the motorcycle division of BMW.

Historically, the development of motorized two-wheelers began in the late 19th century. Gottlieb Daimler’s 1885 Reitwagen is often cited as the first motorcycle. German manufacturers such as NSU, Zundapp, and later BMW contributed to early engineering and mass production. After World War II, the motorcycle industry expanded and diversified into sport, touring, and off-road segments, with global manufacturers and models following international trends.

In contemporary usage, motorcycles are classified by engine configuration, displacement, and intended use. Common categories include sport bikes, touring bikes, cruisers, adventure motorcycles, and dual-sport bikes; scooters form a distinct class with typically smaller engines and a step-through frame. Technological development has included advances in four-stroke engines, liquid cooling, and electronic aids such as anti-lock braking systems, ride-by-wire, and, increasingly, electric powertrains. Safety, licensing, and urban planning considerations shaped by traffic laws also influence the role of motorcycles in different regions.