Motorradklasse

Motorradklasse is a term used primarily in German-language contexts to denote a category or class of motorcycles. It is used in two main areas: legal licensing for motorcycle riders and in motor sports to group motorcycles by technical specifications or performance. The exact definition depends on the jurisdiction and the organizing body, but the concept centers on grouping motorcycles by characteristics such as engine displacement, power, or intended use.

In licensing, the European Union established a system of motorcycle driving license classes commonly referred to in German as Motorradklassen: Klasse A1, A2 and A. A1 covers motorcycles with engines up to 125 cubic centimeters and a limited power, typically up to 11 kW. A2 covers larger motorcycles up to 35 kW with a restricted power-to-weight ratio, and A covers unrestricted power subject to age and training requirements. Separately, Klasse AM covers mopeds up to 50 cc. These classes define eligibility, required training, and minimum ages for riding different types of motorcycles.

In competitive motorcycling, Motorradklasse refers to divisions used by race organizers to separate machines by technical specifications. Common classes include small-displacement categories around 125 cc, mid-range classes such as 250 cc, and larger production or prototype classes like Superbike and MotoGP. Rules are defined by national federations and international bodies, with variations among events.

The term is primarily used in German-speaking contexts; in English, it is usually translated as motorcycle class. The actual class names and limits vary by country and organization.