You’ve finally decided to become the owner of a brand new two-wheeler, your first one or maybe an upgrade from your previous model. And here you are, facing the endless variety of bikes and brands in the UAE, overwhelmed by the choice and yet still hoping to save some cash. To make the life of a buyer a little bit easier, we have prepared a short motorcycle comparison guide. Dive in and learn what to look at when choosing your new motorbike.
Motorcycle specs comparison: what really matters
Like with any vehicle, you need to look first at technical specifications that actually define the performance and, ultimately, your riding experience. Also, with bikes, a particular category matters probably more than anything else. Let’s start our comparison of motorcycles by looking at their most common categories.
Motorcycle comparison by category: off-road and city options
Widely speaking, there are off-road and on-road motorcycles. The first group is mostly limited to Enduro bikes and pitbikes. Some dual-purpose models can ride on both paved roads and dirt tracks.
The second, larger group of on-road motorcycles can be roughly divided into the following subcategories:
- Touring bikes, like the Sharmax GL 991 Ultra, are quite heavy and stable, with excellent ergonomics; they feel confident on the road and can go long distances thanks to their large fuel tank (14-25 liters). Such models often come with extra storage boxes.
- Sport bikes, like the Sharmax GP 881 Ultra, are easily recognized by their aggressive looks and aerodynamic design with lots of plastic fairings. The seating position is leaning forward. Naturally, they boast powerful engines and are great for high-speed riding on smooth roads. However, sport models are not recommended as first motorcycles.
- Cruisers and choppers, like the Sharmax RR 250 Competition, will suit those who prefer relaxed rides through the city. In a nutshell, they have a low seat, upright riding position, powerful engine, extended front fork, and striking appearance. Most of them are quite heavy, so when doing a motorcycle weight comparison, keep this in mind.
- Classic road bikes, like the Sharmax GL 400 or the RST 200 Ultra, are all-rounder models that suit almost anyone. Standard and naked bikes belong to this category. They are highly versatile and known for their simple, user-friendly controls, comfortable seating, compact size, and maneuverability. They are easy to learn on and serve as a good choice for inexperienced riders.
Motorcycle engine comparison: type and displacement
For proper motorbike comparison, we need to look at the heart of the machine – its engine.
As for the engine type, a 4-stroke engine with fuel injection is typically more fuel efficient, more environmentally friendly, more powerful and less noisy compared to a 2-stroke setup with a carburetor. It is easier to launch in any conditions and smoother in operation. On the other hand, models with a carburetor have a simpler build which lowers their cost. They are also more forgiving when it comes to low-quality fuel and can be easily maintained at home.
Engine displacement is what determines the power and speed of a bike. Models with up to 250 cc are easier to manage and generally safer but their power and speed are somewhat limited. Bikes with displacement between 300 and 400 cc are great for riders with prior experience. They have middle-range power and speed up to 120 km/h. Up from 600 cc are the models for real performance and acceleration, ideal for riders with over 5 years of riding experience.
Motorcycle weight and size comparison: stability vs. agility
Going further with the motorcycle specs comparison, we should also look at their dimensions and weight. Basically, the two categories depend on the bike class we discussed above:
- Heavyweight and large models are cruisers, touring bikes, large adventure bikes, and high-capacity sport-tourers. By “heavy” we usually mean anything above 230–250 kg.
- Middleweight and middlesized bikes are between 180 and 230 kg. These are usually standard “naked” bikes, mid-size sportbikes, dual-sport, and adventure bikes.
- Lightweight motorcycles are usually no heavier than 180 kg. Their overall build is lighter, the frame is less heavy and they have less material overall. This includes small commuters, scooters, street bikes, pit bikes, and many beginner bikes.
To round up the motorcycle dimension comparison, we should mention nothing but the common truth: larger and heavier bikes feel more stable at higher speeds, but they are harder to balance at low speeds. Lighter models, on the other hand, may feel less stable on the open road, but they are much easier to park, maneuver in tight spaces, and handle in city traffic. They also tend to be less tiring for beginners, especially during longer rides or frequent stop-and-go situations.
Motorcycle price comparison in the UAE
For most of us, the price comes as the decisive factor. In the UAE, prices vary depending on the dealer and the bike model. The range is wide, starting at AED 5,500 and going all the way up to AED 73,500.
Entry-level motorcycles: budget-friendly choices
If you are just starting to ride, go for entry-level models. These are basically street bikes or low-displacement naked bikes like the Sharmax RST 150 Ultra, selling at just above AED 4,000. Also, the cost of maintenance for such a bike will be surprisingly low.
Mid-range motorcycles: balancing price and performance
For a bit more confidence and performance, opt for mid-range models that usually fall in the range between AED 6,000 and AED 15,000. Check out the Sharmax GL 400 or the RST 250 Competition.
Premium motorcycles: top specs for serious riders
Here, we mean the top-notch vehicles for those who are looking for a serious upgrade. Be ready to spend between AED 20,000 to 50,000. The Sharmax Custom 1100 RR Limited is a fine representative of such an expensive giant.
Motorcycle warranty comparison: protecting your investment
The warranty terms differ by manufacturer. On average, most new motorcycles come with a warranty of 2 years, which typically covers defects in materials and workmanship. With Sharmax Motors, buyers get an extended warranty of up to 3 years which is a rare case nowadays. So, when it comes to motorcycle warranty comparison in the UAE, Sharmax definitely leads the way as the brand cares about long-lasting and trust-based relationships with its customers.
Frequently asked questions
Which factors matter the most in motorcycle comparison?
In any motorbike comparison, power, displacement and bike size matter the most. These factors determine how easy this particular bike is to ride and how manageable it is for a rider with a certain experience level.
How can I understand motorcycle specifications?
Look at its category first, then the engine power, and then at other additional specs that matter for you, such as brakes with ABS, electronic fuel injection and so on.
Which motorcycle to choose according to your riding style?
No one knows your lifestyle better than you do, so it’s up to you to decide. If you are really into speed and performance, then the sports bike is up for grabs. For everyday rides in the city, look for street and road bikes. For adventure-style riding and off-roading, check out enduros and dual-purpose bikes.
Conclusion: finding the best motorbike for your riding goals
To find your best motorbike in the UAE, be it the first one or an upgrade, you need to have clear riding goals and a certain budget you are ready to part with. You need to run a thorough motorbike comparison, and this article was created to help you navigate the overload of information out there. Start with a motorcycle type, its engine and then additional specs. Do your homework and run your own research on motorcycle price comparison in the UAE.
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to pick the right bike for you. Visit our online catalog or drop by any Sharmax Showroom in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.