Scooters
Automatic, easy to ride and cheap to run. Popular for city commuting and short trips.
- 50 cc to 300 cc and above
- Under-seat storage
- Many are learner approved
Motorbikes in Australia
From city scooters to outback adventure bikes.
A plain-English guide to riding in Australia: the main types of motorbike, the brands sold here, how learner licences and LAMS work, and what to check before you buy.
The main types of motorbike
Australia's long distances, mixed weather and huge network of dirt roads mean almost every style of motorbike has a following here. These are the main categories you'll see in showrooms.
Naked and road bikes
Upright, versatile bikes that suit commuting, weekend rides and newer riders.
- Wide range of LAMS models
- Comfortable riding position
- Low running costs
Sport bikes
Full fairings, sharp handling and race-bred engines for twisty roads and track days.
- Forward-leaning position
- From 300 cc learner models to superbikes
- Popular for track days
Adventure bikes
Tall, tough bikes made for long trips on sealed and gravel roads, one of the fastest-growing segments in Australia.
- Long-travel suspension
- Luggage and big fuel range
- Outback and touring trips
Cruisers
Low seats, relaxed ergonomics and big torquey engines for easy highway riding.
- Low seat height
- V-twin and parallel-twin engines
- Strong custom culture
Touring bikes
Built for comfort over hundreds of kilometres a day, often carrying a pillion and luggage.
- Wind protection
- Cruise control and heated grips
- Panniers and top boxes
Dirt and trail bikes
Light, rugged bikes for farms, trails and motocross. Some are road registered; many are for off-road use only.
- Enduro and trail
- Motocross
- Farm and ag bikes
Electric motorbikes
Quiet, low-maintenance electric motorbikes and scooters, mostly suited to commuting for now.
- No fuel and fewer services
- Instant torque
- Range is improving fast
Motorbike brands sold in Australia
Australian riders can choose from Japanese, European, American and Asian makers. The Japanese "big four" sell across every category. European and American brands are strong in adventure, sport and cruiser models.
Japanese
HondaYamahaKawasakiSuzuki
European
BMW MotorradDucatiKTMTriumphHusqvarnaApriliaMoto GuzziVespa
American
Harley-DavidsonIndian
Asian
Royal EnfieldCFMOTOKymcoSYM
Brand names are trademarks of their owners. This site isn't affiliated with any manufacturer or dealer.
Getting your motorbike licence
Every state and territory uses a graduated licence system, and new riders are limited to learner approved motorcycles (LAMS). The exact steps, ages and waiting periods depend on where you live.
Learner permit
Complete a basic rider training course or pre-learner assessment, then pass a road rules knowledge test. Learners must display L plates, ride a LAMS-approved bike and usually can't carry a pillion.
Provisional or restricted licence
After a minimum time on your learner permit, pass a practical riding test. You'll stay on a LAMS bike for a set period with extra conditions, such as a zero blood alcohol limit.
Unrestricted licence
Once you've completed the restricted period, you can ride any size or power of motorbike.
What is LAMS?
The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme lists bikes that are suitable for new riders. LAMS bikes have an engine capacity of up to 660 cc and a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 150 kW per tonne. Many popular road, adventure and cruiser models come in LAMS-approved versions.
This is a summary only. Check the rules, eligibility and approved bike list with your state or territory licensing authority before you buy or ride.
Buying a motorbike in Australia
Whether it's your first LAMS bike or your next big tourer, these are the checks worth making.
Pick the right style
Think about where you'll ride most: city traffic, highways, twisty back roads or gravel. Sit on a few bikes and check you can reach the ground comfortably.
Check it's LAMS approved
If you're on a learner or restricted licence, make sure the exact model and year is on your state's approved list before you pay.
Search the register
Before you buy a used bike, search the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). It shows whether there's finance owing or the bike has been written off or reported stolen.
Registration and insurance
Compulsory third party (CTP) insurance is included in rego in most states, but in NSW you buy a CTP green slip separately. Comprehensive insurance is worth considering, especially for a new bike.
Budget for gear
Helmets must meet an approved standard, such as AS/NZS 1698 or UN ECE 22. Add a jacket, gloves, pants and boots made for riding. Good gear is part of the cost of the bike.
Test ride and inspect
Check the tyres, chain, brakes and service history, and look for crash damage. A test ride shows how the bike handles and whether it suits you.
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