Powersport vehicles are designed for racing and recreational pleasure riding. The main defining feature of powersport vehicles is that on these machines the rider sits on a saddle rather than inside of an enclosed space. These vehicles are typically powered by a high-performance engine and controlled with a handlebar.
Difference Between Motorsports and Powersports
Powersport is considered to be a subset of motorsports. The term ‘motorsports’ typically refers to a bunch of sporting events and competitions involving the use of high-performance vehicles or vessels. The most popular general motorsport vehicles are racing cars and boats. But if the races or events involve motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles or jet skis, they are considered to be powersports events. This subcategory usually includes off-road ATVs and motocross racing as well. The most popular competition for powersport vehicles is arguably the X-games.
Types of Powersport Vehicles
There are a few distinct types of powersport vehicles, and they are driven to participate in various different terrains. Some of the most popular powersport vehicles include motorcycles, trikes, ATVs, snowmobiles, and jet skis.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles are also known as the street-legal powersport vehicle. In contrast, if you want to legally drive a dirt bike, you must transport it to a trail. As you might assume, hauling these machines is always a big hassle. You have to load and unload them onto a trailer every time and getting to the trail also requires time and money. Another reason why motorcycles are the most popular powersport vehicles is that they are very small and take up very little space in the garage. Jet skis, snowmobiles, and ATVs typically sit on a trailer that takes the place of a second car or other types of gear!
Trikes
Trikes are usually 3-wheeler motorcycles, so they are often classified together. Regular touring or cruiser motorcycles can also be turned into trikes by installing an aftermarket trike kit. Fortunately, besides the regular “rigid” design, leaning trike kits are also available!
Snowmobiles
Snowmobiles are extremely fast and offer an outstanding experience as many of them can run in deep snow with ease. Others are designed for fast trail riding, touring, or even for work. At first glance, snowmobiles look like reverse trikes. One of the main differences between these machines is that snowmobiles feature a pair of skis on their front instead of two wheels.
Jet Skis
Jet skis are the only powersport vehicles that run on the water. Today’s sit-down jet skis are pretty huge, so they can be used for many other purposes besides pleasure riding. The most popular activities involve jet ski fishing, touring, and even towing a wakeboarder.
ATVs
As their name implies these vehicles can be used on various terrains. They basically look like a 4-wheeler motorcycle that runs on low-pressure tires. Sport ATVs are more aggressive as they are designed for racing and great adrenaline rushes. Therefore, these machines offer a lot of power and excellent maneuverability.
