1. Technical Evolution: Continuous Innovation of Efficient Engines

Modern gasoline motorbikes integrate precision engineering with performance aesthetics. Take China’s RZM250N-3 as an example: equipped with a 223ml single-cylinder oil-cooled 4-stroke engine, it delivers 12kW rated power at 8,500 rpm and a top speed of 115km/h. The 400cc twin-cylinder water-cooled model (VSK264MP-C) boosts power to 20.6kW, exceeding 150km/h. Key innovations include:

Cooling System Upgrades: Transition from air-cooling to oil/water cooling, reducing thermal decay at high RPM;

Lightweight Design: 147kg dry weight (250cc model) with alloy wheels optimizes power-to-weight ratio;

Braking Safety: Front double-disc/rear single-disc brakes ensure precise stopping power. Harley’s 2025 models further validate this trend—electronic suspension and LED lighting systems redefine comfort standards for cruisers.

2. Market Landscape: Emerging Demand and Regional Divergence

Despite electrification pressures, gasoline motorbikes dominate developing markets. 2024 Malaysian data shows: traditional fuel models comprise 98% of sales, though volume fell 19.9% YoY; conversely, electric scooters grew 306%. Consumer preferences are polarized:

Asian Commuter Market: Sub-150cc models (e.g., Yamaha Y15ZR) thrive on high fuel efficiency (≈₹2.94/km) and low maintenance[[48][56]];

Western Leisure Market: Large-displacement bikes (e.g., Harley cruisers) target performance, with 400cc+ models claiming 70% of the premium segment[[20][39]]. Chinese manufacturers leverage modular production (CBU/SKD kits) to cut costs, with single-factory capacity reaching 100,000 units/year, accelerating penetration in emerging markets[[1][40]].

3. Environmental Debate: Efficiency vs Emissions

Motorcycles’ eco-advantage over cars is paradoxical:

Manufacturing Edge: Parts count is 1/5 of cars, reducing resource use and carbon footprint;

Usage Controversy: Emissions reach 8.2kg CO₂/100km—higher than EVs but 40% lower than sedans[[30][56]];

Technical Mitigation: Modern catalytic converters and EFI systems (e.g., C.D.I ignition) cut emissions by 60% vs. pre-2010 engines[[1][30]].

Case Study: In congested Bangkok, gasoline bikes remain essential due to commuting efficiency (50% time saved vs cars) and fuel economy (250cc models: ≈2.5L/100km)[[30][48]].

4. Future Path: Hybridization and Biofuel Adaptation

Confronting electrification, gasoline motorbikes evolve through:

Hybrid Tech: Yamaha’s patented 250cc parallel-hybrid system boosts torque by 20% while reducing idling emissions;

Carbon-Neutral Fuels: Markets like Brazil adopt E100 ethanol, cutting lifecycle emissions by 70%.

Conclusion: Gasoline motorbikes are not a "sunset technology" but seek new equilibrium in performance niches and sustainable innovation. As Harley’s 2025 manifesto declares—"The thrill of internal combustion will always belong to the daring soul."