What Does CC Mean in a Motorcycle? | Timber Town Harley-Davidson

What Does CC Mean in a Motorcycle?

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The cc meaning for engines refers to the size of the compression chamber. The larger the chamber, the more room there is for air and fuel to be compressed. Thus, a higher-cc engine generates more power and speed than a lower-cc engine.

What is a “good” cc for a motorcycle? It depends on what you’re looking for. Different types of Harley-Davidson bikes are made for different types of riding, and the various engine sizes have their own unique advantages. Bikes with higher-cc engines—like cruiser and touring models—are larger, have more features, and are designed for long-distance riding. On the other hand, a bike with a smaller engine capacity will be better on gas and agile enough for the more crowded parts of Portland and Albany.

What is a Good CC for a First Motorcycle?

Shopping for your first bike and feeling confused about the cc meaning? Engine size ranges from around 300cc on the low end to upwards of 1000cc for high-powered cruiser and touring models. For first-time buyers and new riders, it’s a bit easier to narrow down what is “good” cc for a motorcycle. 

You’ll want something that delivers the full experience—so we recommend looking for bikes with at least 300cc. That said, a bike with more than 600cc may be difficult for new riders to handle. This means you should be looking mainly at lighter models like sport bikes and entry-level models, and not cruiser, touring, or adventure touring models.

CC Meaning for Engines, Explained

As you know, cc meaning and engine size are directly related. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Lightweight— 50cc to 250cc. Although they won’t deliver the classic Harley experience, super-small and light bikes can be a great choice for commuters.
  • Entry-Level — 300cc to 400cc. These affordable, middleweight base-level models are great for new riders.
  • Intermediate — 600cc to 900cc. These models are all-around performers with the versatility to handle both urban settings and long distances.
  • Heavy — 1000cc and up. Heavy cruising, touring, and adventure touring models need more power to move their larger, feature-packed frames and deliver a smooth ride.

Browse New Bikes Online at Timber Town Harley-Davidson

If you have further questions about cc meaning, engine types, and bike categories, our dedicated staff is happy to answer them in detail either over the phone or in person. We’re here to make sure you ride home to Salem on a bike that fits your preferences, experience level, and budget. Our showroom is easy to reach from anywhere in Lebanon, so stop by today!

 

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** H-D® Members earn up to 2,000 bonus points ($20 value) on a purchase of $100+ between September 13, 2024 9 am EDT through September 15, 2024, at 11:59 pm at participating dealers only; H-D ® Membership must be activated at the time of sale. Points apply to a single transaction for eligible purchases of $100+ before tax and after any sales discounts are applied. Promotion good for genuine H-D® and H-D® licensed products only. Usual point restrictions apply. Please allow up to 72 hours for points to appear in your account. Visit bit.ly/HD_points for details.

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