But what makes them so unique? And what sets them apart from “underbone” motorcycles?
In this blog post, you’ll discover:
- Underbone vs. backbone motorcycles – definitions & differences
- What sets an underbone motorcycle apart from a scooter
Prefer to get this information in podcast form? Listen to the 30 Minute Motorcycling Podcast episode about underbone motorcycles:
What’s an Underbone Motorcycle?
It’s no wonder why these bikes are common in Southeast Asian countries, where it’s not rare to see 3 or more people riding together on a single two-wheeler (something I call “riding Vietnam-style”).
Some other names for underbones include:
- “Motor bebek” (Indonesia)
- “Kap Cai” (Malaysia & Singapore)
- “Papi/Papaki” (Greece)
The transmission of underbones is also interesting.
Often, they have semi-automatic gearboxes, where you still shift through the gears with a regular floor shifter, even though there’s no clutch lever.
The engine is positioned between the rider’s feet while the fuel tank is under the seat (since underbones have no backbone frame where the engine is usually mounted).
As an example, take a look at the 2004 Suzuki FX125 pictured below without covers:
The Honda Super Cub (AKA The Honda 50) is probably the most well-known underbone motorcycle. Some other examples of underbones include:
- Honda Wave
- SYM VF3i
- MCX Raptor (Philipines)
Underbone motorcycles vs. Scooters
With that in mind, there are some differences between the two.
For example, scooters tend to have their engines near the rear wheel, unlike underbones.
Underbones also have bigger wheels than scooters, so their engines are mounted where they are.
But the most significant difference is that underbone motorcycles use semi-automatic gearboxes, while scooters generally rely on a CVT transmission for that “twist and go” feel.
Underbone Motorcycles vs. Scooters – More Info:
What’s a Backbone Motorcycle?
As the name implies, backbone motorcycles have frames that act as their “spines” and hold all crucial components, such as the engine.
Therefore, a backbone frame is easy to build and is cheaper than an underbone frame. But there’s a catch.
While backbone frames are cheaper to build, they’re not as robust.
Because of this are, therefore, mainly found on cheap and small displacement motorcycles.
Underbone vs. backbone motorcycles – In Summary
- Large wheels
- Engines mounted near the rider’s footpegs
- Semi-automatic gearboxes
The frame of an underbone is a solid design capable of fitting several people.
Meanwhile, backbone motorcycles have:
- A spine-like frame that holds the engine, among other things
The frame for backbone motorcycles is easier and cheaper to build – although it’s not as strong as its underbone counterpart.
