Motorrad
[ˈmoːtoːɐ̯ˌʁaːt]neuter
The German word for motorcycle is Motorrad.
Motorrad is the standard translation for the English word motorcycle, referring to an open-seated motor vehicle with handlebars instead of a steering wheel.
Meaning: open-seated motor vehicle with handlebars instead of a steering wheel (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Motor (motor) and Rad (wheel).
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is neuter, so it uses the definite article das. The plural form of Motorrad is Motorräder.
Did you know?
- While Motorrad is the standard term, you will often hear the slang term Kiste (meaning 'box' or 'crate') used affectionately to describe a well-loved or old motorcycle.
- In many German regions, the word Töff is used to describe a motorcycle or moped, a term particularly common in Switzerland.
- In Germany, a motorcycle driver is often called a Biker using the English word, but this usually refers specifically to someone who rides a heavy cruiser or belongs to a club rather than anyone on a Motorrad.
Examples in context
- Wo ist Ihr Motorrad?Where's your motorcycle?This sentence is useful for asking about someone's Motorrad.Tatoeba #12583196 by Waldelfe, translation #10796406 by CK
- Sein Motorrad ist rot.His motorcycle is red.This sentence is useful for describing the color of a Motorrad.Tatoeba #7357450 by manese, translation #7357047 by sabretou
- Mein Motorrad ist neu.My motorcycle is new.This sentence is useful for describing the age of a Motorrad.Tatoeba #7500241 by Yorwba, translation #5023357 by CarpeLanam
- Entschuldigen Sie, wo kann ich ein Motorrad mieten?Excuse me, where can I rent a motorcycle?
- Diese Maschine ist ein beliebtes Modell unter Motorradfans.This machine is a popular model among motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Lass uns eine Spritztour mit dem Moped machen!Let's go for a joyride on the motorcycle!
- 111 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are standing in a parking lot.
- JuliaIst das dein neues Motorrad?Is that your new motorcycle?
- FelixJa, es ist ein Geschenk.Yes, it is a gift.
- JuliaEs sieht toll aus, Felix.It looks great, Felix.
- FelixDanke, Julia, ich liebe es.Thanks, Julia, I love it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “motorcycle” translations and entries Motorrad, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
