Yes, motorcycles can use wide ratio transmissions. A wide ratio transmission refers to a gearbox that has a broader range of gear ratios, allowing for a wider spread of gears to accommodate different riding conditions and preferences.
In the context of motorcycles, wide ratio transmissions are commonly found in off-road or dual-sport bikes, as well as adventure motorcycles. These types of motorcycles are designed to handle a variety of terrains and riding situations, ranging from low-speed technical trails to high-speed highway cruising.
Wide ratio transmissions typically have a lower first gear for enhanced low-speed torque and better off-road performance, while also providing taller higher gears for smoother highway cruising and improved fuel efficiency. This broader gear range allows riders to effectively handle different riding conditions and achieve the desired balance between power and speed.
On the other hand, some motorcycles, especially sport bikes or those designed for high-performance street riding, may feature close ratio transmissions. These transmissions have a narrower gap between gear ratios, optimizing the gear spacing for quicker acceleration and better performance at higher speeds.