how loud is
How Loud Is a Motorcycle? 80–110 dBA Guide
NIDCD uses 80–110 dBA as an illustrative range for motorcycles and dirt bikes. NIDCD reference. Rider exposure is a different question: a 1989 occupational study reported sample equivalent levels of 63–90 dBA in town and up to 105 dBA on the open road under its own test conditions. Neither source predicts a modern rider’s at-ear level from a parked roadside reading. Original rider study.
Swipe to see the full table →
| Reference | Reported level | Context |
|---|---|---|
| NIDCD motorcycles/dirt-bike example | 80–110 dBA | Broad public-guide illustration |
| 1989 occupational riding study: town | 63–90 dBA | Sample equivalent levels under the study’s route/equipment conditions |
| Same study: open road | Up to 105 dBA | Historical rider measurements, not a modern helmet guarantee |
| Stationary browser observation | Measure at a documented position | Cannot establish moving rider exposure |
Identify which measurement you mean
For a stationary or pass-by figure, the operating condition, microphone position and test procedure matter. For a rider, the relevant sound includes what reaches the ears during the ride. A loud exhaust near a stationary phone is not a complete measure of that exposure. Write down whether your question concerns equipment condition, a community complaint or your own ride. Each calls for a different observation. For a legal vehicle test, use the applicable local method and equipment rather than improvising a browser-based substitute.
Wind makes this a special microphone problem
Motorcycle research has specifically investigated wind noise and helmet-related exposure. A published helmet study cautions that its laboratory attenuation measurements did not include noise generated by turbulent wind around the helmet. That limitation matters: an impact-protection helmet should not be treated as a certified hearing protector based on a general sound test. Do not insert or attach a phone in a way that changes helmet fit or safety. Original helmet attenuation study.
Do not operate a meter while riding
A moving motorcycle is not an appropriate place to manipulate a browser, inspect a graph or make calibration adjustments. Set up any legitimate specialist measurement through a qualified person and appropriate equipment. For an ordinary browser comparison, remain stationary in a safe location with the motorcycle secured and follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions. Avoid confined spaces, exhaust exposure and unnecessary engine revving. The purpose of the measurement is to answer a practical sound question, not to recreate the loudest possible operating condition.
Compare observations that share a method
Use the same device, weighting, location and operating state for a simple before-and-after check. Record nearby walls and other sound sources. A change in distance can change the result without any change in the motorcycle itself. Do not compare a declared vehicle test figure directly with a casual reading at a different position. Similarly, a passing maximum and an average over several minutes describe different parts of the event. Keep both the number and the observation method in any note you share.
A video soundtrack is another unsuitable comparison: the recording device, editing and playback volume change what a viewer hears. Use the original measurement method and context when evaluating a claim, rather than judging exhaust loudness from how a clip sounds on a different device.
Consider the whole period of riding
For exposure, duration belongs alongside level. A short trip, a long commute and repeated riding as part of work are different patterns. Rest stops and other noisy activities also belong in a complete account. Historical motorcyclist studies used dedicated equipment and defined routes; their results are evidence that the problem deserves proper measurement, not a universal level for today’s helmets and motorcycles. An occupational study’s then-current exposure comparison should not be imported as a present personal safety rule. Original rider exposure study.
Separate protection choices from a phone colour
NIDCD includes motorcycle riding among activities where hearing protection may be relevant. Choose equipment consistent with riding safety and applicable local requirements, and follow its fitting instructions. A lower phone reading beside a parked motorcycle cannot establish protection at your ears on a road. Nor does a generic subtraction of a labelled rating from a browser number establish the remaining exposure. If you ride for work, involve the employer’s occupational assessment rather than relying on a consumer app. NIDCD hearing protectors.
Save information that supports a better assessment
Record the motorcycle, the reason for measuring, whether the observation was stationary or pass-by, the position and approximate operating condition, and the instrument limitations. If you later obtain specialist in-helmet data, keep that in a separate record so nobody confuses it with the stationary test. A dose calculator can illustrate the consequences of a known level over time; it cannot infer that level from engine size, helmet brand, exhaust appearance or how loud a video sounds on someone else’s speakers.
Sources
Phone and browser readings are estimates. For formal decisions, use the specified equipment and procedure; see the accuracy notes.
Try the next check
Noise dose calculator can help with this question. See the matching dB Pulse feature.