File:Flickr - ronsaunders47 - SPEEDWAY MOTORCYCLE. JAWA ENGINE..jpg

Speedway uses a unique type of motorcycle, governed by the FIM's "Track Racing Technical Rules".[7] In the past, bikes with upright engines were used (the name taken from the way the engine sits in the frame), but today most professional riders use laydown bikes as it is argued that they are easier to handle. As speedway bikes do not use brakes, the clutch is used as a release mechanism at the start of races. FIM regulations state that the motorcycles must have no brakes, are powered by pure methanol, use only one gear and weigh a minimum of 77 kilograms (170 lb). By using engine and rear wheel sprockets the gear ratio can be adjusted as required for track conditions.[7] The use of methanol allows for an increased compression ratio to the engine producing more power than other fuels and resulting in higher speeds (approximately 130 kilometres per hour (81 mph) when cornering).

A dirt deflector fitted to a Speedway motorcycle Machines used must: Weigh no less than 77kg (unfuelled) Use a four-stroke, single cylinder engine with one carburettor and one spark plug and a maximum capacity of 500cc Have guards fitted over moving engine parts where reasonable Use an additional chain guard to prevent a hand or fingers being cut by a chain Have a peg (Dutch Peg) fitted to prevent a broken chain flailing and injuring a rider or a fellow competitor Use shatter resistant plastics where reasonable Be fitted with a dirt deflector Be fuelled by methanol with no additives Be fitted with an approved silencer Have a handlebar width greater than 650mm and less than 850mm. Machines used cannot: Be constructed in any part from Titanium Use uncoated ceramic parts Use telemetry during a race except for timing purposes Use any electronic components to control the engine Use brakes of any form Use supercharger or a turbocharger of any kind.