Translation guide
The most common and natural way to say 'bicycle' in Japanese is 自転車 (じてんしゃ). This covers most everyday situations. There are also specific terms for different types of bikes, but 自転車 is the safe default.
Referring to a standard bicycle for everyday use.
The standard, all-purpose word for 'bicycle'. Use this in almost any context.
私は毎日自転車で通勤しています。
I commute by bicycle every day.
この自転車はとても軽いです。
This bicycle is very light.
Casual slang for 'bicycle', common in everyday conversation among friends.
チャリで行こうよ。
Let's go by bike.
In some contexts, especially among older speakers or in certain regions, バイク can refer to a bicycle, but it usually means 'motorcycle'. Use with caution.
Usually means 'motorcycle'. Only use for 'bicycle' if the context is very clear.
子供の頃、バイクでよく遊んだ。
When I was a kid, I often played with my bike.
Referring to a particular kind of bicycle, such as electric, folding, or road bike.
Electric bicycle (e-bike). Often shortened to 電チャリ in casual speech.
電動自転車は坂道が楽です。
Electric bicycles make hills easy.
Folding bicycle.
折りたたみ自転車を電車に持ち込めますか？
Can I bring a folding bicycle on the train?
Road bike (racing bicycle).
A typical Japanese utility bicycle, often with a basket, used for shopping and errands. Literally 'mom's bike'.
Expressing the action of riding a bicycle.
The standard phrase for 'to ride a bicycle'.
自転車に乗るのが大好きです。
I love riding bicycles.
Literally 'to pedal a bicycle', emphasizing the pedaling action.
一生懸命自転車をこいだ。
I pedaled the bicycle with all my might.
The English word 'bike' can mean either bicycle or motorcycle. In Japanese, バイク usually means motorcycle. Use 自転車 for bicycle to avoid confusion.
On weekends I ride long distances on my road bike.
ママチャリに子供を乗せて買い物に行く。
I go shopping with my child on the mamachari.