10 Reasons People Love Owning A Motorcycle & 10 Reasons It Might Not Be Right For You
10 Reasons People Love Owning A Motorcycle & 10 Reasons It Might Not Be Right For You
The Fun And The Fuss
There's something magnetic about two wheels gliding on an open road. However, it's not always as smooth as it looks. While some bikers will let you ride for years without looking back, others give it up within months. Here, we get into what makes motorcycles so rewarding for some people and what might make them the wrong fit for others. Let's start with the pros.
1. Compact Size Makes Narrow Roads Usable
Motorcycles squeeze through tight alleys, side streets, and backroads that cars can't touch. In rural routes, the smaller footprint lets you avoid obstacles and squeeze past blockages. That edge helps when facing unexpected turns from GPS or narrow paths without space to pull over.
2. Fuel Costs Stay Lower Than Most Cars
Since a typical motorcycle gets 50 to 70 mpg, riders enjoy fewer stops and cheaper fill-ups. Daily riders, especially commuters, can save serious money over a year. One person on a 250cc bike can average nearly 200 miles per tank.
3. Parking Is Almost Never A Problem
No more circling for parking spots, as motorcycles fit just about anywhere—on tight curbs or in corner slots. Most city garages charge less for bikes, too. If you live in a dense urban area, this can save you hours every single week.
4. Maintenance Can Be Simple And DIY Friendly
Many motorcycles are built with easy access in mind. Changing oil and cleaning air filters are things you can handle yourself with basic tools. Also, parts tend to be cheaper. Learning basic maintenance can help prevent breakdowns and stretch your bike's lifespan considerably.
5. Riding Builds Confidence And Alertness
Every ride sharpens your senses. You have to scan the road and stay one step ahead. That constant focus builds confidence and discipline over time. In fact, many riding schools treat mental sharpness as essential as physical control during their advanced training sessions.
6. Motorcycle Communities Are Incredibly Tight-Knit
You'll quickly notice how other riders wave, nod, or stop to help. Local rides, charity runs, forums, and group events connect bikers fast. It's not uncommon to meet complete strangers on the road who'll recommend gear or even ride with you for a few miles.
7. Adventure Feels Closer On Two Wheels
You're not separated from the world but right in it. Wind and sun hit differently when you ride, and weekend trips feel like full-on escapes. Riders often describe even familiar roads as feeling brand new once they experience them from a motorcycle.
8. Insurance Is Often More Affordable
Motorcycle insurance usually costs less than car insurance. Smaller bikes and experienced riders get the best rates. Coverage varies by state, but for basic street use, you'll often pay half what you would for a car. That's huge for younger riders on a budget.
9. Motorcycling Feels Like A Mindful Escape
Riding demands full attention—no scrolling, no zoning out. Every corner, shift, and lane change keeps your brain engaged. For many, that mental focus acts like a reset button. It's not about tuning out the world but being 100% present in it.
10. Lane Filtering Saves Time During Heavy Traffic
In states where it's legal, lane filtering lets motorcycles slip between slow or stopped cars. This shaves minutes off commutes and reduces congestion. Riders who know how to do it safely report higher satisfaction with daily traffic than most four-wheel drivers.
Val Kilmer Donadillo on Pexels
It sounds good so far, but let's slow down. For every upside, there's a bump in the road worth knowing.
1. Exposure To Weather Can Be Unforgiving
With no roof or windshield, if the weather turns bad mid-ride, you're stuck dealing with it. Rain affects visibility and road grip, and cold snaps hurt. One needs to gear up for conditions in advance or risk a miserable trip.
2. Protective Gear Adds Extra Expense And Weight
You can't just throw on a T-shirt and go. Helmets, jackets, gloves, pants, and boots are non-negotiable if safety matters. That gear isn't cheap, either. Even an entry-level kit can cost hundreds. Riding light usually means risking more.
3. High Risk Of Serious Injury In Crashes
Motorcycles offer little between you and the pavement. One distracted driver or unexpected turn can lead to severe injury. According to the NHTSA, when a crash happens, motorcyclists are far more likely to lose their lives than car passengers. This stat alone gives some people second thoughts.
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4. Not Ideal For Hauling Passengers Or Gear
When you need to carry groceries or another adult, most motorcycles may fail you. Small saddlebags and tail racks help, but capacity stays tight. Two-up riding also shifts balance and performance. For regular hauling, a touring bike is a better fit.
5. Traffic Visibility Is A Constant Safety Concern
Car drivers often don't see motorcycles, especially at intersections or in blind spots. Even with headlights on and reflective gear, you're easier to miss. That's why experienced riders develop habits like weaving slightly in-lane to stay visible and avoid being boxed in.
6. The Learning Curve Can Be Steep For Beginners
Getting the hang of clutch control and counter-steering takes time. Unlike automatic cars, most bikes require more hands-on coordination. Loss of balance or control at low speeds is common for newbies. Training courses help, but learning the ropes takes more practice than expected.
7. Seasonal Storage Can Be A Hassle
In colder regions, riding year-round isn't always possible. Bikes need proper winterization, like fuel stabilizers and dry storage, to avoid damage. That means you'll need space and time just to store it right. Riders without garages often pay for off-season indoor storage facilities.
8. Long Commutes Can Be Physically Demanding
Riding requires more physical effort than driving. Extended time in the saddle leads to sore wrists, stiff backs, and wind fatigue, especially without a fairing or windshield. Add weather exposure or traffic stress, and even short commutes start to feel like endurance events.
9. Motorcycles Attract More Police Attention
Loud exhausts and speeding stereotypes put riders under the microscope. Even legal moves can draw glances if the bike looks aggressive. Officers may flag bikes more quickly than cars during routine patrols. It doesn't help that helmeted riders are harder to identify on the spot.
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10. Theft Risk Is Higher Than For Most Vehicles
Motorcycles are small, portable, and easy targets. Thieves can lift one into a van in seconds. Even locks and alarms won't stop every attempt. Urban riders, in particular, face higher theft rates and may pay more for insurance.
