Many potential riders contemplate purchasing a bike but never get around to it because they don’t see it as a good investment. However, others take the time to explore the pros and cons of owning a bike and decide buying one is an excellent investment. So, why did they make that decision?

 

Cars are Expensive

 

According to an industry watchdog, the average cost of a new car in November of 2022 was over $48,000. New trucks and SUVs also saw substantial price increases since the start of the pandemic, pricing many buyers out of the market. Even used vehicle shoppers face prices that make purchasing any vehicle difficult for average buyers.

 

In addition to the initial cost involved, maintenance, fuel, and insurance costs continue to increase, which means the overall cost of ownership is also climbing. While some of the price increase is due to issues like chip shortages, wages, transportation, and the cost of raw materials, all contribute to higher vehicle prices. Those expenses are not expected to come down anytime soon, which means seeking alternatives to cars, SUVs, and light trucks is a must for many people.

 

In all fairness, the costs of motorcycles are also experiencing an upward trend, but those increases are a fraction of the increases seen for cars. That means investing in new or pre-owned motorcycles is a reasonable alternative for many people needing transportation. However, finding the best bike often takes time. Working with a reliable dealer is generally the best way to find quality bikes at reasonable prices.

 

Motorcycle Fuel Costs are Low

 

In most cases, motorcycles are easier on gas than their four-wheeled counterparts. Larger bikes get between 30 and 50 miles per gallon, with smaller bikes often surpassing that figure. That means motorcycle riders spend far less over the course of a year on fuel than they would if driving a car or light truck. While some hybrid or fully electric vehicles may see the same or even better mileage equivalents, those vehicles tend to be very expensive.

 

A recent government survey documented the average fuel economy according to the class of vehicle. Those figures show that the average mileage for motorcycles is 44 miles per gallon, while cars average only 24 miles per gallon. Light trucks come in at roughly 17 miles per gallon. That means riders can reduce their fuel expenses significantly by shunning cars and light trucks.

 

Motorcycles Don’t Need a Garage

 

Storing cars, SUVs, and light trucks indoors requires investing in a large garage, and many people are forced to leave their cars on the street. Unprotected vehicles are subject to damage from the weather and are more likely to be stolen or vandalized. While insurance covers theft and weather-related damage, the deductibles must be met, and rates are likely to increase after a claim is filed.

 

On the other hand, motorcycles fit into small sheds that are far less expensive than a garage. Bikes stored in sheds are rarely bothered by anyone, and they are unlikely to suffer any weather-related damage. Of course, some riders are forced to park their bikes on the street, especially in densely populated urban areas. However, inexpensive covers that offer significant protection are readily available, which reduces the odds of vandalism or damage. While bikes parked on the street are still subject to theft, removing a cover takes time, and most thieves move on if stealing a specific bike takes too much time.

 

Maintenance Costs of Motorcycles vs. Cars

 

Some bike owners argue that maintenance costs for motorcycles are higher per mile than cars, but that depends on the type of bike, where and how an owner rides their bike, and how much minor maintenance the owner is willing to do. Many of today’s motorcycles include high-tech options that are expensive to maintain or replace, but other bikes are relatively simple and experience fewer issues.

 

In addition, many riders are willing to take on minor maintenance chores themselves, which significantly reduces those maintenance costs. Labor costs are high at all maintenance shops, which means any vehicle owner will experience significant expenses if they take their car or bike to the shop for every issue. When deciding whether to invest in a motorcycle, evaluate your mechanical skills to determine if completing minor maintenance at home is practical.

 

Consider Depreciation

 

All vehicles depreciate significantly as soon as they’re driven (or ridden) off the dealer’s lot. Bikes tend to depreciate slightly faster for the first couple of years, but the depreciation rate drops quickly after that point. In other words, riders who keep their bikes for several years see minimal depreciation after the first couple of years of ownership.

 

Over the past couple of years, cars and trucks saw little depreciation due to new vehicle inventory shortages. In fact, many vehicles increased in value. However, that’s a short-term phenomenon that is unlikely to persist. Auto prices are expected to normalize as the current supply chain issues resolve themselves. At that point, four-wheeled vehicle owners are expected to see more normal depreciation rates. That means, at the end of five or six years, larger vehicles will likely see a higher depreciation rate than bikes. However, no one can make any guarantees at this point.

 

Factor Convenience into the Equation

 

Another factor worth considering when deciding if a bike is a good investment is convenience. Driving a car or light truck means owners must fight traffic and hunt for good parking spots. Bikes are also impacted by heavy traffic, but they are far more agile than cars, which means riders generally find commuting on a bike less stressful. Once the destination is reached, bike parking is usually easier to find, as they don’t require a full spot. That’s why many riders park in those small areas at the end of rows or share a space with other bikes.

 

Explore the Mental and Physical Benefits of Riding

 

Safety experts routinely agree that bike riders pay more attention when on the road than car and truck drivers do. Bikers are unlikely to be drinking coffee, eating a donut, or talking on their cell phone while riding. That can’t be said about car and truck drivers, who routinely engage in distracting activities while driving.

 

Some studies suggest riding a motorcycle improves a rider’s cognitive functions because riders are forced to pay close attention to their surroundings and make countless decisions car drivers don’t need to consider. That’s a significant advantage as riders age, as they’re less likely to experience negative changes in their brain activity.

 

Riders also experience physical advantages over four-wheel vehicle drivers. Riding requires using muscles that aren’t exercised when driving a car. While the physical advantages vary based on the type of bike and the riding conditions, most riders see improved muscle strength and burn more calories than drivers of larger vehicles.

 

Finally, don’t forget the fun factor. Riding a bike provides an experience totally unlike anything a car driver ever sees. The feeling of freedom is exhilarating, and riders everywhere love being out on a warm, sunny day. Even riding in less-than-optimal conditions can be fun when the rider is prepared for the weather.

 

Be Prepared for the Downsides of Riding

 

While riding a motorcycle is exciting and enjoyable, there are downsides to consider. At the top of the “con” list is the inherent danger involved when riding a bike. Motorcycles are smaller and lighter than cars or trucks, which means riders are more vulnerable to injuries if they’re involved in an accident. However, riders can take precautions to mitigate some of those dangers.

 

First, every safety expert recommends wearing a helmet, as head injuries are a leading cause of serious or fatal injuries for motorcycle riders if they’re in an accident. Helmet designs vary according to the type of riding, so ask an expert for help when selecting a helmet to ensure the highest level of safety.

 

Wearing the proper clothing is also a must when riding. Forget the shorts and sandals when riding. They leave too much skin subject to injury if a rider falls. All the gear all the time is a common saying among safety-conscious riders, as protective clothing reduces the odds of injuries in the event of a mishap. Proper gear includes pants and jackets produced using leather or ballistic fabrics. Quality gloves are also a must to protect your hands. Most riders also choose footwear that’s designed to protect their feet and ankles.

 

Seek Expert Advice When Investing in a Motorcycle

 

Before purchasing a new or used bike, discuss your riding objectives with an expert. Dealers usually have trained and experienced riders on hand to help new or experienced riders select the best bike for their needs. Bikes must “fit” the rider, so make sure you’re comfortable on a bike before signing on the dotted line.

 

Purchasing a bike is an investment and should be treated as such. That means doing the appropriate research and asking questions to ensure the bike you purchase will match your skill level, riding needs, and budget.