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| For many, motorcycling is a way of life rather than just a mode of transportation. Feeling the wind pass over your face and viewing the scenery from a different perspective is what it is all about. There are many different makes and models of bikes to choose from. Today’s bikes offer a myriad of accessories and features to make your ride even more enjoyable. And don’t worry, bike prices range from very reasonable to over the top. There seems to be a bike to fit everyone’s budgets and tastes. The popularity of motorcycles has steadily increased over the past several decades. As of 2003, at least 24 million individuals in the United States had ridden on a motorcycle at least once. A 2008 rider survey states that 12.4% of riders are female, and that the median rider age is 42. More than half of all U.S. riders are married, and 29% of them have college degrees. These statistics dispel some of the myths and misconceptions that surround motorcycle owners and riders. Back in the day, motorcycle riders were thought of as long-haired and leather-clad hoodlum gang members. Clubs such as the Hell’s Angels and Monguls were the “types” who rode cycles. As of the new millennium, the typical motorcycle owner cannot be stereotyped. Cycle owners today come from every age, income bracket, and social class. These include white-collar workers dubbed as “weekend warriors,” housewives, and college students. Motorcycles offered on the market today range from the affordable at around $2000 to the financing-needed-styles at over $20,000. The most economical option both dollar-wise and environmentally is a scooter. First offered to the public in 1946, Vespa is an alternative mode of transportation comparable to a standard motorcycle—minus the hefty price tag. Vespa’s are smaller and lighter than motorcycles, and they average 70 mpg. It costs roughly 5 cents per mile to operate, compared to a SUV at 24 cents per mile. The advantages to riding a Vespa are all about reduction. They reduce energy consumption, environmental pollution, and traffic congestion. Plus, with their smaller and lighter size, they are often more appealing to female and younger riders. If you are not ready to travel on two wheels but still want the motorcycle experience, there is another option. The Can-am Spyder Roadster has a unique design of two wheels in the front and one rear tire. This technology has been described as part motorcycle and part convertible sports car. Spyder riders comment that they feel more confident on the road with three tires. This confidence comes with a price tag though. Ranging from $16,000 to $18,000, owning a Roadster can be just as costly as owning a car. And just like cars, the Spyder Roadster is available in both manual and semi-automatic transmission models. Another mode of three-wheeled transportation is the Piaggo MP3 hybrid. This “scooter-trike” as it is described, also has two front wheels that are independently suspended. This feature can make it a practical choice for beginner riders and commuters as well. Expected to be for sale in the U.S. by the first quarter of 2010, this plug-in hybrid can run off of a standard charge for 40 miles. It also has a gas-powered generator for extra power at a promised 60 or higher mpg. I think one of the coolest features of the Piaggo is a thumb switch that enables the driver to lock the front end of the cycle upright when at a stop. This means that the trike stays balanced without the driver having to place their feet on the ground. The Piaggo will debut for between $8,000 and $9,000. Harley Davidson is the most synonymous name associated with motorcycles today. Since 1903, partners Harley and Davidson have been producing motorcycles for public sale. The company’s success is based on the motto: “H-D diversity: On the road of life, we all ride together.” Harley Davidson partnered with Buell motorcycles in 1993. This partnership has enabled the company to offer a wide variety of motorcycle styles to buyers. The Buell side offers the sportier “rocket”-style bikes, while the Harley side sells the tried-and-true “chopper” styles. Harley Davidson also caters to female riders with its line of Sportsters. Indian, the first American-made motorcycle, is making a comeback this year. Originally produced in 1901, it has had an interesting history. Production was halted in 1953, and then it resumed again in 1999. The final model year manufactured was 2003—until now. In 2004, business partners Julius and Heese acquired trademark rights and intellectual properties for the Indian and began production again this year. Around the time of World War II, Harley Davidson acquired all military motorcycle contracts. However, the Indian is a substantial motorcycle that some say is of better quality than Harley Davidson. The price tags are similar, so personal preference will be the determining factor in choosing between the two. All bikes, from Vespa’s to Harley’s, offer a large variety of optional accessories, including windshields, CD players, and saddlebags. Driving a motorcycle today can be just as convenient and comfortable as a car. Today, helmets can be purchased with internal microphones and speakers. This lets the driver and passenger converse at normal voice tones rather than screaming into the wind. Many other accessories, especially chrome, can be added to any bike for purely aesthetic purposes. Since 1901, the motorcycle as we know it has come a long way. Today’s bikes are not only a symbol of one’s status, but also a practical and economical means of transportation. Old stereotypes have been broken and are a thing of the past. Anyone can own and ride a motorcycle today. Sources for this story included: www.harley-davidson.com, www.cycleworld.com, and www.engadget.com. |
Riding in Cycle Style |
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