High speeds, quick turns, parking availability and an adrenaline rush to fulfill even the most aggressive risk takers are among the top reasons why motorcycles are filling the streets more than ever.
“I just like to go fast and be able to go places without worrying about gas prices,” said Sam Piazza, a senior at Auburn University and motorcycle owner.
The two most common types of motorcycles are “sport bikes” and “cruisers.” In Auburn, sport bikes are seen more regularly than cruisers, but across the nation the ratio is more even.
“I’d say it’s pretty much 50-50 when it comes to sport bikes and cruisers in the U.S.,” said David Fountain, head service technician manager at Honda Suzuki of Opelika. “We have been selling a lot more sport bikes in the last year though.”
The most notable difference between sport bikes and cruisers is the position in which each bike forces the rider to sit. Sport bikes require a hunched over position with feet directly below the rider, while cruisers require more upright seating and feet in front.
“Sport bikes are much more nimble, can take turns better and are more efficient at high speeds than cruisers,” Fountain said. “Cruisers are great for longer road trips where you sit for extended periods of time.”
With the pleasant weather and plenty of open country roads, motorcycles are seen everywhere during the summer, often leading to more car versus bike accidents duing this season.
“Probably between 60 to 70 percent of riders will be in some sort of a fender bender at some point in their lives if they ride long enough,” Fountain said. “I’ve been riding for more than 20 years, and I just got into my first accident 18 months ago.”
A popular saying regarding motorcycles for years has been, “Look twice, save a life. Motorcycles are everywhere.” With statistics such as those that two-wheeled vehicles carry, this slogan cannot be repeated enough.
The most common bike sold at Honda Suzuki is the VTX 1300 Honda Cruiser, which varies in price according to different modification options. Prices range between $3,600 and $25,000.
“Sales are much better this year than they were last year: not great, but a lot better,” said Dan Jordan, sales associate at Honda Suzuki of Opelika.
The male rider is much more common than his female counterpart, Fountain said.
“Most riders on the streets are men,” he said. “Only about 10 percent of riders we know are women.”
Jordan said for those who want to save gas money this summer or are just looking for an adrenaline rush, the hype of two-wheel transportation is worth looking into.
“There is nothing like it in the world,” Jordan said. “The feeling of freedom on a motorcycle is unmatched.”