Switching to motorcycles as a motorist: why and why not?

Motorcyclists are a stroke apart. Most of us car drivers are not that attracted to it, but there has to be a reason why some people choose to take the motorcycle instead of the car. It might even be something for you, too. We discuss why you shouldn’t want to ride a motorcycle as a motorist, but also why you might want to.

Why not?

To get right to the point: percentage-wise, many more accidents happen to motorcycles than to cars, and mostly with serious consequences: there is up to eighteen times more chance of a fatal accident per kilometer driven compared to the car. As a motorcyclist, you don’t just suffer some eye damage in an accident, and the chances of more serious injuries are higher. Fortunately, motorcycle helmets ensure that the head is well protected, otherwise the statistics would be even more dramatic. In addition, of course, as a motorcyclist, you are at the mercy of the elements. You don’t just turn up the heat, turn on the air conditioner or the windshield wipers. Driving a car is simply more comfortable. Also because you can carry a lot more luggage in a car.

Why is that?

The above may make you ask yourself why people would want to ride motorcycles at all. There are really some good reasons for that. First of all, you really get the ultimate riding experience on the motorcycle because you fully feel and experience everything. In addition, as a motorcyclist, you spend much less time in traffic jams because you are allowed to pass in between (albeit at low speed). Also, motorcycling is generally fairly affordable. A reliable beginner motorcycle costs a whole lot less than a reliable car. Insurance and road tax will also cost you a lot less than for the car. Of course, you still need to buy a good motorcycle outfit with a good motorcycle helmet to protect yourself, but even then you will be cheaper than if you want to buy a decent car. Another good reason to ride a motorcycle anyway is that there is something to be said for the fact that it also makes you a better motorist. That very vulnerability helps you learn to anticipate better and be more aware of traffic, and those are valuable experiences to take with you when you get back in the car.

So there are good reasons not to do it, but certainly plausible reasons to give it a chance anyway. In the end, it mainly depends on how adventurous you are and whether you are open to a new challenge. Who knows, you might fall in love with motorcycling altogether.