Two wheels or four? Consider a used car as extra transportation
Many a motorcycle enthusiast will agree: motorcycling offers freedom, speed and connection with the environment. The motorcycle is seen not only as a means of transportation, but also as a beloved hobby. Yet sooner or later, dedicated riders face some well-known dilemmas, such as the change to colder weather and practical obligations.
Four wheels for the winter months
Motorcycling is a popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands, as evidenced by more than 1.5 million CBS-registered motorcycles in 2024. Nevertheless, the need for a reliable alternative in certain situations can no longer be denied. Especially in the autumn and winter months, the number of active motorcyclists is drastically lower. When the motorcycle is put in winter storage, more and more Dutch people choose a car as a solid backup. Used cars are especially popular.
A used car offers an appropriate solution for times when engines are less reliable. Think, for example, of slippery road surfaces and bad weather. In the first quarter of 2025, more than 500,000 used cars already changed hands, according to Bovag and RDC. For motorcycle enthusiasts, an occasion car is an affordable way of extra mobility, without compromising on freedom. Compact, sporty models are especially popular among motorcyclists.
The practical advantages of a car
Even with the arrival of beautiful, brand-new models like the Suzuki GSX-8T and GSX-8TT, some situations do require more space and comfort. Carrying passengers and luggage, heavy shopping and long drives are some examples of times when a car comes in handy. The comfort of a car can also come in handy for work-related obligations. Although motorcycling is cheaper in road tax and fuel consumption, unexpected maintenance costs and seasonal restrictions can run high without alternative transportation.
Hybrid mobility
Fortunately, there is no need to make an immediate choice between two or four wheels. The trend among motorcycle enthusiasts is leaning more and more toward hybrid mobility. Almost 1 in 3 motorcyclists in the Netherlands chooses to keep a car behind them. The biggest driver behind this is practicality. The motorcycle is used for adventure, where the car provides functionality.
Choosing the right backup car
When choosing a suitable backup car, it is important to identify your personal needs and expectations. Are you looking for a robust car that is especially practical during the cold months? Then orient yourself especially to compact SUVs. If you mainly drive short distances within the city, an economical city car may suit your needs better. Vintage cars are also popular with motorcyclists; some used cars match certain motorcycle styles seamlessly.
When buying a used car, transparency is essential. Always consult the maintenance history, mileage and the amount of previous owners. Red flags include unclear history and an odometer reading that does not match the occasion’s signs of use.
So you certainly don’t have to give up your passion for motorcycling to make smart mobility choices. Having a used car as a backup in certain situations and weather conditions offers flexibility. Opt for hybrid mobility so that you can get safe miles in any season.