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Good fuel economy, great performance and low costs are attractive reasons to consider a bike. (http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080514/OPINION03/805140309/1320/AUTO04)

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/2008_Yamaha_Majesty.jpgJohn McCormick - Detroit News - April 14, 2008

2008 Yamaha Majesty – With Fuel Economy estimated at 51 mpg and a powerful 400cc motor, is it any wonder it is the most researched full-sized scooter out there?

Whether its gas prices or the thrill factor, a bike is a lot more fuel efficient than a P/U truck or SUV ;) -- Ed.

The good weather is bringing out Michigan's motorcycle riders in droves but sunny skies are not the only reason to be considering two-wheeled transport.

As gas prices soar, the attractions of commuter-style motorbikes and scooters -- with their excellent fuel economy, maneuverability in traffic and ease of parking -- are becoming evident to more and more consumers.

No longer secondary vehicles

According to the NADA price guide (www.nadaguides.com), interest in motorcycles has risen sharply in recent months.

"Motorcycles have become attractive options as primary vehicles for daily drivers -- due to their fuel efficiency -- and are no longer considered just a luxury, 'secondary-vehicle' purchase," said NADA's Lenny Sims…

As a performance bike owner and occasional race track rider, I can vouch for these machines' unmatched thrill factor. Hard-core sport bikes are not as frugal as commuter and cruiser-style models, but they are still more economical than most cars. And in terms of performance, a top sport bike will not only leave virtually any sports car -- be it a Ferrari, Porsche, Corvette, you name it -- in the dust, but it will do so for a fraction of the cost… http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080514/OPINION03/805140309/1320/AUTO04

In the larger class, the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Standard, Honda Gold Wing Airbag and Yamaha Royal Star Venture are being targeted.

The Gold Wing is a gas hog, relatively speaking, @ 35 mpg.


A narrower, generally more expensive stable of models is available from European brands such as Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, and Triumph. Though most motorcycle manufacturers make a variety of models, from cruisers to dirt bikes, my personal recommendations tend towards the sport bike sector.

My BMW was cheaper than a Harley, has power-assisted anti-lock brakes, something you cannot get on a Harley, has more horsepower, and has a much greater lean angle, an important safety feature if you enter a curve a bit too hot.

Sport bike? My old bones won't tolerate the riding position for very long.

Harry

400cc scooter...better check your states legislation on what a moped/scooter is...under 50cc....yep.

In 5 years we will all be on bikes and scooters, and china will be in 8mpg cars. :Banane10:

I'll keep going in my 4 wheeled scooter, thanks. ;)