Two wheels suit students' wallets
Nicole Ellis
Mesa Legend
With rising gas prices, motorcycles are becoming more popular in the college crowd.
From Harley-Davidson to Indian, and Honda to Suzuki, there is a wide range to choose from.
As of August 2004, there were almost 10,000 motorcycles registered with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department. More than half of them are in Maricopa Country alone.
“My Honda RD51 cost me about twelve grand, but of course I went for the accessories, which racked it up to 15,” student Mike Richter said. Richter uses his motorcycle as a secondary vehicle and only drives it on the weekend.
The average cost of a new old-school motorcycle like a Harley, Chopper, or Indian, is about $10,000, while a new sports bike like a Honda or Suzuki runs about $8,000. Of course, that does not include the helmet, jacket, and other accessories.
“I prefer to drive my family’s Harley, because I don’t have to fork up $40 to fill it up,” Trevor Brown said in regards to the rising gas prices. Unlike SUVs, motorcycles are not big gas guzzlers, so most college students are able to afford driving it.
Most motorcycles can reach up to speeds of 120 mph. With this high speed vehicle, there is a high accident rate for motorcyclists. According to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department, there were about 2,300 accidents involving motorcyclists in 2003, 100 which resulted in fatalities.
“I will be driving down the freeway, and I see a guy without a helmet on, riding his motorcycle at about 75 mph, that’s ridiculous,” said Ana Forbes. Arizona does not have a written helmet law for motorcyclists.
“My dad bought a Harley when he hit 50, but he never drives it, so I get to take it out. Bikes aren’t just for a midlife crisis anymore.” Justin Koan said.
Whether it is a sport bike or a big Hog, motorcycles are becoming the new thing.
Back to Top
| Previous Page | Home
|
