Motorcycles Are A Great Way To Save On Rising Gas Prices
You don’t have to watch the local news very long to see a reporter standing outside a gas station, describing the current high gas prices that drivers are currently experiencing across the country. The national average price per gallon for unleaded gas is currently $4.23, with prices expected to move sporadically higher according to CNBC, who predict drivers could pay over $5 or even $6 in the peak of the upcoming summer driving season. These prices are affecting how Americans spend time on the road, including how they ride their motorcycles.
To better understand how high gas prices are impacting bikers, Cycle Trader recently surveyed 2,209 shoppers on their leading motorcycle marketplace. Among the respondents, 35% said that high gas prices have caused them to adjust how they ride. With over 10 million U.S. households that have at least one motorcycle, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council, that would suggest over 3.5 million bikers may currently feel forced to change their riding habits due to high gas prices.
Interestingly, motorcycle riders have adapted their time on the road in different ways, with some actually riding more. In fact, half of those who have made riding adjustments have increased their biking as a fuel-efficient alternative to driving their cars and trucks that require more gas.
Alternatively, among those who have made changes, 34% have decreased how often they ride, cutting down on recreational trips or only going out when necessary. Another 21% said that they have decreased the distances that they ride. Finally, 12% have stopped riding entirely until gas prices go down.
In addition to impacting time and distance on the road, high gas prices have impacted motorcycle owners’ style of biking. Said one rider, “I don’t accelerate as quickly as before and coast more. I’m much more mindful of maximizing MPG as I ride.” Several respondents alo reported that high gas prices were leading them to shop for a new motorcycle, including one participant who said they were “thinking of getting a smaller bike with better fuel economy.”
With several contributing factors, and uncertain international market forecasts, it’s unclear how long prices at the gas pump will remain high. Until they go down, research from Cycle Trader suggests that millions of bikers may be adapting their time on the road, including some riding more to replace their usual car and others decreasing or eliminating their recreational time on the road. Riding styles and bike shopping may also be shifting due to high gas prices.
If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient motorcycle, start your search today & let Jonesboro Cycle be the starting point.