Before your teen heads off to college, you’ll want to help them review their transportation options. While cars generally get most of the attention, motorcycles can enter the conversation too. If your student wants a vehicle with two wheels, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons of motorcycle ownership for college students before rushing off to the dealership.
Pro: Easier on the Wallet
College life often requires stretching every dollar, and motorcycles are surprisingly budget-friendly. Most models cost significantly less than cars and they often use less fuel, which is great for students who don’t want to spend their ramen money at the gas station. Maintenance is often cheaper too, unless you’re dealing with things like replacing motorcycle wheels after a rough winter, so remind them to treat with vehicle with respect.
Pro: Convenient Campus Travel
Parking on college campuses is notoriously frustrating. Motorcycles can slide right into tight spaces and usually have more flexible parking options than cars. Your student will appreciate skipping long walks from faraway parking lots when it’s pouring rain or they’ve overslept for class (again). Plus, navigating through campus or busy college-town traffic becomes much easier on a nimble bike.
Pro: A Fun and Adventurous Ride
Let’s face it; motorcycles are fun. There’s a freedom that comes with cruising on a bike, especially after a stressful week of midterms and pop quizzes. Riding a motorcycle is a great stress reliever and a cool way to explore the town or get out into nature. It’s also a social experience—bike communities on campus and online offer connections and shared rides for weekend trips.
Con: Safety and Weather Concerns
Motorcycles don’t offer the same physical protection as cars, which makes them riskier in the event of an accident. If your student goes to school in an area with snow, ice, or heavy rain, riding can quickly go from fun to hazardous. Unlike a car, a bike doesn’t come with a heater or shelter, so getting caught in a storm is more than a minor inconvenience.
Con: Limited Storage and Passenger Options
College students often haul around backpacks, gym gear, groceries, and the occasional pizza box. Motorcycles don’t offer much room for any of that. Additionally, some bikes cannot accommodate passengers, so it may not be the most practical solution for daily life unless your student is riding solo all the time.
In the end, the pros and cons of motorcycle ownership for college students come down to lifestyle, location, and comfort level. With proper safety training and some realistic expectations, a motorcycle could make sense for your college-bound student.
