On Yer Bike

Choosing two wheels rather than four is a lot of fun, but there are risks

Welcome to motorcycling. Or should that be ‘welcome back’?

Whether you are new to the world of powered two-wheelers, or returning after a long break, you’re really going to enjoy motorcycling. There’s nothing quite like it.

You can list lots of sensible reasons for getting a motorbike, but the thrill of riding is number one for a lot of bikers. The downside is that statistics show riding a bike is more dangerous than driving a car.

There are 67 fatalities per billion passenger kilometres for motorcycles on Britain’s roads (source: Statista). That compares with just 1.1 deaths per billion passenger kilometres for car travel. So in travelling by bike rather than car, you are choosing a riskier way of getting from A to B.

Of course, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk involved, which we’ll cover in detail throughout this magazine. What’s more, not all the statistics around motorcycle safety make such grim reading. According to the government, between 2004 and 2020 annual motorcycle fatalities reduced from 585 to 285. Serious injuries fell by 48% over the same period. So while motorcycling is more dangerous than driving, it’s getting safer.

For many of us, the advantages of motorcycling outweigh the risks. Commute by bike, and you’ll get to work more quickly. Ask anyone who has swapped four wheels for two and they’ll tell you the same.

You’ll save money, too. With fuel prices at a record high, the efficiency of a motorbike can’t be ignored. A Honda CB125F returns a claimed 145mpg, compared with 42.8mpg for a Honda CR-V hybrid. That’s good for your pocket, and good for the “THE LIST OF REASONS TO CHOOSE TWO WHEELS OVER FOUR IS A LONG ONE. LIKE MOST OF LIFE’S PLEASURES, MOTORBIKES ARE BEST ENJOYED RESPONSIBLY“

environment.

You’ll be quids in when it comes to vehicle tax as well. Even a bike with 600cc or more will cost just £101 per year in tax. A petrol or diesel car costing over £40,000 will set you back £520 per year.

Insurance costs will vary depending on a whole host of factors, but according to Compare the Market, the average motorbike premium is £298 less than the average price of car insurance.

The list of reasons to choose two wheels rather than four is a long one, although there’s no denying the extra risk. Like most of life’s pleasures, motorbikes are best enjoyed responsibly.

ENJOY MORE, SPEND LESS

FUEL BILL FROM LANDS END TO JOHN O’GROATS

BIKE: Honda CB125F

£44.45

CAR: Honda CR-V Hybrid £150.58

VEHICLE TAX (ANNUAL)

BIKE: 600cc motorbike

£101

CAR: £40k+ petrol car

£520

INSURANCE COST (AVERAGE)

BIKE: £390 CAR: £688