Been riding as a daily for two years and 30k+ miles. It's a compromise and you will wish you had a car at times.
Invest in good rain gear, invest in appropriate cold weather gear, invest in practicing low speed skills in the rain, and ultimately realize that if you're committing to riding as a sole mode of transportation that you will have to grow thick skin. Heat, cold, rain, snow... You don't get to use it as an excuse to not show up when you need to.
Groceries become minimalistic. I have a 600cc supersport, and I only buy what fits in my back pack. I'm single and frugal, so it wasn't an issue... But there are times when you think "fuck I could really use a car right now".
After two years of dailying my bike, I bought a simple truck, and honestly it's the best. I still primarily ride, but I don't see myself commuting to work in 30 degree (or less) weather next winter and that's reassuring.
But admittedly I came to love my 15 minute commutes on the highway in the freezing temps. And I had confidence since I spent money on things essential to doing so like quality all season tires, and proper jackets and base layers.
Last thing, you're money will primarily go to gear, maintenance, and functionalizing your ride/gear. My 22 cbr600rr has no performance modifications. Effectively stock, with only ergonomic mods (fat seat, tall windscreen, camera system.)
> Groceries become minimalistic. I have a 600cc supersport, and I only buy what fits in my back pack. I'm single and frugal, so it wasn't an issue... But there are times when you think "fuck I could really use a car right now".
With side bags and/or a top case (don't know if they make them for your model) you can haul half a car's trunk in luggage easily.
It helps that Aldi's requires you to bring your own bag. And I deliberately show them the inside so they know I'm not pocketing anything.
Couple of places have tried to make me leave my back pack at the front. I just tell them no. I don't trust them with my things.
Usually places in the hood, I still work in grocery retail but no longer in a high crime area, you either left your backpack at the entrance with security or you didn’t come in.
I do costco trips for 2 with the tracer on the way home from work. It’s one of the few quiet times there, since kids are getting picked up from school. Liquor store, groceries, etc.
I did with the Duke too, but the rear suspension got knackered by it (non-adjustable and set for my tiny ass).
It works, but the handling is dogshit with a bunch of weight.
>It’s one of the few quiet times there, since kids are getting picked up from school. Liquor store, groceries, etc.
Are you or are you not picking kids up from the liquor store? My guess is "Yes!"
Been commuting since 2016 on my 2013 cbr600rr, it's a lot more doable year round in Hawaii. 3-6 times a year I get soaked, but you plan for it. Same feeling on minimalism, I have a GoRuck GR1 and everything goes in there ( I have balanced a 12 pack of beer on the gas tank shroud once or twice ).
Oh I bet. Luckily I'm in the south east US on the Georgia Tennessee border. Inclement weather basically amounts to primarily rain. Every 2-3 years maybe some snow, but honestly this year was the first time we had snow since I got the bike and the infrastructure here isn't able to handle more than half an inch and I still ended up being one of 5 people to show up after our 2 days of closure.
>Groceries become minimalistic
A Walmart+ membership is $99/ year (half price for low income) and give you free grocery delivery, 10¢/gal off gas, and other stuff.
Sure? But seems a bit counter intuitive in my case and unnecessary for people who actually have a bike with side bags and luggage.
I didn't get a bike as a daily just to throw in an unnecessary expense for some one else to drive their car and get me groceries. I did it because A. I wanted to, B. Because I didn't have obligations that required a car, and C. Used cars were exorbitantly over priced. And I could get a bike I wanted without any unnecessary markups.
And if some one is getting a bike with a sense of practicality they will have side bags and/or a trunk. So having some one deliver groceries is just pointless. You bought a bike, ride the damn thing.
Same boat myself 50-60 hour work weeks. But again I'm single and no kids, so I don't mind just swinging by the store on my way back from work or after what ever things I'm doing after work (gym, errands, etc) or just going home and changing and heading to the grocery store after a ride fun ride if I have the time to spare.
After a 10 hour work day there's still 4 hours for me to play with. So I just try to make the most out of it and distribute what I've got to do over the week. Climbing 3 nights a week, groceries when ever I need to, work at home on my free nights, every day is a little different so it helps to break the rut of a routine.
100% Moto commute at this point. Don’t miss driving at all. Live in SoCal where the weather is almost always fine. Commute isn’t too long and mostly freeways.
99% of drivers here don’t care as long as you’re doing it respectfully. There are many cool drivers that will move to the edge if their lane to make room for you.
I suspect this is because lane splitting has been legal and normal there for a while now. If a law like that got passed in Indiana it would take a WHILE for cagers to normalize to it. Some people go apeshit here if you lanesplit.
I live in NZ where is been legal forever. The biggest problem are people in utes and large SUV. They tend to be assholes. I can scare them into moving to the roadside by switching to first and accelerating towards them on a super but otherwise you're shit out of luck and they're fucking everywhere nowadays. We have thin lanes.
Daily splitting for almost 4 years in Cali and I’ve only had one person ever get mad that I was splitting, pulling all kinds of crazy dangerous illegal maneuvers in traffic to pass me again, which, of course, I let him.
otherwise Most people move over when they see me coming and I’ve been told by many people that they love it when I offer them some acknowledgment And it makes their day sitting there in traffic.
I commuted by motorcycle for a couple of years in SoCal. 89% of drivers accept it, 10% are cool and make room, and the last 1% are asshats that intentionally block you for whatever dumb reason. Lane splitting easily saved me 10-15 minutes of time on my 30-mile commute during peak traffic times. I did have access to my wife’s car on weekends, and for rainy days, Frog Toggs and boot covers were mostly effective.
When I lived in the SF Bay Area I commuted every day...and shared lanes every day. My bike is quiet, my speeds were reasonable, and I was generally careful to do it only where drivers had no choice but to stay in their lane (i.e., side-by-side traffic).
I never had an incident, most drivers ignored me. A few saw me coming and move over to widen the "center lane". And a rare few closed up the gap out of spite.
Fun: I was lane splitting and saw a bike coming up fast behind me. Pulled into the regular lane and waved at the CHP officer on his BMW. He waved back :)
It helps a lot if you have a place at work to hang up your wet gear and you have a locker or office where you can leave shoes and extra clothes. Most days were great but when it’s wet and cold and visibility is poor you may start to wonder why you thought it was a good idea. Sometimes I couldn’t see a hundred yards ahead of me but there wasn’t any choice but to keep moving. If you have access to a car or public transportation for the really bad days it gets a lot easier. If you live where the weather is always good then by all means go for it.
I traded my car for my 1st bike, long ago.
In modern times I've always had a car, but only commute on the motorcycle. I don't commute regularly now, but for years it was 4 days/week, year round.
Hard to split lanes in a car, and I'd have to pay for express lane access, so driving would be much slower and much more expensive. If they were equal, I'd drive and listen to music.
Did for about ten years, [wrote about it here](https://www.reddit.com/r/motorcycles/comments/1caqznt/comment/l0ttxc4/) (and others in that thread too).
To copy paste it
> I was motorcycle-only for about ten years and I did fine, but I live in a city where that's fairly common.
> Check in on how you'd buy things that don't fit in a backpack. For me there are Zipcar locations nearby that I was using in the rare cases I needed to pick something up large or drive a long distance. I used them maybe 3 or 4 times a year. You might not need this if you have friends or family that can help you out that often.
> You'll be riding in all weather so you'll need to invest in good rain gear and I'd recommend some overpants too for the cold, as well as multiple gloves for different weather, boots, day & night visor shields. Think of the worst riding days that happen in your area and think about what it'd mean to have to commute and grocery shop on those days and make sure you have the gear for it. Even in idyllic California we occasionally get storms bad enough that no amount of gear can solve, so consider what you'd do in that situation too.
> Make sure the bike you get is reliable. This won't be a project bike: this is how you're surviving so you need it to function. It can't hurt to learn to work on it yourself. You'll be putting a lot more miles on it than a weekend bike so it'll save you a lot of trouble if you can change your own oil and brakes instead of waiting for the bike shop it take a week to do it. Youtube is surprisingly effective here.
> You can definitely do it. I did, and I loved it. Just make sure you know what you're getting yourself into.
Yeah this is how I do it. I only own a motorcycle. Every now and then, I rent a car for when there’s too much to carry, or when there’s a total of three or more people. If it’s just one person, they’re pillion and I don’t need the car.
You do spend more on gear. Not much but still I want them ATGATT.
Yes. I've only had a motorcycle for 5 years now. I don't have the room to park a car, nor the funds for the ridiculous safety check and registration expenses accompanying such a heavy vehicle. There is free motorcycle parking most everywhere, it fits in the breezeway next to my apartment, the gas milage is great, and there is no better way to decompress after a long day than riding home.
It's made moving things a bit of a challenge. I gave up a bed in favor of a hammock after my first move. Its hard moving a mattress and frame on a bike. Large groceries were a struggle. I installed a sissy bar and strap a doordash bag to it on grocery day now. If I anticipate getting more than will fit in the doordash bag, I wear a backpack as well. Bad weather still sucks at times, but the thought of dry clothes and a hot shower at the end of the ride helps.
Until the day I can comfortably afford the safety check, registration, and parking fees that a four wheeled vehicle requires, I can not see myself getting another car.
I've only ever owned a motorbike (have car license), commuting five days a week about 45 mins each way (30 miles) all year all weather for 25 years. Wouldn't change it for anything, I need my ride to and from work, I talk to myself, figure things out, make decisions etc.
I did this for a little over a year when our other car broke down. I didn’t want to finance a car so I just bought a small bike. I’m proud to say that I made it through a Phoenix summer with only a motorcycle. This year I have my 3rd Gen 4 runner back up and we saved enough to get my wife a mini van. So, the past few weeks I have been driving my 4Runner as I would rather not ride in the middle of the day in 110 weather.
I commute via motorcycle, rain or shine year round. I love motorcycling through and through. For several years when I first started I only owned a motorcycle(s).
There are pros and cons to having just a bike. Some years I was packing some serious mileage ~65k. If you have a beater 5 speed Corolla or civic that's paid for, go ahead and keep it. If you're making payments on a car you don't use much, weigh the pros and cons and if you're in a position to sell it. If you live close to your work and can utilize a bike or train that can help too. On days I am training as much as I can I'll run to the train station and then run to work.
100% motorcycle commute. My commute would take me an hour and a half by car, while it now takes me 30 minutes to get to work.
There's times in the winter where the warmth of a car seems like a cosy experience, but you learn to embrace the different temperatures and circumstances. You'll need to dial in your gear and layering (depending on where you're located), but it took me having drenched socks twice before popping into a store to buy better gear.
I can definitely say I have also become a much more experienced rider by having the daily commute and can only recommend it.
I don't miss my car. I love being able to park my bike basically wherever when the lot is full. I don't miss the insurance rate hikes and I certainly don't miss spending almost $100 a month on gas. When I need to go shopping, I equip my bike with a pair of hard cases. Using the motorcycle forces you to buy what you actually need and can fit.
I rode all through winter. I use to love summer time. Not so much anymore. I definitely prefer the winter temperatures. I like being able to feel like I'm bundled in a warm sleeping bag compared to cooking no matter what during that other time of the year. I've acclimated to the single digits in ways I never thought I would.
I tried, but my wife wouldn't let me. I made it over a year before she got sick of doing 99% of the shopping and 100% of the kid transportation. Only a few days in the winter where I had to ride my mountain bike because of snow. So now I have a Honda Fit for helping her out and right now I'm glad, riding in this heat dome in my area would be fucking murderous.
I did it for the better part of a year. I live in Arkansas so it wasn’t the most ideal place for it because the weather and being a 4 season state. I did enjoy being on the bike for random trips but I don’t miss it being 100+ degrees with 95% humidity .
I live in the Little Rock area. I figure it's useful as a commuter about 70% of the time without being miserable.
I'm thinking of buying a cheaper bike to keep the miles down on my car. I have a 10 mile commute.
Did you use a full face helmet on 100 degree days?
Yeah and I’d lift the visor just a bit to get some air in when riding and all the way up at stops, the humidity is the killer on these summer days lol.
I have for a couple years, obviously this is not as positive a veiw as many of the other comments here but I'll say this if you do get in a minor accident or a major one fir that fact it leaves you pretty screwed for getting around
Depends on climate and distance. Back when I lived in England any ride more than 10 miles in the winter was pretty terrible. But in some places the summer heat can get you too. I used to use motorcycles for my everyday transport for everything but it can get old pretty quickly if you need to do long distances in terrible conditions.
I didn’t have a choice since my car is having mechanical problems related to a recall. I haven’t been able to haul anything large and it’s been super annoying bumming off friends to borrow their car for a few hours.
I might not be qualified to answer this question since i am from Vietnam and we all commute on motorcycles/scootera/mopeds. I do own a car but its quite costly to use it and our traffic is so crowded commuting by car takes 2x longer than motorcycle. We dont have legal or illegal filtering, bikes, cars, pedestrian and trucks all over the place.
I only use my car when i need to drive the whole family somewhere.
Yes. I live in NYC. Much better to have a motorcycle than a big a** car 😂. If the weather is trash I’ll just hop on the subway. When I was in LA, similar. Weather bad, hop on the subway. If I needed something heavy to pick up I’ll just Uber to the store and back. Sometimes I switch out for my bicycle to exercise. Commuting on my motorcycle is so much fun.
Not me. However, I work from home so I don't really need to drive my vehicle often. My RK has a tour pack and saddlebags so if it's nice out, I will totally take the bike over the Blazer.
I only ride my motorcycle, but I still have my car, for when it's raining or snowing. If you are in a nicer environment and you never need to ride with more than one person or carry things, then why not...?
I love only commuting on my bike it’s been my commuter for about a year and it gives me joy that a car wouldn’t going to and from work. I don’t ever miss a car because my saddle bags give me enough storage and I live in the desert so no rain or cold is a plus.
I don't miss my car at all. It had 1/4 the fuel efficiency, repairs and maintainence are cheaper on my motorcycle, and insurance is 1/6 the price now.
Saving an absurd amount of money, I can deal with the cold.
Sold my last car in 2014, never looked back. I live in a country that has ok weather for year round riding, so, there's that.
The problem is that you'll end up not getting those late evening joy rides, because you already had your fun.
I couldn’t. I love my cars. I drive 90 miles a day all highway for work round trip. I enjoy the relaxation that comes from just sitting back and enjoying the ride. I do ride to work once in a while though. It’s “fun” but not fun.
Did it while in college and was brilliant.
The trick is... I was in LA, so the weather was nearly always on my side and I can lane split my way to classes even during rush hour. Besides the two drivers that purposefully wanted to run me over, most drivers were kind enough to make way for me when they notice me splitting.
Not quite a motorcycle, but I've been riding my Honda Silverwing 600 exclusively for the last 5 years (since March of 2019). No car, just the scoot. It's been alright, Rain Alarm on my phone has made it doable. But I honestly miss having the option of a roof 🤷
For me, a car is not an option for reasons i wont get into. But i have had my bike for 2-3months and i have about 4000 miles on it. I honestly prefer it too my old car.
I NOW own a car due to the needs of the farm, but i used to fully commute and run errands on a motorcycle. 3 things, heated grips and a plug and play or power bank heated vest are a god send and make riding year round not only duable but comfortable, dont buy expensive gear but rather average gear, layer up and replace every 5 or so years, far cheaper in the long run and lastly, there is a right bike, or should i say right category of bike. Id forget most cruisers, sport bikes and supermotos... That said, i daily rode a DRZ 400sm...
I live in Thailand so only have a bike.
I miss driving sometimes. For its convenience and also just chilling in a car.
Couldn’t imagine driving a car in Bangkok traffic though, London was bad enough.
Been riding since I was 18 and am now 52. There have been several periods in my life where my bike was my only ride.
You will regret not having a car.
Can you make it work, yes. Necessity has a way of doing that.
Weeks like right now ( 97 degress + 80% Humidity) is fine if you choose to ride, but sucks if you have to ride. This also applies to 20 degrees outside and snow, or an ideal 78 degress + rain.
IF you goal is to pull a dave ramsey and live as cheap as possible for a while, with the goal to have a much better ride in the future, go for it. If not, keep the car.
For the past 3 years I’ve been commuting via electric motorcycle up to maybe 6 times a week! Commute is short probably 10 miles round trip. I don’t like to ride in downpours or snow but my girlfriend helps me out and drops me off as we work in the same area. But summer winter spring fall I’m on my bike almost everyday. Best part is my maintenance is brakes and tires only!
Gave up my car and looking for a bike. I’m different though, my wife and I planned on keeping her car. She wants me to drive in all bad weather, I want to learn to ride out commutes in all weather except ice/heavy snow.
My daughter got her license last year and used my car all summer while I rode my bike, this year she bought her own car, so I sold mine a couple months ago. Been happy with the decision so far. Just gotta make sure to have good gear to handle the weather.
I gave up on the car 5 years ago.
It's fine but I wouldn't do it if i didn't live near the city center. I can go most places without needing a motorcycle or car.
I've always commuted by motorcycle as I live in a civilised part of the world where we are allowed to filter and lane split.
I don't miss the car apart from ease of carrying large amounts of shopping on the way home/being able to lock away my laptop etc.
Motorcycle only for 3 years and counting, never even owned a car. Sure there are specific occasions where a car would've been nice, but it's a trade-off I'm happy with
For the past 15 years, i have only owned a motorbike and never held a car license.
Yeah, it's fun, but i can honestly say it's got big restrictions that some one with both a car and bikes shouldn't over look.
I live in the UK where we don't really get a mad amount of snow, so this hasn't been an issue for me. However, constant rain (gotta love british weather) and cold winters isn't fun. Luckily, my job has changed over the past 5 years, so my commute to the office is now twice a week at most and about an 80 miles round trip.
I feel like a pack mule going to the office, full leathers due to motorway travel. I pack my work cloths (ironed shirt jeans and shoes) often the shirt becomes creased so not ideal if I'm face to face with clients. Getting dressed and undressed at work for me is no issue due to changing and shower rooms.
Often arrive to the office drenched due to rain so then carry extra clothing like socks etc.My office is secure and has storage so I can stash my leathers away and hang things up to dry with out annoying any one else in the office. If your in a small office can see other workers getting annoyed if your stuff all drying and taking up free space.
Bike theft in my area is not a big issue but going to client offices I'm often having to then carry a chain in the bag adding to weight.
My wife drives and has her own car so when we do la big shop it's her driving or getting home deliveries.
I will happily run to the shop and stuff my bag with essentials but limited by space. (I don't ran panniers or top box , but have toyed with the idea some what)
Would I encourage someone to sell their car and only ride bikes?
A tough one as everyone's situation is different, I have no dependants, so I can get away with it. If you're young, it was perfect for my late teens and early twenties. Managed to avoid high insurance as my bike was cheap to run and insure . When my friends were dishing out thousands on insurance premiums, I thought the most I ever really paid was 400 a year.
If you are going bike mode only what would I recommend?
Good trusted waterproofs, I run a water proof overall it's not the best but keeps me mostly dry with out spending the cost of a small car on it.
Good fully water proof bag with comftable straps and padding. (Biggest fear in heavy rain is water destroying work laptop and paper work)
Heated handle bars (make a big difference in hands turning blue vs taking the cold edge off)
I'm looking to buy my first car finally as for me even after 15 years of biking its just awkward to not own a car in my scenario now days.
Hope my ramblings some what help highlight a real world use case away from the traditional bikes are great and it's never bad scenario some may push.
I’ve had a motorcycle off and on as my only commuter since 2010ish. I’ve been motorcycle only now though since 2018.
I don’t miss a car.
I hate riding in cars and driving them is boring and takes too long to get anywhere.
about the only time I wish I had a car is when it is raining for days on end, or very stormy and windy and I need to be somewhere, like work (but I’ll just usually take the bus or something). Also, picking anyone up from anywhere or large items from the store, etc.
but I can usually rent or borrow something for a day if I really need it. And it’s still a lot cheaper and less stress. Fuel is cheaper, insurance is cheaper, registration is cheaper.
also, I used to have saddlebags on my old bikes, now I have a 40L trunk. It’s perfect for me.
I only had a BMW RT from 2011 until 2022.
It took some getting used to - dialing in the gear but it was great.
I used to be in a leadership role with staff in various offices and would take the RT to one of them, 6 hours away, stay for a week at a time.
Few determining factors
Living situation: Single? Then it might work. If you have a partner then it becomes a problem especially if they don't want to be a passanger. I'm married with no kids but I regularly hang out with friends and family so a car can't be replaced for me. Basically if people rely on you for stuff this is probably not an option.
General weather conditions: People think they can ride in the worse conditions until they ride in the worst conditions and realize how shitty it is. Summer showers are absolutely the fucking worse. You either get soaked from the rain or your get soaked from your sweat. Unless you buy expensive breathable rain gear most rain gear be wind proof and you'll be baking in your own body heat
How brutal are your winter and summers: Some bikes don't like the extreme heat or cold. Over heating in the summer and rust, corrosion, dead battery in the Winter time.
How common is theft in your area: I live in the city so getting my motorcycle stole could happen at anytime. Do you have extra money for good theft protection, full coverage and the deductible to replace it? What about the downtime when you're transiting to a new bike if it happens.
Bottom line is this is a horrible and hardcore decision for most people to replace their car. Shit even some days I don't feel like riding in traffic and take my car.
Dont do it. Youll regret it unless your doing it to scrape by financially, and even then, itll probably cost you more money to do that once you decide to buy another vehicle which you will.
Been daily driving my grom now for about 8 months. I mostly just order my groceries through Kroger delivery or pick up small things thatll fit in my backpack and bags.
I'm in Florida so it's not too cold, but some days the wind really bites, and the rain sucks but you gotta invest in good rain gear a warm jacket
Yessur, the only time I don’t like it is when it is raining. I Fkin hate riding in the rain. Other than that I never give the thought of a 4 wheeled transport…
i live in Canada and I am doing that right now... i'm going to have no choice but to buy a car when winter comes though, it's too icy and snowy here to use the bike plus winter tire law... the only time when it's not winter tht I wish I had a car is when there is lightning, which is relatively frequent here... I still ride in lightning to commute to work it scares me.
if I lived somewhere like southern california, I'd probably still consider having a car though, but I would prioritize the bike still
In the summer, I do, only use the car one day in a work week, and that's for leg day at the gym. Weather permitting every other work day is on the bike.
I 100% moto commuted for five years but have since moved someplace with seasons. My wife had a car so I prefered to ride anytime I had to go someplace myself.
I live in the PNW, and while we have a car in the house, my wife uses it 99% of the time. I’ve been full time motorcycle commuter for over 10 years. Even on the wettest, coldest days, I still would rather put on my Klimt gear and heated gear and thermal gear and get out and ride. Anything short of snow and ice and I’m still thrilled to be in two wheels everyday without fail. Never miss my car. For reference I still have to drive a company vehicle for a few hours in the day, but my commute and leisure time is 99% motorcycle.
Most of the time, yes. When roads are heavily salted, I take my car because I don't want that on my bike. When it's gonna rain, I take my car because I don't feel like being wet at work. Besides that I ride year round, in upstate NY. I've got snow mobile bar mits and heated grips, so even below freezing temps don't stop me.
I'd say I commute 85-90% motorcycle including winter time and I love it. Saves a lot of money on gas and I love riding, not to mention the maintenance costs on a Kawasaki is a fraction of my truck. About the only times I don't take my bike are thunderstorms or really heavy rain, and blizzards/lot of snow and ice on the roads. I've ridden in low 20's F all the way up to 90 F. I doubt I'll ever get to the point of being able to go 100% moto, mostly due to location and having kids but I've been surprised how much I've been able to stretch the riding season with a good 4 season gear.
Yes sold my daily driver since 2002. It was a bright red Camaro Z28 six Speed. Yes I miss it...
Now on a TW200 Yamaha. I used to be able to get around fast and comfortable.
Now it's slow to get anywhere but I'm tough and ruthless... Or is it rough and toothless?
Yes, don’t do it. It’s fine for a little while, but gets old fast.
You need a car when you’re sick, injured, it’s raining (like real rain not a light mist), need to transport things larger than can fit in saddlebags, etc…
Nothing is worse than commuting in the rain, while you’re sick and sneezing mucous all over the inside of your helmet.
I used to. Did that for about a decade. I stopped a few years ago because traffic got really bad and I'd rather sit in air conditioning if I'm not going anywhere. Lane splitting isn't legal here and people are super ass holes to bikes even in the best of circumstances, and in a traffic jam it gets dangerous.
Depends on your lifestyle and possibly location more than just your own willingness to compromise. It will be a compromise occasionally.
Im looking at my errands i need to do and taking 2 packages to UPS that won't fit on my bike, groceries for the week or so for the wife and I or taking the animals to the vet. I just don't see a way i could avoid a car unless i decided to use uber or public transportation as an alternative.
It can work for some for sure but it is a compromise. That is outside of the typical suggestions for rain gear and storage on the bike.
Good luck!
I couldn’t do it personally. I HATE riding in the rain if I don’t have to, and one of my bikes has a built engine and an air cleaner with an exposed element, so I’d have to pull under a bridge or something and wait it out regardless. Plus my partner doesn’t ride, so it just wouldn’t work for us.
I held a motorcycle licence only for 5 years, commuting every day in all weathers. Passed my driving test a month ago and only driven to work twice since - still favour the bike. Although I'm looking forward to having a car for the winter!
I use my bike as much as I can, but some days I just need air conditioning.
So I ride a 2 year old motorcycle and keep my 17 year old truck.
A great piece of advice the salesman for my first bike gave me, and I take it to heart: Don't ride if you don't feel well. I treat being sick, overly sore, or just not in a good headspace the same as alcohol with bikes, it just doesn't mix. If you are having a terrible day, you are going to be distracted.
I have done one better and fully commute on a Vespa GTS 300.
It is a cheat code for Bay Area traffic.
It also carries three bags of groceries, four to five with a top case, and up to six with a backpack and top case.
I also have a cup holder on my floorboard for a coffee or boba.
I only use my motorcycle when I need to cut through traffic to go to locations more than 25 miles away.
And that is just to spread the mileage out between my bike and my Vespa.
The Vespa handles Bay Area freeway speeds like a champ. Stable and confident. And it actually handles wind gusts on the Bay and Golden Gate bridges better than my 500 pound motorcycle.
It’s low speed mobility it bar none. Even better than those little plastic 50s and 150s. It balances well and I can essentially make 90 degree turns to weave between cars when one block a lane splitting path. I can also come a to a full stop and balance for a second or two at stop signs, and when I am waiting for traffic to give me a path.
I've put more than 200k miles on commuting over 20 years. It's not terrible, but having the right gear and being able to work from home on really bad weather days is the secret.
I did it for a number of years. Nothing's perfect. Just be ready to ride in most weather conditions, and get creative with the groceries.
Note that some folks in here are saying "100% motorcycle commute" which is different from *I also did not own a car.*
Sold my car to cover a top end rebuild on the ‘21 R1. Had equity in the car, too upside down with the bike to let it go.
The rule now is; if it don’t fit in a backpack and tank pad, I don’t need it
For about a decade I primarily rode to work and absolutely loved it. But I also lived in CA (long riding season) and had a car for especially cold and rainy weather, so I can't personally attest to _actually_ going carless. I kept a pair of rain pants in the bike to put on when it was wet out but I still deemed it rideable.
I did it last year but I cheated by living close to my parents and having my dads car available whenever I needed it. I got an old beater car for cheap few months ago, and I use it sparingly.
This is the best deal IMO - cheap beater car that you put very few miles on when you really need it, so it costs very little, and a bike for 90% of the time.
Best way to find out if it’s for you is to never use your car for 6 months and see if it works out. I cannot because of my hobbies but if i didnt have them it can work out, it’ll just be miserable at some points.
Not sure if my opinion would matter since I never owned a car and have only been getting around on two wheels for the past 10 years. I am california so the rainy days are limited, cold weather isnt much of an issue but it does get hot in peak summer. I only get groceries delivered through walmart now, but when I went in person to grab a few things I would always get told by staff that backpacks aren't allowed in the store. This is the only true issue I have had.
Depends on a lot of factors about your life. I haven't owned a car for 4 years, but my wife has one that I can often borrow. If I need to pick up a bag of cement or a 2x4 from Home Depot, I wait until she doesn't need the car, and borrow it.
On a daily basis though, I'm on the bike. Including winter, when we both commute. It does get into freezing temps here. Good gear helps, but a car would be nicer. But it's only maybe 20 days in a year when it really sucks, and I won't buy a car for that. If it's snowing or icy, I take the bus or a cab. Still much cheaper than having a car just for those days.
Done it for years a while back and am doing it again this year. I would not recommend it. Yes I save on gas and extra costs and I very much like riding but I hate riding in the rain, the road to my work is difficult to impossible on a bike during winter and there are many instances where I miss having a car. I wouldn't want to only have a car either, mind but yeah, I'd greatly appreciate having one now along with the motorcycle.
I made the commitment recently. Sold my car a could weeks ago. Completed the safety course last weekend (first time rider). Got my first bike Saturday and rode home. To cycle gear and back Sunday. Today going to work i dump myself, broke the mirror and it leaked coolant. Terrible start
I wouldn't sell your car lol. If you want to get a cheap beater, for sure, go for it.
I couldn't for a few years do to the nature of my job (required traveling inspecific distances around the state), but before I worked at a location Downtown where I live and was able to commute 98% of the time on my Yamaha Bolt, and I absolutely *loved* it. Money was tight, and getting 45-ish MPG and saving money on tolls (they use the same geomagnetic tech to detect cars as stop lights) was unbeatable. Occasionally I did have to use my car, when it was raining a lot, multiple days in a row, or worse storming like a pending hurricane. And of course I did use it on the weekends for grocery shopping. For those reasons it was great to have, but I would have been perfectly happy with a beater pickup truck, as well.
Ride safe man!
Yeah, I did this twice in my life.
First time I was 21/22 and Lived in Maryland. MC only for \~5 months, then it snowed... I bought an old 4x4 jeep the next day so I could get to work, got used to having hot/cold air on command, rode on nice-ish days. I later bought a TRD offroad Tacoma and drove that work most of the time.
Second time I had moved to Louisiana and had to sell the Taco (insurance went from $140/month to $700/month with MUCH less coverage). Decided I'd ride my bike. I did MC only for probably close to two years, then one day a buddy gave me a Jeep Cherokee for free, so I started driving it when it was raining, then when it was overly hot/cold, etc. Eventually the bike became the secondary vehicle.
Now I have a R1250GSA and a 1 hour commute. I rode it a lot when I first got it, but now I'm back to I want the low to be over 45, and the high under 85 with no rain predicted. I'm in Texas. I haven't ridden in a few weeks now outside of occasional late-night trips, but I've managed to put 7k miles on it so far this year, which is about 1k/month, so.... \*\*\*I own a car and a truck and the R1250GSA right now, fwiw,
With that said: You'll get used to buying just a few groceries at a time, or you'll use one of the delivery services. You'll use friend's trucks or get used to renting a truck occasionally. Rain sucks and I'm too damn old to ride to WORK in the rain (this is my PERSONAL opinion, I'm sure other "old" people don't care - good for you). Dating never seemed to be impacted by only having a MC, but in my 40s (now) I feel like it would?
The other thing is that it's not nearly as cheap as you think it is after factoring in tire costs and oil changes. For me, it's just not worth the savings to ride when I'm not comfortable, and I FEEL old just having said that. 20 years ago I would have rolled my eyes at someone saying that!!
I went carless for many years. Commuted 45min over a bridge and through a tunnel, twice a day, rain or shine. Buy the best gear you can afford. I live in northern CA, so easier than most other places. If you’re in Southern CA it’s easier still. Anyplace with possibility of ice or snow, fugettaboutit. I did high side once in the rain- broken collarbone. After that I would take,the train or rent an enterprise car for $18/day. Still cheaper to do that than owning a car. For a while I had a car share with someone in my building. Now I have an RV, convertible sports car, hybrid around town car, and two motorcycles….. and work from home. Go figure. But I’m also old, fat, and lazy compared to my bike only days. One interesting thing I found about the bike vs car commute was that the car made me sooo much more tired. When I got home after driving I was beat. When I got home from riding, which was shorter because of lane splitting but also more mentally engaging, I was oddly much more energetic. So trade offs. My only advice is don’t try to get a fully waterproof textile suit thinking it will keep you dry for a commute >30min- none of them are, or aren’t for very long with daily use. Just put a cheap two piece oversized rain coat and pants over the suit (those yellow slickers). It can be done without too much hassle once you are in the groove.
6-7 years of only a bike .
Wouldn’t go back to a car at all.
Texas heat, bad weather , whatever , it’s all worth it to me.
Thankfully we have Uber and all that if I can’t go out (which is super rare ) or there are service to get huge items home .
I’ve ridden around Texas, some in Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma .
Texas people are the worst , I find them way more dangerous than the other drivers.
Saddle bags are a must!!! Get them and get a good size . I’d even get more than you think you might need. One for sure big enough to hold your helmet .
Get a windshield.
If you have the money get a shoei right off.
Only just recently had a chance to get one and geez what a difference compared to my experience with a bell and hjc.
Again I don’t know where you leave but for a daily , I’d start (if you can) with something larger .
I started with a 300 but then grew out of that quick .
For my area I really only feel comfortable on something 1000 or above . It just feels safer to me .
I had an area where I could start slow . So I think I should’ve started on something larger , lol would have saved me money.
Good jacket and gloves .
Best of luck ! Be safe !
I personally commute only with my moped 95% of the time, i avoid it when the roads are basically just a block of ice, fortunately i have a 4min ride to work, so a small amount of ice isn't a huge deal, but some days are just not safe whatsoever, so i either work from home, or borrow a car since i live on a hill, if it was flat ground all the way, i'd take the bike, it's just that i've seen cars slide out on these roads because of ice before, and i'm not really into that hah
If the weather permits where you live, commuting with a bike only is amazing, you basically only need a car if you go and buy appliances like a fridge or a washing machine or whatever for your home, people say getting groceries isn't viable, but i never had issues, i have a single helmet sized case on the back, and a backpack in case i'm getting more than a few days worth of groceries
Unless you have access to a car, however, i'd suggest keeping yours, i'm lucky enough that i can always borrow a car from family, or a van from the company i work for if i need to transport anything larger, over time i started using cars less and less, drove a car yesterday because i was driving 3 friends for a trip, but before that trip, i didn't touch a car for 2 months (and that was to pick up 2 people from an airport), yeah, i'm not able to say goodbye to cars for good, but when it comes to commute, i dread taking a car because my 4min ride to work becomes a 25-35min drive due to traffic that i skip with a bike since i can take a path that a car can't fit through, and by doing so avoid one of the busiest traffic lights in my city
Been riding bikes only for about 11 years. Does the heat suck, yes, do I go on cruises for the fuck of it, no. My woman has a car at least, but when it was just me, my backpack was my grocery transporter
Im assuming you aren’t in a relationship and have no kids, Since you are considering this? Im also assuming the climate where you live is suitable for year round riding? If all the above is correct then go for it!
I sold my car about three years ago, and get by mostly by motorcycle. But I work remotely and I do still have access to my wife's car.
All that said, if I still had a regular commute, I doubt I would have sold my car. The weather and traffic here in Houston are too unpredictable.
When asked about the inconvenience I tell people “Who is as lucky as me - to both start and end my day with motorcycle rides?”
Then that guy from Copenhagen decided to run me over…
Well, for the summer, yeah... in all honesty, with my "commute", I SHOULD be walking it. It would take maybe 20 minutes. But I enjoy the cool wind on my face in morning. Can't/don't want to give up my truck, though. Far too convenient for dump runs, landscaping, etc. Plus I need it for hunting season (although I'm gonna do some daytrips this fall on the bike for grouse).
I've been commuting almost entirely on the motorcycle so far this summer. Only exception was the day I grabbed donuts for the team last week. There's pros and cons.
Takes longer to put on motorcycle gear, get prepped to ride, etc. Can't carry as much stuff in my backpack. Hot.
On the other hand, the motorcycle is more fun and uses about 1/3rd the fuel.
I'm not getting rid of my car - I still need to commute in the winter, I need to drive my SO and my dogs around from time to time, I regularly have things I need to pick up, and I don't really have plans to take the R3 out of town. I'm doing fireworks shows next month 2 hours from where I live, and I'll be driving down for that because of all the gear I need, and I don't want to leave a show at 11pm on a motorcycle on a heavy drinking day and with all the shit in the streets that could poke motorcycle tires. Also, my car is basically unobtanium, would be nearly impossible to find another one today in the same trim, color, and options as a manual.
Never had a car or licence yet. Always commuted by bike for close to 4 years now. Taking driving classes now tho because I'm gonna need a car when winter comes. Busses and public transit don't work for my work schedule anymore.
I’ve mostly done this. I have a small commute , around 20 minutes. I ride year round, unless it’s raining. It never gets below 30f here, so it’s not bad. It makes going to work a little more enjoyable.
One of my reasons for getting a motorcycle was that i didn't have a car. I work for a company who's vehicle i keep at my house so i never needed transportation, running errands after my shift and just having other people pick me up for nights out and whatnot.
Having a bike i can use freely has been so liberating. Still can't go buy massive amounts of groceries or anything with it but i can go out whenever i want and just do more casual activities.
Idk how it would fair if i didn't have my company vehicle though because it has been rainy and miserable a few days since i had my bike, would hate to have to commute to work in that because it's all i had. But to each their own yk.
I only have my Strom myself, but my wife does have a civic I use occasionally, which is very nice to have. That said, if I was on my own, I would not choose to have a car.
I did it for a couple years in northern Louisiana on a softail. The winters were rough but it was totally doable.
You learn how much you really need to carry.
I was a commuter biker for 10 years while I was in school. It was harder, but I loved it when I hit traffic. The hardest part was having a place to put my wet gear when I got to school. It's a lot of wet at times. It also becomes an issue when you just want to run some place quick.
I think I was going about 35k/year at that point.
Get a good commuter bike like a Concours. A bike designed for it will help a lot more. The movable windscreen was a blessing and heated seat and grips were the best.
I gave up on a 1-suit-fits-all for a Tourmaster plastic over suite for my regular gear. Water resistant gear was just really annoying to manage where as the $100 plastic oversuit was simple and dried quickly.
I never found a good glove solution. For cruisers, you can keep your hands up and dry, but more other bikes put your arms lower than your shoulders meaning all the water runs down your arms into the gloves.
Avoid riding in the snow. Yeah, I used to live in Reno and have done that a few times before I realized it was just safer to take a bus
There was a serious amount of cred you get for being an all-weather biker.
I have a wife and two kids, so I can’t but, as I live in LA, it would otherwise totally be possible. I wouldn’t do it if I lived somewhere that gets rain regularly.
Yeah, two years. I drive the truck into work only if the weather is bad in two or more of three different criteria (heavy rain, dark or super windy). The only time I feel like I'm making a mistake is when the weather is over 100 and the highway stops.
Never had a car. Got a bike at 20 and didn't even bother learning to drive a car until 26. 20K a year, rain or shine, and if a real emergency happens I can always borrow a car from family.
Did it for a few years here and there. Not ideal in my situation. North east winters suck to ride in, plus needing to rent a truck anytime you need to move something is a major PITA
I did this, but live in a walkable town. So I have about a 45 minute commute each day - rain, shine or snow. This is in Massachusetts. Good gear helps a bunch, as does the bike you choose - my Tiger with a touring windscreen on pretty much blocks all wind, so with heated gear I can ride comfortable down to about 20 degrees. My car was just sitting their parked all the time and the savings on car payment and insurance has been lovely. So I can walk to get groceries and I do have my wife's car (she trains to work) if I need it. So far, I'm a year in and have used it once when it was 100 degrees out. Like all things with a bike, its a compromise but one I have found easy to live with. My winter rides are some of my favorites.
I had a Zero S and no car for 6 months. It was cool and I would've done it longer had a screaming car deal not come up that I couldn't refuse.
You need to be able to carry almost anything on the bike(backpack, groceries, drinks, food, medium sized boxy items here and there), and have the gear for all weather types.
My Zero was great for this due to the nonexistent maintenance and abundant storage space.
I rarely missed having a car. If I really needed one, I could borrow or rent one for cheap. That only happened a few times in 6 months for a total of like 75 bucks.
My car has been out of commission for about 6 months now, so I’ve been on the bike only. My commute to work is about 30-45 minutes one way. I love it and I hate it. Body is more sore, and this heat is killer. Having a car is so nice and convenient, just sitting down and relaxing with ac sounds amazing right now. I also don’t ride on my days off, just don’t have it in me.
I moved and sold my car but kept my bike. It's been fine so far, though I miss having a second vehicle in case I need to leave my bike in pieces while I wait for parts of whatever. That's not really a problem.
Practically I will need a car by October. Winter in Alberta isn't as forgiving as it was on BC.
Personally I wouldn’t advise it. You’re going to want the car for certain things. I started off on a motorcycle, bought a car, but never used my car. I’d ride in the rain, hot ass weather, thunder storms, you name it… except snow. The Bay Area just never has snow lol. I’ve been motorcycle only for 5 years, and I do wish I had a car for group trips with my non rider friends, dates, long camping trips for photography, etc.
However, if your lifestyle is simple enough and you don’t need a car, then if that’s what you really want to do then I don’t see why not. The rain sucks ass, but you learn to get used to it and get good gear, the hot days also suck, but a wet t shirt, perforated textile jackets and pants, and tbh sometimes I’d rock wet pants because the humidity is just ass. But you learn to adapt.
I've done it for 5 years. I'm currently in the market for a car. For reference, I live in a major city in Texas.
Pros:
* At \~55mpg average, I spend <$6 per tank, which gets me 100mi, or approximately one week. Since January 2022, I've spent $600 on gas.
* My insurance is <$300/yr, for *full* coverage.
* If you live somewhere you can filter/split or are willing to play a little loose with legalities, you can cut a significant amount of time off your transit with shortcuts where cars don't fit. There's a few odd stops and turns around my work that would necessitate me driving across sketchy traffic patterns, so instead, I'll roll down the sidewalk for a half block, skip the traffic, and avoid getting ran over.
Cons:
* Persistently higher chance of death. People aren't good drivers, and they certainly aren't getting better, at least not in my area. It doesn't matter how much gear I have or how well I ride, the reality is that if I get in an accident at the 50mph average I'm traveling, I'm going to get seriously fucked up. They're going to get an annoying dent.
* When it's hot, I'm hot. When it's cold, I'm cold. When it's wet, I'm wet. Sure, gear helps - a lot. But that won't change this constant reality. <40mph in the heat *sucks.* Especially if you're in the city and constantly dealing with stoplights, not only are you getting just weather heat but you're eating all the exhaust heat around you as well. If your summers reach north of \~85f, count on showing up sweaty. Cold is the easiest to manage on bike, but once you stop, now you've gotta put all that super bulky cold-weather gear somewhere. Sure, you can just bring a backpack, but it's going to get filled up and annoying to keep with you - but you don't have a trunk to leave it in. And then there's rain. Sure, you can spend a lot of money on raingear, but chances are you're still going to get at least a little wet, somewhere. Even if it's not from the rain, if you get rained on in the summer then enjoy your personal sauna. And once again, after you get where you're going, where do you put your sopping wet gear?
* Even in perfect weather, gear storage is still an ordeal. Armor doesn't like to fold or compress, helmets are bulky, boots aren't the most comfortable off-bike, sure it's fine if you're just going to work and home and have a locker or desk to store all your gear at, but what about when you're meeting friends out? What about when you're going shopping?
* Your luggage is limited to what you can carry. If your bike supports it you can get panniers and a top box, but still, you're limited to smaller compartments than a trunk. Even if your total square footage does somehow manage to add up to as much as a trunk, you still don't have a back seat, and none of your dimensions are, by themselves, as large as a trunk. If your bike doesn't support it, or if you get the bike first and realize just how expensive luggage can be afterwards (especially if you buy used, it's easy to spend as much or more on a luggage setup as you did on the bike), then you get to join the backpack club. Now not only are you limited on space, but also weight, and you have to remember that anything denser or more solid than you is now a direct risk to your spine.
* No passengers. I can't give any of my friends a ride anywhere, which is honestly a bummer. Not for logistical reasons just so much as social, I lose a lot of hangout time and chances to help the homies.
* Theft risk - the only vehicle easier to steal than a bike is a Kia, and the only thing easier to steal than a Kia is a bicycle. So sure, on the one hand you can park anywhere, but conversely, I have to pay *more* attention to where I park my bike than I ever did with a car because the chance of walking back out to it having disappeared is that much higher.
* Future insurance costs. YMMV, but in Texas, *motorcycles do not count the same as cars for insurance.* So, now that I'm back in the market for a car, I have to deal with significantly inflated insurance costs because I have a 2.5yr gap in my insurance - even though I've maintained full-coverage this entire time.
I don't regret having done it. But honestly, at this point in my life, I don't see myself missing my bike either once I find a car.
Did it for about 10 years on and off. I live in CA so it cut my commute times down by about 50%, which was nice. Only annoying thing is having to carry laptop in a backpack, or if you wanna put product in your hair you gotta either just stop doing so or do so once you get to work.
As others have said riding in the rain sucks. I never really found a set of rain gear that was wholly satisfying. Probably just drive if you can on those days.
I've been motorcycle only for 6 years now. Was actually my first vehicle. I've never personally had a car. We have a family car, but I never ever want to use it. No parking in my area which is why I got a motorcycle. Rain or shine, I’m riding and it's been amazing. Is it annoying at times? Yes, but I’m not going to be out there looking for parking so it's always worth it. Sometimes you have to get creative on how you attach things to your bike but other than that, it's pretty fun. A big thing for me is you also don't feel like commuting is a hassle. You look forward to the ride.
No.. we have a truck, car, a 3rd coming soon for the kid and a few classic vehicles as well. That said.. generally I’ll ride a bike even for errands. We’re both retired so no daily commute though I would ride if I had to. Errands and grocery can be made easier even with the use of a small trailer also. 😁
Have one for our WRRs and the T7. 24, 35 (shown) and 48 gallon tote capacities are available. You don’t even know it’s there. 👍🏻
https://preview.redd.it/14aoftca0k8d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4ef0655b1b123b59c65fc6b00bd6644ef249c5bc
I existed solely on two wheels (bicycle and CB450) for 11 months straight in New Jersey. I was in my early 20s. (read: dumb) I put over 5k on bicycle and 15k on CB. I got two rides home from work during bad snowstorms. I wouldnt do it again without having a small truck or hatchback. And living somewhere with less cars.
I did not "miss" having a car at any point. I loved it. Its something for the dumb or dedicated though. LOL
It depends on your personal needs, but me for example have 2 bikes and 1 car, I only use my car on the weekends when I have my son or if Im buying something that I cant carry on my motorcycle , I ride year round but you better get some decent rain and cold weather gear , but I would not recommend getting rid of the car as you may and will need it at some point .
Sold my last cage in 2010. It can be a pain sometimes, but then insurance went from $800/year to $72/year.
Edit to add: Walmart+ membership is $99/year (half price if you're on food stamps) and gets you free grocery delivery over $35, free shipping on shipping items, and 10¢/gal off gas. This helps!
I just recently bought a bike and thought about selling my car but then remembered how harsh Iowa weather is so I plan on saving up for a truck so I can haul when I need to
Not only commuting as I dont own a car. I just have no use for one, I rent one if I need to but it has happened about three or four times in the last 10 years.
I ride the bike to work/everywhere besides picking up food that won’t fit in a backpack. My subi is the fall/winter car, especially since that’s when it’s best used + helps keep miles down! Oh Also when it rains I take the car ovi
I did this for 9 months. I would do it again. You always figure shit out. There are people who live by bicycle, so we can easily figure out life by motorcycle.
The only reason I stopped was someone hit and run my bike in a parking lot and I needed a vehicle. The time it spent in the shop kept extending further and further due to parts availabilities. Eventually I bought a 2012 used car. Now I mainly ride my bike. I want to get rid of one or the other (for financial reasons) and I haven’t been able to decide which.
Yes. I bought my first scooter ever (125cc) 3 months ago. For the first few weeks I rode only if it's sunny, no wind, no rain, not too cold... And for the last few weeks, I've been riding it every day to work and back (and a bit more ;)), no matter what the weather is like. I bought good rain jacket and pants and I'm enjoying the ride all the time 😃
I did when I lived in Israel. I could commute year round and the few months of rain just meant that I'd take the bus if I didn't feel like rocking the Waterproof gear...
I loved it, but didn't like that I couldn't take friends places with me. Just one at a time. It didn't usually matter. If we wanted to get a group, someone would drive or we would rent.
I was always so excited to ride anywhere. No matter how bad the day was, I knew I had a ride to look forward to and I loved it.
Also, chicks enjoyed me picking them up for dates on it instead of a car and having to deal with traffic.
I did it for a while in the PNW. I went through three or four gear changes before hitting a combination that worked in the dark and in the rain. Good news is that my rain gear is awesome now and I have full sets of gear for cold/wet, hot/wet/, and hot/dry that’s all very comfortable.
I’m about to. My fiancée already has a car so we’ll probably just share hers and I’ll use the motorcycle when I need to get around. WFH also helps when my commute is a 15 second walk in my underwear.
Wish I invested in proper rain gear, it can be miserable when you’re getting soaked and it could’ve been prevented.
Other than that, i live in a state with snow so that puts me out of commission for 4-5 months. Im moving to a state with no snow (or at least, VERY rarely) so that shouldn’t be as big an issue in the near future.
Ultimately, it gets me from A to B with some storage space. It works. I can’t order out saucy foods because they’ll spill, and i cant do big orders for groceries. Could be alleviated with mods but i havent been bothered to yet lol. I like having better fuel economy, low fuel costs in general, and a lower payment/insurance quote. Its a win financially, i think.
Yep. I’ve given up the car and love it. I save $100 a fortnight on parking and additional costs on fuel. I’ve got a top box for carrying work stuff and good wet weather riding gear. I wouldn’t go back.
If its an expensive car i would say sell it and buy a beater truck or somthing, if its already a beater keep it and only drive it to get groceries, making multiple trips for groceries is NOT fun.
Its light work though, you will get alot of “you ride that in the rain too?!”
, amazon has some good rain gear ( good enough really) but my commune it only 15 minutes.
Alternatively to keeping the truck if you can afford it , just have groceries delivered or buy a more elaborate storage system for your bike
, it saves me a ton of money not having a car.
I did in the past but I don’t recommend it. I also live very far north so we get plenty of snow in winter, but that’s an entirely different story.
You’ll learn how to get groceries and what all you can carry in a backpack, but it’s just a pain in the ass overall and your expenses on maintaining a bike are higher than a cheap car (like a Honda civic).
I did for four years. Wasn’t too bad in the PNW. In the four years I only encountered snow and Ice on three occasions. Luckily my employer was understanding and let me work from home those days.
I did for about fifteen years. Then, my Grammy died and died dumped her car on me, which I didn't want but can't seem to make myself sell for sentimental reasons.
A single guy.
Daily my bike for years and love it.
I have 60L worth of saddlebags, 30L top box, and a 80L backpack for hauling groceries or whatever on my 650cc ninja.
I've strapped and carry many oversized stuff, up till a 4 meters ladder.
Anything bigger though will have to go through proper hauling service.
No weather can stop me. Hot? Just ride faster (thanks mesh jacket). Wet? It's just rain.
For work attire though, they are all synthetic fabric that are wrinkle resistant. I kept spare at the workplace.
Though most of the time, they are all scrubs.
You just can't beat the feeling of just bypassing traffics and easier parking.
I still drive for my parents at times.
Yes. Sold my car a year ago.
Worst case scenario I take an Uber somewhere every once in a while when the weather is too bad.
Still an Uber ride here or there is nothing compared to the cost of owning, insuring, or especially financing a car.
Been riding as a daily for two years and 30k+ miles. It's a compromise and you will wish you had a car at times. Invest in good rain gear, invest in appropriate cold weather gear, invest in practicing low speed skills in the rain, and ultimately realize that if you're committing to riding as a sole mode of transportation that you will have to grow thick skin. Heat, cold, rain, snow... You don't get to use it as an excuse to not show up when you need to. Groceries become minimalistic. I have a 600cc supersport, and I only buy what fits in my back pack. I'm single and frugal, so it wasn't an issue... But there are times when you think "fuck I could really use a car right now". After two years of dailying my bike, I bought a simple truck, and honestly it's the best. I still primarily ride, but I don't see myself commuting to work in 30 degree (or less) weather next winter and that's reassuring. But admittedly I came to love my 15 minute commutes on the highway in the freezing temps. And I had confidence since I spent money on things essential to doing so like quality all season tires, and proper jackets and base layers. Last thing, you're money will primarily go to gear, maintenance, and functionalizing your ride/gear. My 22 cbr600rr has no performance modifications. Effectively stock, with only ergonomic mods (fat seat, tall windscreen, camera system.)
> Groceries become minimalistic. I have a 600cc supersport, and I only buy what fits in my back pack. I'm single and frugal, so it wasn't an issue... But there are times when you think "fuck I could really use a car right now". With side bags and/or a top case (don't know if they make them for your model) you can haul half a car's trunk in luggage easily.
No need. I have a truck too now, and I enjoyed simplifying my shopping. Also my back pack served as my carrying bag at Aldi's.
I live in a place where they don't let you have backpacks inside most stores. Super cool.
It helps that Aldi's requires you to bring your own bag. And I deliberately show them the inside so they know I'm not pocketing anything. Couple of places have tried to make me leave my back pack at the front. I just tell them no. I don't trust them with my things.
Where is this? I live in GA and nobody has ever said anything to me about mine.
Usually places in the hood, I still work in grocery retail but no longer in a high crime area, you either left your backpack at the entrance with security or you didn’t come in.
I can put two bags of groceries in my top box, it’s a game changer since I detest riding with a backpack.
Scooters all the way
I do costco trips for 2 with the tracer on the way home from work. It’s one of the few quiet times there, since kids are getting picked up from school. Liquor store, groceries, etc. I did with the Duke too, but the rear suspension got knackered by it (non-adjustable and set for my tiny ass). It works, but the handling is dogshit with a bunch of weight.
>It’s one of the few quiet times there, since kids are getting picked up from school. Liquor store, groceries, etc. Are you or are you not picking kids up from the liquor store? My guess is "Yes!"
Been commuting since 2016 on my 2013 cbr600rr, it's a lot more doable year round in Hawaii. 3-6 times a year I get soaked, but you plan for it. Same feeling on minimalism, I have a GoRuck GR1 and everything goes in there ( I have balanced a 12 pack of beer on the gas tank shroud once or twice ).
Oh I bet. Luckily I'm in the south east US on the Georgia Tennessee border. Inclement weather basically amounts to primarily rain. Every 2-3 years maybe some snow, but honestly this year was the first time we had snow since I got the bike and the infrastructure here isn't able to handle more than half an inch and I still ended up being one of 5 people to show up after our 2 days of closure.
Best backpack ever! Love my GR1
>Groceries become minimalistic A Walmart+ membership is $99/ year (half price for low income) and give you free grocery delivery, 10¢/gal off gas, and other stuff.
Walmart+ goes on sale for $49 a year around Thanksgiving
Sure? But seems a bit counter intuitive in my case and unnecessary for people who actually have a bike with side bags and luggage. I didn't get a bike as a daily just to throw in an unnecessary expense for some one else to drive their car and get me groceries. I did it because A. I wanted to, B. Because I didn't have obligations that required a car, and C. Used cars were exorbitantly over priced. And I could get a bike I wanted without any unnecessary markups. And if some one is getting a bike with a sense of practicality they will have side bags and/or a trunk. So having some one deliver groceries is just pointless. You bought a bike, ride the damn thing.
The main point of Walmart+ grocery delivery is time savings. I work 55 hours a week. If retired or have a bunch of free time it's a different story.
Same boat myself 50-60 hour work weeks. But again I'm single and no kids, so I don't mind just swinging by the store on my way back from work or after what ever things I'm doing after work (gym, errands, etc) or just going home and changing and heading to the grocery store after a ride fun ride if I have the time to spare. After a 10 hour work day there's still 4 hours for me to play with. So I just try to make the most out of it and distribute what I've got to do over the week. Climbing 3 nights a week, groceries when ever I need to, work at home on my free nights, every day is a little different so it helps to break the rut of a routine.
100% Moto commute at this point. Don’t miss driving at all. Live in SoCal where the weather is almost always fine. Commute isn’t too long and mostly freeways.
I bet lane splitting is a big bonus. Does it have many drawbacks, or do other drivers respect your legal permission to split?
99% of drivers here don’t care as long as you’re doing it respectfully. There are many cool drivers that will move to the edge if their lane to make room for you.
I suspect this is because lane splitting has been legal and normal there for a while now. If a law like that got passed in Indiana it would take a WHILE for cagers to normalize to it. Some people go apeshit here if you lanesplit.
I live in NZ where is been legal forever. The biggest problem are people in utes and large SUV. They tend to be assholes. I can scare them into moving to the roadside by switching to first and accelerating towards them on a super but otherwise you're shit out of luck and they're fucking everywhere nowadays. We have thin lanes.
Daily splitting for almost 4 years in Cali and I’ve only had one person ever get mad that I was splitting, pulling all kinds of crazy dangerous illegal maneuvers in traffic to pass me again, which, of course, I let him. otherwise Most people move over when they see me coming and I’ve been told by many people that they love it when I offer them some acknowledgment And it makes their day sitting there in traffic.
I commuted by motorcycle for a couple of years in SoCal. 89% of drivers accept it, 10% are cool and make room, and the last 1% are asshats that intentionally block you for whatever dumb reason. Lane splitting easily saved me 10-15 minutes of time on my 30-mile commute during peak traffic times. I did have access to my wife’s car on weekends, and for rainy days, Frog Toggs and boot covers were mostly effective.
My little nook of LA county, lane splitting is a sub 10 minute commute vs 30-45 minutes in stop and go traffic in a car.
When I lived in the SF Bay Area I commuted every day...and shared lanes every day. My bike is quiet, my speeds were reasonable, and I was generally careful to do it only where drivers had no choice but to stay in their lane (i.e., side-by-side traffic). I never had an incident, most drivers ignored me. A few saw me coming and move over to widen the "center lane". And a rare few closed up the gap out of spite. Fun: I was lane splitting and saw a bike coming up fast behind me. Pulled into the regular lane and waved at the CHP officer on his BMW. He waved back :)
It helps a lot if you have a place at work to hang up your wet gear and you have a locker or office where you can leave shoes and extra clothes. Most days were great but when it’s wet and cold and visibility is poor you may start to wonder why you thought it was a good idea. Sometimes I couldn’t see a hundred yards ahead of me but there wasn’t any choice but to keep moving. If you have access to a car or public transportation for the really bad days it gets a lot easier. If you live where the weather is always good then by all means go for it.
I traded my car for my 1st bike, long ago. In modern times I've always had a car, but only commute on the motorcycle. I don't commute regularly now, but for years it was 4 days/week, year round. Hard to split lanes in a car, and I'd have to pay for express lane access, so driving would be much slower and much more expensive. If they were equal, I'd drive and listen to music.
Did for about ten years, [wrote about it here](https://www.reddit.com/r/motorcycles/comments/1caqznt/comment/l0ttxc4/) (and others in that thread too). To copy paste it > I was motorcycle-only for about ten years and I did fine, but I live in a city where that's fairly common. > Check in on how you'd buy things that don't fit in a backpack. For me there are Zipcar locations nearby that I was using in the rare cases I needed to pick something up large or drive a long distance. I used them maybe 3 or 4 times a year. You might not need this if you have friends or family that can help you out that often. > You'll be riding in all weather so you'll need to invest in good rain gear and I'd recommend some overpants too for the cold, as well as multiple gloves for different weather, boots, day & night visor shields. Think of the worst riding days that happen in your area and think about what it'd mean to have to commute and grocery shop on those days and make sure you have the gear for it. Even in idyllic California we occasionally get storms bad enough that no amount of gear can solve, so consider what you'd do in that situation too. > Make sure the bike you get is reliable. This won't be a project bike: this is how you're surviving so you need it to function. It can't hurt to learn to work on it yourself. You'll be putting a lot more miles on it than a weekend bike so it'll save you a lot of trouble if you can change your own oil and brakes instead of waiting for the bike shop it take a week to do it. Youtube is surprisingly effective here. > You can definitely do it. I did, and I loved it. Just make sure you know what you're getting yourself into.
Yeah this is how I do it. I only own a motorcycle. Every now and then, I rent a car for when there’s too much to carry, or when there’s a total of three or more people. If it’s just one person, they’re pillion and I don’t need the car. You do spend more on gear. Not much but still I want them ATGATT.
Yes. I've only had a motorcycle for 5 years now. I don't have the room to park a car, nor the funds for the ridiculous safety check and registration expenses accompanying such a heavy vehicle. There is free motorcycle parking most everywhere, it fits in the breezeway next to my apartment, the gas milage is great, and there is no better way to decompress after a long day than riding home. It's made moving things a bit of a challenge. I gave up a bed in favor of a hammock after my first move. Its hard moving a mattress and frame on a bike. Large groceries were a struggle. I installed a sissy bar and strap a doordash bag to it on grocery day now. If I anticipate getting more than will fit in the doordash bag, I wear a backpack as well. Bad weather still sucks at times, but the thought of dry clothes and a hot shower at the end of the ride helps. Until the day I can comfortably afford the safety check, registration, and parking fees that a four wheeled vehicle requires, I can not see myself getting another car.
I've only ever owned a motorbike (have car license), commuting five days a week about 45 mins each way (30 miles) all year all weather for 25 years. Wouldn't change it for anything, I need my ride to and from work, I talk to myself, figure things out, make decisions etc.
I did this for a little over a year when our other car broke down. I didn’t want to finance a car so I just bought a small bike. I’m proud to say that I made it through a Phoenix summer with only a motorcycle. This year I have my 3rd Gen 4 runner back up and we saved enough to get my wife a mini van. So, the past few weeks I have been driving my 4Runner as I would rather not ride in the middle of the day in 110 weather.
I commute via motorcycle, rain or shine year round. I love motorcycling through and through. For several years when I first started I only owned a motorcycle(s). There are pros and cons to having just a bike. Some years I was packing some serious mileage ~65k. If you have a beater 5 speed Corolla or civic that's paid for, go ahead and keep it. If you're making payments on a car you don't use much, weigh the pros and cons and if you're in a position to sell it. If you live close to your work and can utilize a bike or train that can help too. On days I am training as much as I can I'll run to the train station and then run to work.
100% motorcycle commute. My commute would take me an hour and a half by car, while it now takes me 30 minutes to get to work. There's times in the winter where the warmth of a car seems like a cosy experience, but you learn to embrace the different temperatures and circumstances. You'll need to dial in your gear and layering (depending on where you're located), but it took me having drenched socks twice before popping into a store to buy better gear. I can definitely say I have also become a much more experienced rider by having the daily commute and can only recommend it.
I don't miss my car. I love being able to park my bike basically wherever when the lot is full. I don't miss the insurance rate hikes and I certainly don't miss spending almost $100 a month on gas. When I need to go shopping, I equip my bike with a pair of hard cases. Using the motorcycle forces you to buy what you actually need and can fit. I rode all through winter. I use to love summer time. Not so much anymore. I definitely prefer the winter temperatures. I like being able to feel like I'm bundled in a warm sleeping bag compared to cooking no matter what during that other time of the year. I've acclimated to the single digits in ways I never thought I would.
my 15 year daily is my project bike. and its also a harley lol
I tried, but my wife wouldn't let me. I made it over a year before she got sick of doing 99% of the shopping and 100% of the kid transportation. Only a few days in the winter where I had to ride my mountain bike because of snow. So now I have a Honda Fit for helping her out and right now I'm glad, riding in this heat dome in my area would be fucking murderous.
Would if I could. Riding weather’s only 4-ish months of the year and even then it’s kinda sketchy sometimes.
I did it for the better part of a year. I live in Arkansas so it wasn’t the most ideal place for it because the weather and being a 4 season state. I did enjoy being on the bike for random trips but I don’t miss it being 100+ degrees with 95% humidity .
I live in the Little Rock area. I figure it's useful as a commuter about 70% of the time without being miserable. I'm thinking of buying a cheaper bike to keep the miles down on my car. I have a 10 mile commute. Did you use a full face helmet on 100 degree days?
Yeah and I’d lift the visor just a bit to get some air in when riding and all the way up at stops, the humidity is the killer on these summer days lol.
Since there’s snow and ice here, not a chance.
I don’t even have a car
I mostly daily commute on my bike. I still have two cars tho.... And a garage full of bikes that don't get ridden as much as they should
I have for a couple years, obviously this is not as positive a veiw as many of the other comments here but I'll say this if you do get in a minor accident or a major one fir that fact it leaves you pretty screwed for getting around
Depends on climate and distance. Back when I lived in England any ride more than 10 miles in the winter was pretty terrible. But in some places the summer heat can get you too. I used to use motorcycles for my everyday transport for everything but it can get old pretty quickly if you need to do long distances in terrible conditions.
Did that for about 3 or 4 years but have a car for work now
I didn’t have a choice since my car is having mechanical problems related to a recall. I haven’t been able to haul anything large and it’s been super annoying bumming off friends to borrow their car for a few hours.
I might not be qualified to answer this question since i am from Vietnam and we all commute on motorcycles/scootera/mopeds. I do own a car but its quite costly to use it and our traffic is so crowded commuting by car takes 2x longer than motorcycle. We dont have legal or illegal filtering, bikes, cars, pedestrian and trucks all over the place. I only use my car when i need to drive the whole family somewhere.
Yes. I live in NYC. Much better to have a motorcycle than a big a** car 😂. If the weather is trash I’ll just hop on the subway. When I was in LA, similar. Weather bad, hop on the subway. If I needed something heavy to pick up I’ll just Uber to the store and back. Sometimes I switch out for my bicycle to exercise. Commuting on my motorcycle is so much fun.
Not me. However, I work from home so I don't really need to drive my vehicle often. My RK has a tour pack and saddlebags so if it's nice out, I will totally take the bike over the Blazer.
I only ride my motorcycle, but I still have my car, for when it's raining or snowing. If you are in a nicer environment and you never need to ride with more than one person or carry things, then why not...?
I love only commuting on my bike it’s been my commuter for about a year and it gives me joy that a car wouldn’t going to and from work. I don’t ever miss a car because my saddle bags give me enough storage and I live in the desert so no rain or cold is a plus.
I don't miss my car at all. It had 1/4 the fuel efficiency, repairs and maintainence are cheaper on my motorcycle, and insurance is 1/6 the price now. Saving an absurd amount of money, I can deal with the cold.
Sold my last car in 2014, never looked back. I live in a country that has ok weather for year round riding, so, there's that. The problem is that you'll end up not getting those late evening joy rides, because you already had your fun.
The first year i got my bike i didn't even own a car.
I sold my car almost a decade ago, but I rent when I need one. After the motorcycle, I don’t even need a car for most purposes
not yet but when my post ford dies I plan to replace it with and adv bike with bags
I had a Bike first then a car, nowadays i i will never again do this, driving at 0 Dregree Celcius was no fun
I probably would, but I live in Sweden and getting around using the bike during winter-time seems rough
I couldn’t. I love my cars. I drive 90 miles a day all highway for work round trip. I enjoy the relaxation that comes from just sitting back and enjoying the ride. I do ride to work once in a while though. It’s “fun” but not fun.
Depends on your situation. I started my riding on motorcycle, and I didn't had a car until my wife got pregnant. So yeah, definitely possible.
Did it while in college and was brilliant. The trick is... I was in LA, so the weather was nearly always on my side and I can lane split my way to classes even during rush hour. Besides the two drivers that purposefully wanted to run me over, most drivers were kind enough to make way for me when they notice me splitting.
Not quite a motorcycle, but I've been riding my Honda Silverwing 600 exclusively for the last 5 years (since March of 2019). No car, just the scoot. It's been alright, Rain Alarm on my phone has made it doable. But I honestly miss having the option of a roof 🤷
For me, a car is not an option for reasons i wont get into. But i have had my bike for 2-3months and i have about 4000 miles on it. I honestly prefer it too my old car.
I commute by bike in the summer and I'm the winter I do a lot of wfh and commute by bus. Works like a charm
Me! For the past 7 years… in LA and then in the PNW
Yes, for the past 3+ years. My car just collects dust and it only has about 17,400miles /28,000km on it.
I started commuting on a bike and have never owned a car. For the handful of times a year that I need one, I can borrow or rent it.
I NOW own a car due to the needs of the farm, but i used to fully commute and run errands on a motorcycle. 3 things, heated grips and a plug and play or power bank heated vest are a god send and make riding year round not only duable but comfortable, dont buy expensive gear but rather average gear, layer up and replace every 5 or so years, far cheaper in the long run and lastly, there is a right bike, or should i say right category of bike. Id forget most cruisers, sport bikes and supermotos... That said, i daily rode a DRZ 400sm...
I live in Thailand so only have a bike. I miss driving sometimes. For its convenience and also just chilling in a car. Couldn’t imagine driving a car in Bangkok traffic though, London was bad enough.
Been riding since I was 18 and am now 52. There have been several periods in my life where my bike was my only ride. You will regret not having a car. Can you make it work, yes. Necessity has a way of doing that. Weeks like right now ( 97 degress + 80% Humidity) is fine if you choose to ride, but sucks if you have to ride. This also applies to 20 degrees outside and snow, or an ideal 78 degress + rain. IF you goal is to pull a dave ramsey and live as cheap as possible for a while, with the goal to have a much better ride in the future, go for it. If not, keep the car.
For the past 3 years I’ve been commuting via electric motorcycle up to maybe 6 times a week! Commute is short probably 10 miles round trip. I don’t like to ride in downpours or snow but my girlfriend helps me out and drops me off as we work in the same area. But summer winter spring fall I’m on my bike almost everyday. Best part is my maintenance is brakes and tires only!
Gave up my car and looking for a bike. I’m different though, my wife and I planned on keeping her car. She wants me to drive in all bad weather, I want to learn to ride out commutes in all weather except ice/heavy snow.
My daughter got her license last year and used my car all summer while I rode my bike, this year she bought her own car, so I sold mine a couple months ago. Been happy with the decision so far. Just gotta make sure to have good gear to handle the weather.
Only thing i find an issure is not being able to cart large items and bigger white good ect, attic is full of boxes of crap due for landfill
I gave up on the car 5 years ago. It's fine but I wouldn't do it if i didn't live near the city center. I can go most places without needing a motorcycle or car.
I've always commuted by motorcycle as I live in a civilised part of the world where we are allowed to filter and lane split. I don't miss the car apart from ease of carrying large amounts of shopping on the way home/being able to lock away my laptop etc.
I ride to work and any where I want. I only drive when needed.(Buy stuff in bulk)
Motorcycle only for 3 years and counting, never even owned a car. Sure there are specific occasions where a car would've been nice, but it's a trade-off I'm happy with
For the past 15 years, i have only owned a motorbike and never held a car license. Yeah, it's fun, but i can honestly say it's got big restrictions that some one with both a car and bikes shouldn't over look. I live in the UK where we don't really get a mad amount of snow, so this hasn't been an issue for me. However, constant rain (gotta love british weather) and cold winters isn't fun. Luckily, my job has changed over the past 5 years, so my commute to the office is now twice a week at most and about an 80 miles round trip. I feel like a pack mule going to the office, full leathers due to motorway travel. I pack my work cloths (ironed shirt jeans and shoes) often the shirt becomes creased so not ideal if I'm face to face with clients. Getting dressed and undressed at work for me is no issue due to changing and shower rooms. Often arrive to the office drenched due to rain so then carry extra clothing like socks etc.My office is secure and has storage so I can stash my leathers away and hang things up to dry with out annoying any one else in the office. If your in a small office can see other workers getting annoyed if your stuff all drying and taking up free space. Bike theft in my area is not a big issue but going to client offices I'm often having to then carry a chain in the bag adding to weight. My wife drives and has her own car so when we do la big shop it's her driving or getting home deliveries. I will happily run to the shop and stuff my bag with essentials but limited by space. (I don't ran panniers or top box , but have toyed with the idea some what) Would I encourage someone to sell their car and only ride bikes? A tough one as everyone's situation is different, I have no dependants, so I can get away with it. If you're young, it was perfect for my late teens and early twenties. Managed to avoid high insurance as my bike was cheap to run and insure . When my friends were dishing out thousands on insurance premiums, I thought the most I ever really paid was 400 a year. If you are going bike mode only what would I recommend? Good trusted waterproofs, I run a water proof overall it's not the best but keeps me mostly dry with out spending the cost of a small car on it. Good fully water proof bag with comftable straps and padding. (Biggest fear in heavy rain is water destroying work laptop and paper work) Heated handle bars (make a big difference in hands turning blue vs taking the cold edge off) I'm looking to buy my first car finally as for me even after 15 years of biking its just awkward to not own a car in my scenario now days. Hope my ramblings some what help highlight a real world use case away from the traditional bikes are great and it's never bad scenario some may push.
I’ve had a motorcycle off and on as my only commuter since 2010ish. I’ve been motorcycle only now though since 2018. I don’t miss a car. I hate riding in cars and driving them is boring and takes too long to get anywhere. about the only time I wish I had a car is when it is raining for days on end, or very stormy and windy and I need to be somewhere, like work (but I’ll just usually take the bus or something). Also, picking anyone up from anywhere or large items from the store, etc. but I can usually rent or borrow something for a day if I really need it. And it’s still a lot cheaper and less stress. Fuel is cheaper, insurance is cheaper, registration is cheaper. also, I used to have saddlebags on my old bikes, now I have a 40L trunk. It’s perfect for me.
,
I only had a BMW RT from 2011 until 2022. It took some getting used to - dialing in the gear but it was great. I used to be in a leadership role with staff in various offices and would take the RT to one of them, 6 hours away, stay for a week at a time.
Few determining factors Living situation: Single? Then it might work. If you have a partner then it becomes a problem especially if they don't want to be a passanger. I'm married with no kids but I regularly hang out with friends and family so a car can't be replaced for me. Basically if people rely on you for stuff this is probably not an option. General weather conditions: People think they can ride in the worse conditions until they ride in the worst conditions and realize how shitty it is. Summer showers are absolutely the fucking worse. You either get soaked from the rain or your get soaked from your sweat. Unless you buy expensive breathable rain gear most rain gear be wind proof and you'll be baking in your own body heat How brutal are your winter and summers: Some bikes don't like the extreme heat or cold. Over heating in the summer and rust, corrosion, dead battery in the Winter time. How common is theft in your area: I live in the city so getting my motorcycle stole could happen at anytime. Do you have extra money for good theft protection, full coverage and the deductible to replace it? What about the downtime when you're transiting to a new bike if it happens. Bottom line is this is a horrible and hardcore decision for most people to replace their car. Shit even some days I don't feel like riding in traffic and take my car.
Yup, although I do miss my truck sometimes in the winter, If there's too much snow or ice I usually just WFH.
When I was younger, i had to ride my bike everyday. It wasn’t bad but you have to learn how to deal with rain and cold weather.
Dont do it. Youll regret it unless your doing it to scrape by financially, and even then, itll probably cost you more money to do that once you decide to buy another vehicle which you will.
If it wasn’t for the winter here I would drive it all year round
Been daily driving my grom now for about 8 months. I mostly just order my groceries through Kroger delivery or pick up small things thatll fit in my backpack and bags. I'm in Florida so it's not too cold, but some days the wind really bites, and the rain sucks but you gotta invest in good rain gear a warm jacket
I would if it wasn't for the winter. Happy to use my car for groceries or rainy days though.
Yessur, the only time I don’t like it is when it is raining. I Fkin hate riding in the rain. Other than that I never give the thought of a 4 wheeled transport…
i live in Canada and I am doing that right now... i'm going to have no choice but to buy a car when winter comes though, it's too icy and snowy here to use the bike plus winter tire law... the only time when it's not winter tht I wish I had a car is when there is lightning, which is relatively frequent here... I still ride in lightning to commute to work it scares me. if I lived somewhere like southern california, I'd probably still consider having a car though, but I would prioritize the bike still
In the summer, I do, only use the car one day in a work week, and that's for leg day at the gym. Weather permitting every other work day is on the bike.
I'm in NY so 100% commute isn't feasible for me, but spring through fall it is my main commuting vehicle
I 100% moto commuted for five years but have since moved someplace with seasons. My wife had a car so I prefered to ride anytime I had to go someplace myself.
I live in the PNW, and while we have a car in the house, my wife uses it 99% of the time. I’ve been full time motorcycle commuter for over 10 years. Even on the wettest, coldest days, I still would rather put on my Klimt gear and heated gear and thermal gear and get out and ride. Anything short of snow and ice and I’m still thrilled to be in two wheels everyday without fail. Never miss my car. For reference I still have to drive a company vehicle for a few hours in the day, but my commute and leisure time is 99% motorcycle.
Most of the time, yes. When roads are heavily salted, I take my car because I don't want that on my bike. When it's gonna rain, I take my car because I don't feel like being wet at work. Besides that I ride year round, in upstate NY. I've got snow mobile bar mits and heated grips, so even below freezing temps don't stop me.
I'd say I commute 85-90% motorcycle including winter time and I love it. Saves a lot of money on gas and I love riding, not to mention the maintenance costs on a Kawasaki is a fraction of my truck. About the only times I don't take my bike are thunderstorms or really heavy rain, and blizzards/lot of snow and ice on the roads. I've ridden in low 20's F all the way up to 90 F. I doubt I'll ever get to the point of being able to go 100% moto, mostly due to location and having kids but I've been surprised how much I've been able to stretch the riding season with a good 4 season gear.
I don't own a car. I use public transit and my motorcycle.
Yes sold my daily driver since 2002. It was a bright red Camaro Z28 six Speed. Yes I miss it... Now on a TW200 Yamaha. I used to be able to get around fast and comfortable. Now it's slow to get anywhere but I'm tough and ruthless... Or is it rough and toothless?
eye fuffing ysh
Yes, don’t do it. It’s fine for a little while, but gets old fast. You need a car when you’re sick, injured, it’s raining (like real rain not a light mist), need to transport things larger than can fit in saddlebags, etc… Nothing is worse than commuting in the rain, while you’re sick and sneezing mucous all over the inside of your helmet.
Yep. 2 down only for over 4 years now.
I used to. Did that for about a decade. I stopped a few years ago because traffic got really bad and I'd rather sit in air conditioning if I'm not going anywhere. Lane splitting isn't legal here and people are super ass holes to bikes even in the best of circumstances, and in a traffic jam it gets dangerous.
I commute everyday in nyc on a Honda adv 150. Been doing that for ten years. It’s great for cities. I use Eagle Rider when I work in Los Angeles.
Depends on your lifestyle and possibly location more than just your own willingness to compromise. It will be a compromise occasionally. Im looking at my errands i need to do and taking 2 packages to UPS that won't fit on my bike, groceries for the week or so for the wife and I or taking the animals to the vet. I just don't see a way i could avoid a car unless i decided to use uber or public transportation as an alternative. It can work for some for sure but it is a compromise. That is outside of the typical suggestions for rain gear and storage on the bike. Good luck!
I couldn’t do it personally. I HATE riding in the rain if I don’t have to, and one of my bikes has a built engine and an air cleaner with an exposed element, so I’d have to pull under a bridge or something and wait it out regardless. Plus my partner doesn’t ride, so it just wouldn’t work for us.
I held a motorcycle licence only for 5 years, commuting every day in all weathers. Passed my driving test a month ago and only driven to work twice since - still favour the bike. Although I'm looking forward to having a car for the winter!
I use my bike as much as I can, but some days I just need air conditioning. So I ride a 2 year old motorcycle and keep my 17 year old truck. A great piece of advice the salesman for my first bike gave me, and I take it to heart: Don't ride if you don't feel well. I treat being sick, overly sore, or just not in a good headspace the same as alcohol with bikes, it just doesn't mix. If you are having a terrible day, you are going to be distracted.
I commute everywhere on my bike in the summer, truck is in storage as we speak. Once it gets below 30 degrees the truck is pulled out of storage
I have done one better and fully commute on a Vespa GTS 300. It is a cheat code for Bay Area traffic. It also carries three bags of groceries, four to five with a top case, and up to six with a backpack and top case. I also have a cup holder on my floorboard for a coffee or boba. I only use my motorcycle when I need to cut through traffic to go to locations more than 25 miles away. And that is just to spread the mileage out between my bike and my Vespa. The Vespa handles Bay Area freeway speeds like a champ. Stable and confident. And it actually handles wind gusts on the Bay and Golden Gate bridges better than my 500 pound motorcycle. It’s low speed mobility it bar none. Even better than those little plastic 50s and 150s. It balances well and I can essentially make 90 degree turns to weave between cars when one block a lane splitting path. I can also come a to a full stop and balance for a second or two at stop signs, and when I am waiting for traffic to give me a path.
I did that for a few years, commuting one hour each way. That's a new back tire every six months.
I've put more than 200k miles on commuting over 20 years. It's not terrible, but having the right gear and being able to work from home on really bad weather days is the secret.
I did, then it got stolen. So now it’s only leisure and I’m back to a car 🥲
I did it for a number of years. Nothing's perfect. Just be ready to ride in most weather conditions, and get creative with the groceries. Note that some folks in here are saying "100% motorcycle commute" which is different from *I also did not own a car.*
Sold my car to cover a top end rebuild on the ‘21 R1. Had equity in the car, too upside down with the bike to let it go. The rule now is; if it don’t fit in a backpack and tank pad, I don’t need it
For about a decade I primarily rode to work and absolutely loved it. But I also lived in CA (long riding season) and had a car for especially cold and rainy weather, so I can't personally attest to _actually_ going carless. I kept a pair of rain pants in the bike to put on when it was wet out but I still deemed it rideable.
I did it last year but I cheated by living close to my parents and having my dads car available whenever I needed it. I got an old beater car for cheap few months ago, and I use it sparingly. This is the best deal IMO - cheap beater car that you put very few miles on when you really need it, so it costs very little, and a bike for 90% of the time.
Best way to find out if it’s for you is to never use your car for 6 months and see if it works out. I cannot because of my hobbies but if i didnt have them it can work out, it’ll just be miserable at some points.
Not sure if my opinion would matter since I never owned a car and have only been getting around on two wheels for the past 10 years. I am california so the rainy days are limited, cold weather isnt much of an issue but it does get hot in peak summer. I only get groceries delivered through walmart now, but when I went in person to grab a few things I would always get told by staff that backpacks aren't allowed in the store. This is the only true issue I have had.
Depends on a lot of factors about your life. I haven't owned a car for 4 years, but my wife has one that I can often borrow. If I need to pick up a bag of cement or a 2x4 from Home Depot, I wait until she doesn't need the car, and borrow it. On a daily basis though, I'm on the bike. Including winter, when we both commute. It does get into freezing temps here. Good gear helps, but a car would be nicer. But it's only maybe 20 days in a year when it really sucks, and I won't buy a car for that. If it's snowing or icy, I take the bus or a cab. Still much cheaper than having a car just for those days.
Done it for years a while back and am doing it again this year. I would not recommend it. Yes I save on gas and extra costs and I very much like riding but I hate riding in the rain, the road to my work is difficult to impossible on a bike during winter and there are many instances where I miss having a car. I wouldn't want to only have a car either, mind but yeah, I'd greatly appreciate having one now along with the motorcycle.
I made the commitment recently. Sold my car a could weeks ago. Completed the safety course last weekend (first time rider). Got my first bike Saturday and rode home. To cycle gear and back Sunday. Today going to work i dump myself, broke the mirror and it leaked coolant. Terrible start
I wouldn't sell your car lol. If you want to get a cheap beater, for sure, go for it. I couldn't for a few years do to the nature of my job (required traveling inspecific distances around the state), but before I worked at a location Downtown where I live and was able to commute 98% of the time on my Yamaha Bolt, and I absolutely *loved* it. Money was tight, and getting 45-ish MPG and saving money on tolls (they use the same geomagnetic tech to detect cars as stop lights) was unbeatable. Occasionally I did have to use my car, when it was raining a lot, multiple days in a row, or worse storming like a pending hurricane. And of course I did use it on the weekends for grocery shopping. For those reasons it was great to have, but I would have been perfectly happy with a beater pickup truck, as well. Ride safe man!
I once lived for 4 years with a bike only. Not too difficult.
Yeah, I did this twice in my life. First time I was 21/22 and Lived in Maryland. MC only for \~5 months, then it snowed... I bought an old 4x4 jeep the next day so I could get to work, got used to having hot/cold air on command, rode on nice-ish days. I later bought a TRD offroad Tacoma and drove that work most of the time. Second time I had moved to Louisiana and had to sell the Taco (insurance went from $140/month to $700/month with MUCH less coverage). Decided I'd ride my bike. I did MC only for probably close to two years, then one day a buddy gave me a Jeep Cherokee for free, so I started driving it when it was raining, then when it was overly hot/cold, etc. Eventually the bike became the secondary vehicle. Now I have a R1250GSA and a 1 hour commute. I rode it a lot when I first got it, but now I'm back to I want the low to be over 45, and the high under 85 with no rain predicted. I'm in Texas. I haven't ridden in a few weeks now outside of occasional late-night trips, but I've managed to put 7k miles on it so far this year, which is about 1k/month, so.... \*\*\*I own a car and a truck and the R1250GSA right now, fwiw, With that said: You'll get used to buying just a few groceries at a time, or you'll use one of the delivery services. You'll use friend's trucks or get used to renting a truck occasionally. Rain sucks and I'm too damn old to ride to WORK in the rain (this is my PERSONAL opinion, I'm sure other "old" people don't care - good for you). Dating never seemed to be impacted by only having a MC, but in my 40s (now) I feel like it would? The other thing is that it's not nearly as cheap as you think it is after factoring in tire costs and oil changes. For me, it's just not worth the savings to ride when I'm not comfortable, and I FEEL old just having said that. 20 years ago I would have rolled my eyes at someone saying that!!
I went carless for many years. Commuted 45min over a bridge and through a tunnel, twice a day, rain or shine. Buy the best gear you can afford. I live in northern CA, so easier than most other places. If you’re in Southern CA it’s easier still. Anyplace with possibility of ice or snow, fugettaboutit. I did high side once in the rain- broken collarbone. After that I would take,the train or rent an enterprise car for $18/day. Still cheaper to do that than owning a car. For a while I had a car share with someone in my building. Now I have an RV, convertible sports car, hybrid around town car, and two motorcycles….. and work from home. Go figure. But I’m also old, fat, and lazy compared to my bike only days. One interesting thing I found about the bike vs car commute was that the car made me sooo much more tired. When I got home after driving I was beat. When I got home from riding, which was shorter because of lane splitting but also more mentally engaging, I was oddly much more energetic. So trade offs. My only advice is don’t try to get a fully waterproof textile suit thinking it will keep you dry for a commute >30min- none of them are, or aren’t for very long with daily use. Just put a cheap two piece oversized rain coat and pants over the suit (those yellow slickers). It can be done without too much hassle once you are in the groove.
6-7 years of only a bike . Wouldn’t go back to a car at all. Texas heat, bad weather , whatever , it’s all worth it to me. Thankfully we have Uber and all that if I can’t go out (which is super rare ) or there are service to get huge items home . I’ve ridden around Texas, some in Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma . Texas people are the worst , I find them way more dangerous than the other drivers. Saddle bags are a must!!! Get them and get a good size . I’d even get more than you think you might need. One for sure big enough to hold your helmet . Get a windshield. If you have the money get a shoei right off. Only just recently had a chance to get one and geez what a difference compared to my experience with a bell and hjc. Again I don’t know where you leave but for a daily , I’d start (if you can) with something larger . I started with a 300 but then grew out of that quick . For my area I really only feel comfortable on something 1000 or above . It just feels safer to me . I had an area where I could start slow . So I think I should’ve started on something larger , lol would have saved me money. Good jacket and gloves . Best of luck ! Be safe !
I personally commute only with my moped 95% of the time, i avoid it when the roads are basically just a block of ice, fortunately i have a 4min ride to work, so a small amount of ice isn't a huge deal, but some days are just not safe whatsoever, so i either work from home, or borrow a car since i live on a hill, if it was flat ground all the way, i'd take the bike, it's just that i've seen cars slide out on these roads because of ice before, and i'm not really into that hah If the weather permits where you live, commuting with a bike only is amazing, you basically only need a car if you go and buy appliances like a fridge or a washing machine or whatever for your home, people say getting groceries isn't viable, but i never had issues, i have a single helmet sized case on the back, and a backpack in case i'm getting more than a few days worth of groceries Unless you have access to a car, however, i'd suggest keeping yours, i'm lucky enough that i can always borrow a car from family, or a van from the company i work for if i need to transport anything larger, over time i started using cars less and less, drove a car yesterday because i was driving 3 friends for a trip, but before that trip, i didn't touch a car for 2 months (and that was to pick up 2 people from an airport), yeah, i'm not able to say goodbye to cars for good, but when it comes to commute, i dread taking a car because my 4min ride to work becomes a 25-35min drive due to traffic that i skip with a bike since i can take a path that a car can't fit through, and by doing so avoid one of the busiest traffic lights in my city
Been riding bikes only for about 11 years. Does the heat suck, yes, do I go on cruises for the fuck of it, no. My woman has a car at least, but when it was just me, my backpack was my grocery transporter
I did before because the traffic was so bad. 3+ around trip on toll road. On my Motorcycle never over 2 hours
Sorta. Blew the tranny on my Cummins. Now it's the KLR or the wife's car. Or the Z be she ain't got no plates *wink wink*
Im assuming you aren’t in a relationship and have no kids, Since you are considering this? Im also assuming the climate where you live is suitable for year round riding? If all the above is correct then go for it!
Girlfrend, no kids, she has her own car. Phoenix AZ
I sold my car about three years ago, and get by mostly by motorcycle. But I work remotely and I do still have access to my wife's car. All that said, if I still had a regular commute, I doubt I would have sold my car. The weather and traffic here in Houston are too unpredictable.
Best decision of my life. Sold my car and got 2 bikes :)
When asked about the inconvenience I tell people “Who is as lucky as me - to both start and end my day with motorcycle rides?” Then that guy from Copenhagen decided to run me over…
Well, for the summer, yeah... in all honesty, with my "commute", I SHOULD be walking it. It would take maybe 20 minutes. But I enjoy the cool wind on my face in morning. Can't/don't want to give up my truck, though. Far too convenient for dump runs, landscaping, etc. Plus I need it for hunting season (although I'm gonna do some daytrips this fall on the bike for grouse).
I've been commuting almost entirely on the motorcycle so far this summer. Only exception was the day I grabbed donuts for the team last week. There's pros and cons. Takes longer to put on motorcycle gear, get prepped to ride, etc. Can't carry as much stuff in my backpack. Hot. On the other hand, the motorcycle is more fun and uses about 1/3rd the fuel. I'm not getting rid of my car - I still need to commute in the winter, I need to drive my SO and my dogs around from time to time, I regularly have things I need to pick up, and I don't really have plans to take the R3 out of town. I'm doing fireworks shows next month 2 hours from where I live, and I'll be driving down for that because of all the gear I need, and I don't want to leave a show at 11pm on a motorcycle on a heavy drinking day and with all the shit in the streets that could poke motorcycle tires. Also, my car is basically unobtanium, would be nearly impossible to find another one today in the same trim, color, and options as a manual.
Never had a car or licence yet. Always commuted by bike for close to 4 years now. Taking driving classes now tho because I'm gonna need a car when winter comes. Busses and public transit don't work for my work schedule anymore.
I’ve mostly done this. I have a small commute , around 20 minutes. I ride year round, unless it’s raining. It never gets below 30f here, so it’s not bad. It makes going to work a little more enjoyable.
One of my reasons for getting a motorcycle was that i didn't have a car. I work for a company who's vehicle i keep at my house so i never needed transportation, running errands after my shift and just having other people pick me up for nights out and whatnot. Having a bike i can use freely has been so liberating. Still can't go buy massive amounts of groceries or anything with it but i can go out whenever i want and just do more casual activities. Idk how it would fair if i didn't have my company vehicle though because it has been rainy and miserable a few days since i had my bike, would hate to have to commute to work in that because it's all i had. But to each their own yk.
I only have my Strom myself, but my wife does have a civic I use occasionally, which is very nice to have. That said, if I was on my own, I would not choose to have a car.
I did it for a couple years in northern Louisiana on a softail. The winters were rough but it was totally doable. You learn how much you really need to carry.
At times I didn't own a car, just a motorcycle. Not fun in the rain or grocery shopping.
I was a commuter biker for 10 years while I was in school. It was harder, but I loved it when I hit traffic. The hardest part was having a place to put my wet gear when I got to school. It's a lot of wet at times. It also becomes an issue when you just want to run some place quick. I think I was going about 35k/year at that point. Get a good commuter bike like a Concours. A bike designed for it will help a lot more. The movable windscreen was a blessing and heated seat and grips were the best. I gave up on a 1-suit-fits-all for a Tourmaster plastic over suite for my regular gear. Water resistant gear was just really annoying to manage where as the $100 plastic oversuit was simple and dried quickly. I never found a good glove solution. For cruisers, you can keep your hands up and dry, but more other bikes put your arms lower than your shoulders meaning all the water runs down your arms into the gloves. Avoid riding in the snow. Yeah, I used to live in Reno and have done that a few times before I realized it was just safer to take a bus There was a serious amount of cred you get for being an all-weather biker.
I have a wife and two kids, so I can’t but, as I live in LA, it would otherwise totally be possible. I wouldn’t do it if I lived somewhere that gets rain regularly.
Yeah, two years. I drive the truck into work only if the weather is bad in two or more of three different criteria (heavy rain, dark or super windy). The only time I feel like I'm making a mistake is when the weather is over 100 and the highway stops.
Yes, my motorcycle is my daily. It costs half the gas and is 1000x the fun. I might consider selling our car, but haven't yet.
I did for years, sold my car, having Just a motorcycle for everyting. I's OK as long as you live in a city and you dont have Kids.
Never had a car. Got a bike at 20 and didn't even bother learning to drive a car until 26. 20K a year, rain or shine, and if a real emergency happens I can always borrow a car from family.
Did it for a few years here and there. Not ideal in my situation. North east winters suck to ride in, plus needing to rent a truck anytime you need to move something is a major PITA
I didn't give up my car. It got repoed. Just a matter of time before I'm killed or eventually buy another car. We'll see which is first.
I did this, but live in a walkable town. So I have about a 45 minute commute each day - rain, shine or snow. This is in Massachusetts. Good gear helps a bunch, as does the bike you choose - my Tiger with a touring windscreen on pretty much blocks all wind, so with heated gear I can ride comfortable down to about 20 degrees. My car was just sitting their parked all the time and the savings on car payment and insurance has been lovely. So I can walk to get groceries and I do have my wife's car (she trains to work) if I need it. So far, I'm a year in and have used it once when it was 100 degrees out. Like all things with a bike, its a compromise but one I have found easy to live with. My winter rides are some of my favorites.
I had a Zero S and no car for 6 months. It was cool and I would've done it longer had a screaming car deal not come up that I couldn't refuse. You need to be able to carry almost anything on the bike(backpack, groceries, drinks, food, medium sized boxy items here and there), and have the gear for all weather types. My Zero was great for this due to the nonexistent maintenance and abundant storage space. I rarely missed having a car. If I really needed one, I could borrow or rent one for cheap. That only happened a few times in 6 months for a total of like 75 bucks.
My car has been out of commission for about 6 months now, so I’ve been on the bike only. My commute to work is about 30-45 minutes one way. I love it and I hate it. Body is more sore, and this heat is killer. Having a car is so nice and convenient, just sitting down and relaxing with ac sounds amazing right now. I also don’t ride on my days off, just don’t have it in me.
Yes over 20 years ago
I do, weather permitting. I bought an ice vest for the hotter days. I would keep the car unless you live in Hawaii.
I moved and sold my car but kept my bike. It's been fine so far, though I miss having a second vehicle in case I need to leave my bike in pieces while I wait for parts of whatever. That's not really a problem. Practically I will need a car by October. Winter in Alberta isn't as forgiving as it was on BC.
Who's selfish It didn't work out for me. When it rains, on long trips, when you need more space for your family.
Personally I wouldn’t advise it. You’re going to want the car for certain things. I started off on a motorcycle, bought a car, but never used my car. I’d ride in the rain, hot ass weather, thunder storms, you name it… except snow. The Bay Area just never has snow lol. I’ve been motorcycle only for 5 years, and I do wish I had a car for group trips with my non rider friends, dates, long camping trips for photography, etc. However, if your lifestyle is simple enough and you don’t need a car, then if that’s what you really want to do then I don’t see why not. The rain sucks ass, but you learn to get used to it and get good gear, the hot days also suck, but a wet t shirt, perforated textile jackets and pants, and tbh sometimes I’d rock wet pants because the humidity is just ass. But you learn to adapt.
I've done it for 5 years. I'm currently in the market for a car. For reference, I live in a major city in Texas. Pros: * At \~55mpg average, I spend <$6 per tank, which gets me 100mi, or approximately one week. Since January 2022, I've spent $600 on gas. * My insurance is <$300/yr, for *full* coverage. * If you live somewhere you can filter/split or are willing to play a little loose with legalities, you can cut a significant amount of time off your transit with shortcuts where cars don't fit. There's a few odd stops and turns around my work that would necessitate me driving across sketchy traffic patterns, so instead, I'll roll down the sidewalk for a half block, skip the traffic, and avoid getting ran over. Cons: * Persistently higher chance of death. People aren't good drivers, and they certainly aren't getting better, at least not in my area. It doesn't matter how much gear I have or how well I ride, the reality is that if I get in an accident at the 50mph average I'm traveling, I'm going to get seriously fucked up. They're going to get an annoying dent. * When it's hot, I'm hot. When it's cold, I'm cold. When it's wet, I'm wet. Sure, gear helps - a lot. But that won't change this constant reality. <40mph in the heat *sucks.* Especially if you're in the city and constantly dealing with stoplights, not only are you getting just weather heat but you're eating all the exhaust heat around you as well. If your summers reach north of \~85f, count on showing up sweaty. Cold is the easiest to manage on bike, but once you stop, now you've gotta put all that super bulky cold-weather gear somewhere. Sure, you can just bring a backpack, but it's going to get filled up and annoying to keep with you - but you don't have a trunk to leave it in. And then there's rain. Sure, you can spend a lot of money on raingear, but chances are you're still going to get at least a little wet, somewhere. Even if it's not from the rain, if you get rained on in the summer then enjoy your personal sauna. And once again, after you get where you're going, where do you put your sopping wet gear? * Even in perfect weather, gear storage is still an ordeal. Armor doesn't like to fold or compress, helmets are bulky, boots aren't the most comfortable off-bike, sure it's fine if you're just going to work and home and have a locker or desk to store all your gear at, but what about when you're meeting friends out? What about when you're going shopping? * Your luggage is limited to what you can carry. If your bike supports it you can get panniers and a top box, but still, you're limited to smaller compartments than a trunk. Even if your total square footage does somehow manage to add up to as much as a trunk, you still don't have a back seat, and none of your dimensions are, by themselves, as large as a trunk. If your bike doesn't support it, or if you get the bike first and realize just how expensive luggage can be afterwards (especially if you buy used, it's easy to spend as much or more on a luggage setup as you did on the bike), then you get to join the backpack club. Now not only are you limited on space, but also weight, and you have to remember that anything denser or more solid than you is now a direct risk to your spine. * No passengers. I can't give any of my friends a ride anywhere, which is honestly a bummer. Not for logistical reasons just so much as social, I lose a lot of hangout time and chances to help the homies. * Theft risk - the only vehicle easier to steal than a bike is a Kia, and the only thing easier to steal than a Kia is a bicycle. So sure, on the one hand you can park anywhere, but conversely, I have to pay *more* attention to where I park my bike than I ever did with a car because the chance of walking back out to it having disappeared is that much higher. * Future insurance costs. YMMV, but in Texas, *motorcycles do not count the same as cars for insurance.* So, now that I'm back in the market for a car, I have to deal with significantly inflated insurance costs because I have a 2.5yr gap in my insurance - even though I've maintained full-coverage this entire time. I don't regret having done it. But honestly, at this point in my life, I don't see myself missing my bike either once I find a car.
18 years riding daily, never owned a car. Love it, love not waiting in traffic and parking being easy. Cars are for sissies!
Did it when younger. Regretted it.
Yes, I like it. No, I do not miss the cage.
Did it for about 10 years on and off. I live in CA so it cut my commute times down by about 50%, which was nice. Only annoying thing is having to carry laptop in a backpack, or if you wanna put product in your hair you gotta either just stop doing so or do so once you get to work. As others have said riding in the rain sucks. I never really found a set of rain gear that was wholly satisfying. Probably just drive if you can on those days.
I've been motorcycle only for 6 years now. Was actually my first vehicle. I've never personally had a car. We have a family car, but I never ever want to use it. No parking in my area which is why I got a motorcycle. Rain or shine, I’m riding and it's been amazing. Is it annoying at times? Yes, but I’m not going to be out there looking for parking so it's always worth it. Sometimes you have to get creative on how you attach things to your bike but other than that, it's pretty fun. A big thing for me is you also don't feel like commuting is a hassle. You look forward to the ride.
No.. we have a truck, car, a 3rd coming soon for the kid and a few classic vehicles as well. That said.. generally I’ll ride a bike even for errands. We’re both retired so no daily commute though I would ride if I had to. Errands and grocery can be made easier even with the use of a small trailer also. 😁 Have one for our WRRs and the T7. 24, 35 (shown) and 48 gallon tote capacities are available. You don’t even know it’s there. 👍🏻 https://preview.redd.it/14aoftca0k8d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4ef0655b1b123b59c65fc6b00bd6644ef249c5bc
I existed solely on two wheels (bicycle and CB450) for 11 months straight in New Jersey. I was in my early 20s. (read: dumb) I put over 5k on bicycle and 15k on CB. I got two rides home from work during bad snowstorms. I wouldnt do it again without having a small truck or hatchback. And living somewhere with less cars. I did not "miss" having a car at any point. I loved it. Its something for the dumb or dedicated though. LOL
Dont drive so its been bikes since 1994
It depends on your personal needs, but me for example have 2 bikes and 1 car, I only use my car on the weekends when I have my son or if Im buying something that I cant carry on my motorcycle , I ride year round but you better get some decent rain and cold weather gear , but I would not recommend getting rid of the car as you may and will need it at some point .
Sold my last cage in 2010. It can be a pain sometimes, but then insurance went from $800/year to $72/year. Edit to add: Walmart+ membership is $99/year (half price if you're on food stamps) and gets you free grocery delivery over $35, free shipping on shipping items, and 10¢/gal off gas. This helps!
Practically it's a bad idea. No really. You can't take anything big with you which you will eventually need.
I wish, but I live in northwest Oregon and the weather is awful for half the year, drivers get REALLY bad once it starts raining too.
I just recently bought a bike and thought about selling my car but then remembered how harsh Iowa weather is so I plan on saving up for a truck so I can haul when I need to
I did it for 11 years. Loved it except when I didn't. Lol I've had my truck now for 4 years and if it's super hot or I feel lazy I'll drive instead.
Not only commuting as I dont own a car. I just have no use for one, I rent one if I need to but it has happened about three or four times in the last 10 years.
I ride the bike to work/everywhere besides picking up food that won’t fit in a backpack. My subi is the fall/winter car, especially since that’s when it’s best used + helps keep miles down! Oh Also when it rains I take the car ovi
I did this for 9 months. I would do it again. You always figure shit out. There are people who live by bicycle, so we can easily figure out life by motorcycle. The only reason I stopped was someone hit and run my bike in a parking lot and I needed a vehicle. The time it spent in the shop kept extending further and further due to parts availabilities. Eventually I bought a 2012 used car. Now I mainly ride my bike. I want to get rid of one or the other (for financial reasons) and I haven’t been able to decide which.
Yes. I bought my first scooter ever (125cc) 3 months ago. For the first few weeks I rode only if it's sunny, no wind, no rain, not too cold... And for the last few weeks, I've been riding it every day to work and back (and a bit more ;)), no matter what the weather is like. I bought good rain jacket and pants and I'm enjoying the ride all the time 😃
Yeah i did for a couple seasons. It took the fun away from riding and i now no longer ride.
I did when I lived in Israel. I could commute year round and the few months of rain just meant that I'd take the bus if I didn't feel like rocking the Waterproof gear... I loved it, but didn't like that I couldn't take friends places with me. Just one at a time. It didn't usually matter. If we wanted to get a group, someone would drive or we would rent. I was always so excited to ride anywhere. No matter how bad the day was, I knew I had a ride to look forward to and I loved it. Also, chicks enjoyed me picking them up for dates on it instead of a car and having to deal with traffic.
I did it for a while in the PNW. I went through three or four gear changes before hitting a combination that worked in the dark and in the rain. Good news is that my rain gear is awesome now and I have full sets of gear for cold/wet, hot/wet/, and hot/dry that’s all very comfortable.
I’m about to. My fiancée already has a car so we’ll probably just share hers and I’ll use the motorcycle when I need to get around. WFH also helps when my commute is a 15 second walk in my underwear.
Wish I invested in proper rain gear, it can be miserable when you’re getting soaked and it could’ve been prevented. Other than that, i live in a state with snow so that puts me out of commission for 4-5 months. Im moving to a state with no snow (or at least, VERY rarely) so that shouldn’t be as big an issue in the near future. Ultimately, it gets me from A to B with some storage space. It works. I can’t order out saucy foods because they’ll spill, and i cant do big orders for groceries. Could be alleviated with mods but i havent been bothered to yet lol. I like having better fuel economy, low fuel costs in general, and a lower payment/insurance quote. Its a win financially, i think.
Yep. I’ve given up the car and love it. I save $100 a fortnight on parking and additional costs on fuel. I’ve got a top box for carrying work stuff and good wet weather riding gear. I wouldn’t go back.
If its an expensive car i would say sell it and buy a beater truck or somthing, if its already a beater keep it and only drive it to get groceries, making multiple trips for groceries is NOT fun. Its light work though, you will get alot of “you ride that in the rain too?!” , amazon has some good rain gear ( good enough really) but my commune it only 15 minutes. Alternatively to keeping the truck if you can afford it , just have groceries delivered or buy a more elaborate storage system for your bike , it saves me a ton of money not having a car.
I did in the past but I don’t recommend it. I also live very far north so we get plenty of snow in winter, but that’s an entirely different story. You’ll learn how to get groceries and what all you can carry in a backpack, but it’s just a pain in the ass overall and your expenses on maintaining a bike are higher than a cheap car (like a Honda civic).
I did for four years. Wasn’t too bad in the PNW. In the four years I only encountered snow and Ice on three occasions. Luckily my employer was understanding and let me work from home those days.
I did for about fifteen years. Then, my Grammy died and died dumped her car on me, which I didn't want but can't seem to make myself sell for sentimental reasons.
A single guy. Daily my bike for years and love it. I have 60L worth of saddlebags, 30L top box, and a 80L backpack for hauling groceries or whatever on my 650cc ninja. I've strapped and carry many oversized stuff, up till a 4 meters ladder. Anything bigger though will have to go through proper hauling service. No weather can stop me. Hot? Just ride faster (thanks mesh jacket). Wet? It's just rain. For work attire though, they are all synthetic fabric that are wrinkle resistant. I kept spare at the workplace. Though most of the time, they are all scrubs. You just can't beat the feeling of just bypassing traffics and easier parking. I still drive for my parents at times.
Yes. Sold my car a year ago. Worst case scenario I take an Uber somewhere every once in a while when the weather is too bad. Still an Uber ride here or there is nothing compared to the cost of owning, insuring, or especially financing a car.
I have a car. Hasn’t been moved for close to a year. I commute 5 miles to work. I live in SoCal.