The true costs of owning a motorcycle go beyond the initial one-time motorcycle purchases and to also include the recurring fuel costs of: fuel, maintenance, riding gear, insurance, licenses, and riding courses.
Importantly, owning a motorcycle involves unique risks and responsibilities. Unlike enclosed vehicles, motorcycles lack exterior protection, making riders more vulnerable to injuries in accidents. The increased risk can present significant physical and financial costs in the event of a motorcycle accident that may require medical and legal assistance to resolve. MSO’s motorcycle accident lawyers understand the costs of your pain and will fight to protect your legal rights to keep you riding on.
What are the different motorcycle types?
The different types of motorcycle can be divided into three main categories: cruiser, sport bikes, and touring motorcycles. Each motorcycle type is designed for a specific purpose although they all share the same core components: handlebars, two wheels, and an engine.
Cruisers
Cruisers are often ideal for beginners seeking a bike for short, leisurely rides. These motorcycles are widely available and generally more affordable. They come in a variety of styles, including standard upright models and low-slung choppers, appealing to those who prefer a particular aesthetic.
Sport Bikes
For experienced riders with a passion for speed, sport bikes are a popular choice. With their streamlined design and high-performance capabilities, these bikes are built for speed and thrill. However, their performance-driven nature also makes them more challenging and potentially hazardous to ride.
Touring Motorcycles
Touring bikes are designed for comfort over long distances, making them well-suited for extended trips. They come with added storage, allowing riders to carry essentials for weekend getaways. If your goal is more than just commuting, investing in a touring motorcycle can provide a smoother, more enjoyable riding experience.
What is the Total Cost of Owning a Motorcycle?
The total cost of owning a motorcycle include the costs of:
- The Motorcycle
- Maintenance
- Fuel
- Insurance
- Riding Gear
- Licenses and Riding Lessons
How much does a new motorcycle cost?
A new motorcycle cost for beginners typically falls within the $5,000 to $10,000 range, while more advanced models can range from $10,000 to $35,000.
Maintenance
Maintenance is a key consideration when purchasing a motorcycle. On average, maintenance expenses amount to about $1,000 per year. Newer models generally require less upkeep, while older or used bikes tend to have higher maintenance needs. How often you ride also plays a role in your maintenance costs—frequent riding means you’ll need to replace tires more often.
Fuel
Fuel expenses for a motorcycle typically run around $300 annually, but the more you ride, the more you’ll spend on gas. Choosing a model with higher fuel efficiency can help lower your fuel costs. In general, motorcycles are more fuel-efficient than cars, making them a cost-effective alternative for those looking to save on gas.
Insurance
While some motorcycle owners in Florida aren’t required to carry insurance, purchasing a policy is far more affordable than covering the full cost of accident-related damages out of pocket.
While the national average cost of motorcycle insurance typically ranges from $200 to $500 per year, depending on the type and extent of coverage you choose, in Florida, motorcyclists can expect to pay as little as $52 per month, with the average full-coverage policy costing around $80 per month—or under $1,000 per year.
Some policies offer protection for injuries, bike damage, theft, and property damage. Investing in comprehensive coverage is wise, as unexpected medical expenses from an injury can be costly. In the long run, having adequate insurance can save you money by reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Riding Gear
You’ll also need to factor in the cost of essential riding gear. While Florida law allows motorcyclists over 21 to ride without a helmet, it’s highly recommended to wear full protective gear when riding on Florida’s roads. Helmets alone range from $70 to over $300, with a full set of gear typically costing around $1,300. It’s important to choose a helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards, as it plays a crucial role in protecting you while riding. Helmets should be replaced if damaged in an impact or after about five years of use, as they can degrade over time.
In addition to a helmet, other essential gear includes riding pants, a jacket, gloves, and boots. These items provide protection from both weather conditions and potential accidents. Keep in mind that added features, such as waterproof materials, may increase the overall cost.
Be prepared to invest a few hundred dollars in a quality helmet, protective eyewear, and sturdy motorcycle clothing to help safeguard yourself in case of an accident or fall.
Licenses and Riding Lessons
The application fee is typically around $30. You might also consider enrolling in a beginner rider course, which costs approximately $100. Additionally, experienced riders can opt for advanced classes to enhance their skills, adding another expense to keep in mind.
The Cost of Motorcycle Accidents
Unlike other vehicles, motorcycles lack exterior protection, leaving riders more vulnerable to injury in the event of a collision. This is in line with the fact sheet from SafeTREC at the University of California, Berkeley reporting that 22% percent of motorcycle riders experienced severe or fatal injuries, in contrast to just 4% of occupants in other motor vehicles.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle crashes, like car accidents, can result from various factors, including:
- Aggressive driving
- Hazardous weather conditions
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Distracted driving, such as texting, talking, or eating
In some cases, accidents occur because drivers fail to notice motorcycles when checking blind spots. Motorcycles are smaller and more agile than other vehicles, allowing them to change lanes quickly. For this reason, motorcyclists must ride cautiously, and drivers should carefully check mirrors and surrounding lanes to avoid collisions. Remembering and following motorcycle safety tips can help prevent or reduce your chances of an accident.
Types of Motorcycle Injuries
The financial impact of a motorcycle accident largely depends on the nature and severity of the injuries sustained. These injuries can vary widely, from mild to catastrophic injuries, and may include:
- Fractured or broken bones
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Road rash
- Burns
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Internal bleeding
Considering Medical Expenses After a Motorcycle Accident
Medical bills following a motorcycle accident often surpass the cost of repairing or replacing the bike. When estimating the overall impact of an accident, it’s essential to account for the possibility that the injured rider may need long-term or even lifelong medical care.
In cases of severe or catastrophic injury, the motorcyclist may be unable to return to work, and in the most tragic circumstances, the accident could result in the rider’s death.
Motorcycle insurance not only covers property damage but also provides compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. In the event of the rider’s death, the policy can help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support to surviving family members.
Consult an Experienced Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Despite your best efforts to ride safely and plan ahead, accidents can still occur. When they do, having a skilled motorcycle accident attorney by your side is essential to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries.
The attorneys at MSO have extensive experience handling motorcycle injury cases. Our team has a strong track record of helping Tampa residents secure fair compensation following accidents.
Contact us today for a free consultation with no obligation.