When I walked into the Suzuki dealer 3 years ago in search of the perfect beginner bike for me, I wasn’t there for the reasons that compel most riders to purchase a motorcycle. I wasn’t there because I loved riding, nor to buy the bike best suited for my days at the track. I didn’t own a pair of chaps, and I didn’t know the first thing about performing basic maneuvers sitting atop a 400-plus pound machine. So why did I walk into the dealership that day?
To save money! I know that sounds absurd seeing that I was about to finance $5,500 in the form of $150 per month payments, but I paid the bike off very early, negating most of the interest and doing away with the monthly payment quickly. Considering that I drive a car that averages 14 mpg, and that my fill-ups cost roughly $50, and also that I had to fill my gas tank back up at least once a week, usually twice, I’d say that I’ve made back my original financed amount and that I am currently reaping the benefits of my investment.
The car stays parked throughout the Summer, for the most part. The Suzuki GS500F has averaged approximately 50-55 mpg while in my possession. I’m getting right at 225 miles to a tank without switching to my reserve supply of fuel. My car doesn’t even take me 200 miles before it gets thirsty for a complete fill-up, and the car’s gas tank is more than double the size of the Suzuki’s!
The car, taking about 6 fill-ups a month on average, costs around $300 per month to keep it running. The motorcycle, costing about $15 each trip to the gas station, costs me about $60 a month. Four fill-ups is really all that is necessary to get around on the bike because it has a farther tank-range than my car. So, fuel alone, $240 savings each month with six months per year of good riding weather has equated to an estimated $5,700-5,800 saved!
All said, I will conclude that including all of the other variables specific to my situation, I have hit the point right now where I have caught up with my original investment cost. Furthermore, since I began riding the Suzuki I’ve learned a lot about appreciating the open road. I understand the love that a rider has for the pure enjoyment of riding his/her motorcycle, for I feel that way as well now. It’s a bond, a connection between Man and Machine, or Woman and Machine. Riding has opened my eyes to new things, and has taught me a new way of life. Now that is what I call a good investment! A priceless investment.