As the rider releases the clutch and gently rolls on the throttle, the bike rapidly gains speed. Cool wind bristles against the skin and the smell of fresh air is almost intoxicating. The feeling of total control and freedom is overwhelming. The rider shifts gears and roars down the highway, passing many people traveling in many different types of automobiles. The rider whips past a crowded gas station and smiles knowing there is no need to stop. Does this sound attractive? It does to a growing number of people. More and more Americans are searching for alternate modes of transportation. Motorcycles are rapidly filling this need. Motorcycles are a cost-effective, safe, and enjoyable alternative to traditional means of transportation.
             Motorcycle riding is gaining popularity amongst many Americans as both a recreational activity and a primary method of transportation. With gasoline prices climbing to near-record levels, motorcycles offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional automobile travel. Over the last decade, design improvements resulted in motorcycles that offer increased power and efficient gas mileage. Most touring class motorcycles average 40 to 45 miles-per-gallon under normal riding conditions, while the equivalent automobile class, sedans, averages 24 to 29. Motorcycles have fewer mechanical parts than traditional automobiles. This means there are fewer parts to wear out and less preventative maintenance costs. New motorcycle prices vary from location to location with the highest prices normally found in the Southern United States where weather conditions are conducive to year-round riding. Even so, the average price for a new motorcycle is 50 percent lower than the price of a commensurate class automobile. Another cost benefit is reparability. Almost every piece of a motorcycle can be removed and repaired, or replaced when worn or damaged. In the event of a catastrophic acci
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