I‘m interested in getting a small cruiser or dual sport bike and selling my car. How often do parts on a bike break down and how cheap are the parts. From what I‘ve read the most expensive parts to replace are tires. Is this true?
In considering costs only, yes a motorcycle is cheaper all the way around, comparing new car to new motorcycle, or even good-used-car to new motorcycle. Motorcycles are cheaper to insure, cheaper to fuel-up, cheaper to buy (good used, low-miles cruiser for $3K all day long), and cheaper to repair/maintain (parts are parts. and you need parts for a car too - they're all about the same) oil changes, spark-plugs, brake-pads, etc. are the normal maintenance items and cost about the same regardless of car/bike. Tires are one of the largest recurring expenses for a motorcycle. Tires will average from 8K to 15K for a pair (compare that to 45-80K for car's tires), and they will run you from $150/pr up to $500/pr depending on brand/size and where you buy them and what you pay for mounting.
It is simply waaaaay cheaper to own a bike. I've owned 4 and am about to sell my car and go back to a bike. There are a few factors in that decision: A. I only live 8 miles from work and there are back roads (though I always took the freeway before, this is a great option) B. It hardly ever rains here. Previously I was in San Diego where it NEVER rained. but still pretty good where I'm at. C. I already have the gear - helmet, reinforced jacket, boots, gloves, etc. I figure if I tire of it, I'll buy a car. Maybe by then I'll have a little more cash flow available. ( : Be safe out there always assume they can't see you.
