The Motorcycle Decision: Fun or Frustration?
Would you ever buy a motorcycle? This classic question was answered affirmatively by the author, who invested in two notable models: a Honda Rebel 300 in 2017 and a Harley Davidson Street Bob in 2018. These experiences have transformed not only his mode of transportation but also his overall well-being, leading him to ponder whether the thrill and utility of owning a motorcycle are worth the potential downsides.
Initial Experiences with Motorcycles
From 1989 to 1998, the author owned and rode various types of dirt/enduro bikes. These vehicles, operating with a more upright seating position and lower emphasis on speed, provided him with numerous fond memories. A notable highlight was a solo camping trip around Europe where these bikes excelled on the off-road terrain. Despite the joy derived from these bikes, the author eventually opted to give up motorcycle ownership due to the dangers associated with them, especially as a new father.
Current Considerations in Manila
Living in the Philippines, the author often hires small motorcycles while traveling to coastal areas. These experiences have piqued his interest in acquiring a personal motorcycle, particularly in Manila, where the traffic conditions are particularly challenging. Owning a motorbike over 400cc in Manila offers several advantages, such as access to expressways and a special "Big Bike" status. This status provides numerous benefits, including better interactions with the local law enforcement and smoother interactions with other road users.
Motorcycles in Manila also offer the convenience of being a more independent mode of transportation, enabling faster travels and easier parking. As mentioned by the author, the special status of "Big Biker" can lead to more favorable treatment, such as police salutes from riders of special, larger bikes. Additionally, if an accident occurs, the ownership of a larger motorcycle often correlates with having more resources for legal and insurance purposes.
The Downside of Motorcycle Ownership
However, the author highlights the significant downsides of motorcycle ownership in Manila. Firstly, the traffic in the city is notoriously dire, and proper parking can be challenging. Secondly, the number of reckless drivers, moped riders, and disengaged cyclists and pedestrians is high, which can pose a serious danger to motorcyclists. The author notes that accidents involving motorcycles, even at low speeds, often result in a significant impact due to the inherent dangers of such vehicles.
The author's solution to potential accidents is a dashcam, which he purchased for the purpose of documenting any incidents. He worries that a twist of the throttle at the wrong moment could lead to a severe accident, with the possibility of being wrongly blamed, especially as a foreigner with limited legal and insurance support in the area.
After weighing the pros and cons, the author remains indecisive. Despite the potential benefits of a motorcycle in Manila, the risks and frustrations of owning and riding one are significant. The author concludes that he might stick with his mundane SUV for now.
Would you make the same decision as the author? Do the potential benefits outweigh the risks of owning a motorcycle in a city like Manila?