jonolikesbuster

So I'm in the situation where I need transportation of some kind this summer. Being a poor college student, I want to spend very little money. Realizing that I would have to drop a few grand on a used car, the option of buying a motorcycle is becoming quite inciting. I could get a decent used bike for about $1,000 or less. It would get more than double the MPG of any car, saving lots of money on gas. I also think I would enjoy the maintenance, and riding it would definitely be a blast.

I guess my main objection is safety. It's what is really holding me back. I really don't want to end up as a greasy spot on the road, all because I didn't want to spend more money. But then again, these machines can't be total deathtraps, I mean a lot of people ride them and live, right? I think I may just be working myself up about it (with the help of my parents, who are not very enthusiastic about this idea) , but there's no denying that riding a motorcycle would be less safe than a car. Therein lies my question.

Should I get a motorcycle? or should I suck it up and pay extra for a car? Does anyone here ride, and can ease some of my worries? Or perhaps warn me of potential risks? I would really just appreciate some perspective.

I would commuting around an urban/suburban area, freeway driving would be very limited. I would definitely be wearing a helmet and riding gear.

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