How much does riding a motorcycle cost?

Costs of biking

In a recent group discussion, we were asked to comment on whether it was cheaper to ride a bike than drive a car. In truth, yes, it is cheaper and way more fun to ride a bike day-to-day, but the hidden costs make up for the disparity. While riding a bike is cheaper, getting to that point can be very cost-prohibitive.

Related: Are there any motorcycle clubs or communities in South Africa?

The hidden or forgotten financial requirements are often glazed over but are essential to the ownership experience. Let's check out what riders will have to part with their hard-earned cash over.

What are the most common motorbike riding hazards and how do I avoid them?

The training and licensing process can be a hidden cost

1. Lessons and licensing

Pre-license training is essential for all new riders and can cost anywhere from R350 per hour session to R3 850 for a day course in a closed environment. The cost of getting your license will vary depending on which province you live in but expect to fork out about R1 500 in e-Natis costs.

Good quality motorcycle gear can be expensive

2. Gear

Having the proper gear is not only a safety thing; in SA, it is legally required. Riders are required by law to wear a DOT-approved helmet, but most instructors and anyone with a brain cell insist on a jacket, gloves and boots. How much you spend on your gear is truly up to you and how much safety you expect. Cheap gear won't last long and probably won't save you sufficiently in a crash. A good quality DOT kit of helmet, jacket, gloves and boots will set you back roughly R 12 000 for name-brand tested goods.

Buying a bike is exciting but also costly

3. Buying the bike

Your single biggest cost is going to be the purchase of your bike. Depending on the engine size, riding type and whether it's used or new, you can expect a price range of anywhere from R25 000 to R 450 000. The average motorcycle is going to cost you the price of a decent second-hand car

Bike maintenance can be fun but can quickly become expensive

4. Services and Maintenance

A motorcycle needs constant maintenance and servicing to keep it going safely. You will run through brakes and tyres much faster than on a car, but thankfully, you only have to replace two and not four of each item, as the compounds are usually much softer for better performance. Motorcycles must be serviced in shorter intervals than cars at roughly 5000km between visits. Depending on the bike and model, you can expect service costs of between R2850 and R5000. Tyres also range quite a bit in price but expect R3 200 and R7 500 to be good sets for your bike.

The costs of motorcycling can be on par with those of car owners

Cost savings?

Whether it's cheaper to ride a bike or drive a car is somewhat swings and roundabouts. What you lose on the initial startup cost of the above purchases you make back in running costs and the sheer enjoyment of riding. If you have to choose between a bike and a car, I'd say the car is the smarter choice in the long run, but nothing quite beats the absolute pleasure of riding a bike.