Green On Two Wheels: Finding Fuel-Efficient Motorcycles

As spring began, we were hearing that gas prices could reach $4 per gallon by summer. In California, gas had already hit $4.50 as summer began, having doubled in a few short years. Of course, as fuel prices increase people begin casting about for more fuel-efficient forms of transportation, and now we're frequently asked, "What kinda mileage you get on that motorcycle?" Well, my 1100 sport tourer gets about 40-45 mpg, depending upon how I ride it, and we all know that smaller bikes can get better mileage than that--much better.

How much better? At Rider, we decided to find out. For all those who want to lower their fuel costs while having more fun, we have assembled a group of nine small-to-midsize motorcycles to evaluate for their fuel economy, practicality and fun factor. We divided our test bikes into two categories, four fuel-frugal (fuelgal, get it?) little 250cc machines that are light, inexpensive and easy to handle, and five midsized bikes in the 500-750cc category. The latter could not only be used for commuting, but also for travel, fun, sporting about and carrying a passenger. One would not tire of them quickly.

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