Fuel Cost

[FGanger]

I have a Ford Escape mini SUV and an R1150R. A previous post caused me to think about cost of ownership. The original premise was that riding ones motorcycle is less costly than driving ones auto. Now I have almost the same milage (50,000 miles) on both my vehicles and both were bought about the same time - 2003. Actually the cost of the two vehicles are about the same, when one adds in the $4,000.00+ in accessories to the cost of the bike. If I were to sell both of them right now, I believe I would get more for the SUV than the bike.

Ford SUV
2777 Gallons of fuel $2.50 per gallon X’s 2777 gallons = $6942.50
Tires - look as if they will go another 50,000 miles
Oil Changes - 6 X’s $32.00 = $192.00
Valve Adjustment - none
Other Service - none

Total: $7134.50


verses




BMW R1150R
I’m just guessing about the cost of valve adjustments, brake pads and oil changes if done at a dealer, for I generally do them myself. For the sake of argument, I could also do my auto’s oil changes at home as well - but don’t even think of it.

1250 Gallons of fuel - $2.75 per gallon X’s 1250 gallons = $3437.50
Tires - 5 sets @ $400 per set = $2000.00
Oil Changes - 10 X’s $32.00 = $ 320.00
Valve Adjustment - 8 X’s $30.00 = $240.00
Other Service:
Brake pads $100.00
Clutch and rear end bearings $1450.00
Front and rear suspension $800.00
I know there are other costs with the bike as
well, air cleaner, major/minor inspections, etc.
I already had enough information on the "which
costs less" argument.
Total: $8347.50

I’m sure I’ve left some items off for I’m not the type of person who keeps a record of everything. I know this is not totally scientific, but it is another way of looking at the climbing fuel costs. It does not take into account, for example, taking passengers, towing trailers, freezing temps, and “egg frying on the sidewalk” hot types of days.

I didn't add in the cost of riding gear to cover all seasons - Ford - $0, bike - about $1500. The riding gear can be used with succeeding bikes.

Frank

[Guest]

You may want to add the cost of insurance into your calculations as well. That will help to even things out but the bike is still going to cost more.

[Blitz]

You may want to add the cost of insurance into your calculations as well. That will help to even things out but the bike is still going to cost more.

If you are looking for economy, buy a moped I'll pay for riding my R1150 and love it!