The case for motorcycles. Why not use one?

[mrmad]

Due to the high performance engines that most motorcycles have (anything over 600cc) and their poor aerodynamics, motorcycles do not get that great mileage. A 600cc would probably be around 45mpg and an 1100 would probably be lucky to get 40. A smaller twin cylinder might get you in the 60mpg range but are pretty underpowered at freeway speeds. As funny as it sounds, you can escape some bad situations in traffic by just blasting past it and you couldn't do this on a 250.

The other consideration is tires. A sportbike can go through a rear tire in less then 8000 miles (and much less if you ride aggresively) A rear tire for a sportbike can cost over $200 and $50 to mount it. Fronts last longer, but they aren't cheap either. And on a motorcycle, it is not a good idea to buy cheap tires or run them down on the tread, good traction will save your life. Touring tires last longer (maybe closer to 20000 miles), but they still don't last as long as tires do on a car.

Overall, if you ae getting one to save money, I think you would have a hard time getting a motorcycle to save you alot on long commutes when compared to a small, FE car.