COVID-19 commuting: why bikes are best

As COVID-19 reshapes the ways in which we work, in cities in particular motorcycles and scooters are fast emerging as one of the smartest way to commute. Here's why…

With large numbers of people working from home, many businesses still closed and cities still tentatively easing lockdown restrictions, traffic congestion in built-up areas is lower than it has been for many years. That means easy, stress-free commuting on a motorcycle or scooter, while it's also an ideal time for less experienced riders to build their confidence.

Of course, once restrictions lift further and more businesses reopen, we may well see an increase in city traffic compared to usual levels as more people turn to their car. But while addled city motorists remain stuck in gridlock hell, us fortunate few riders can sail on by, chopping commute times substantially.

Any spike in traffic congestion will largely be down to commuters avoiding public transport, which inherently places lots of people in a small space, and all the heightened virus transmission risks that entails.

So, if you're worried about getting sneezed on by your neighbor on the train, tram or bus, and you don't want to sit in your car at a standstill, the answer is simple: ride your bike or scooter instead. After all, riding solo is the ultimate expression of two-wheeled self-isolation!

Compared to buying a new car, buying a new commuter-style motorcycle or scooter is far cheaper, as are the associated insurance, registration and running costs. You'll spend appreciably less on fuel too, with some commuter-oriented bikes and scooters achieving average fuel economy of down to 3.0lt/100km, or even less. Try and get that out of your car!

Of course, if it's a first motorcycle or scooter you'll need to spend extra on the safety gear – helmet, jacket, gloves and boots at a minimum – and cheaper isn't better in this regard. But once you're set up, you're good to go.

Beyond the faster commute times, riding a motorcycle or scooter to work is more convenient than a car on other fronts too. A bike is easier to store, faster to clean, and easier to park (especially if you live in Melbourne, where you can legally park on the footpath).

So, if you want to stay ahead of the pack, keep commuting time to a minimum and even have a ball while doing so, two wheels and an engine is where it's at – you'll be keeping COVID-free, cashed-up and smiling!

Related reading:
Safer motorbike riding during COVID-19
COVID-19: Can I ride my motorcycle
COVID-19: How to entertain yourself during lockdown
Will motorcycling kill me?