Although often drawing the same aficionados looking for the same adrenaline rush, there are differences between riding performance cars and riding performance motorcycles. But this won’t be a traditional comparison between exotic sports cars and thrilling sport bikes, because there are plenty of those out there on the internet. Cars versus Motorcycles, this is more of a comparison based on the expression, “Four wheels move the body; two wheels move the soul.”

Exclusive vs. Inclusive

So what are the differences? For starters, the entry fee into the exotic sport car club is usually six figures and higher. Basically, it’s a small club. Depending on where you live, it might be difficult to find others who drive these cars, limiting the experience and providing few opportunities for social interaction based on a mutual appreciation and hobby.

However, if you’re lucky enough to have a motorcycle license, then you can get into the same high-performance club for a fraction of the cost. A 10-year-old Lamborghini Gallardo will cost your over $100,000. A gently used BMW S1000RR comes in at $11,000. With the smaller cost to enter the high-performance realm, you’ll find a much larger group of great people who share your passion for riding.

Comfort vs. Intensity

A performance sports car will offer you an amazing experience in great comfort. You’ll be surrounded by the finest technology and safety features. You’ll be quite comfortable in the supporting, padded seats. All you have to do is just open the car door, get in, and go. A sports bike, on the other hand, will offer you an amazing experience but you will have very little comfort in the process. You’ll be sitting on the finest technology but your safety is at far greater risk. You cannot just hop on and go. You’ll have to get geared up for the ride (I hope!) before you set off down the road. You are completely exposed to the elements and now you have lean angles to work with. Every surface you ride on, you’ll feel. Every corner becomes an intense dream you don’t want to wake up from.

There’s just no comparison

We go through life looking for unique and fulfilling experiences, and motorcycling can easily deliver that. The separation from the mundane and focus required to ride will give you the break you need from the stressors of life. But there is a trade-off and it is your safety. You’ll find far more people telling you about the dangers of motorcycling than the joys of it. While the stories you’ll hear are probably true, they still represent a small minority of incidents and experiences. Some of the biggest accident stats associated with motorcycle riding can be eliminated by wearing full safety gear, exercising caution in all intersections, avoiding drugs or alcohol, keeping the speed within your skill set, and taking a motorcycle safety course. If you can manage these, your motorcycling experience will last a long, long time.

And last (but not least) is the motorcycling community. Part of the soul of the sport of motorcycling is the people involved. They will take care of you, and people you ride with will become lifelong friends. Embrace it and you’ll never be alone.

Four wheels move the body; two wheels move the soul. Anyone who has ridden a bike knows it’s true.

Learn to ride at 1st Gear Motorcycle School or if you already ride check out my ride reports on this website.