Why I want a motorbike?

As it is, I've received numerous admonitions from friends and parents alike telling me not to buy a bike and that riding is dangerous. I am in no doubt that it is. The fears of riding are well-founded and meticulously documented; after all, who are we to argue with statistics? So while purchasing a bike may seem counter-intuitive and foolhardy, perhaps even childish and rebellious, I would like to give reasons for my persistence in wanting to own a bike.

I'll start with the 'logical/economical' reasons:

1) It is cheap...much cheaper as compared to owning a car.
2) Petrol & mileage @ 40km/l...need I say more?
3) Free parking at most places and cheap parking at others.
4) Traffic jams - a thing of the past.
5) No more ferrying of friends whom reside outta the way.

Now that I've gotten these out of the way, let me explain the real reasons:

The act of owning a bike is not simply one that stems out of economy --- it is much, much more than that. There were many times in my life where I've felt controlled and compelled to accomplish the wishes and dreams of others, and even in cases where I've had the autonomy to choose (e.g. studies, career, etc.), these were merely allowed or supported because they did not contradict or go against what the higher powers deemed okay. Therefore, owning a bike was not a necessity and never will be --- it is a lifestyle choice.

A choice that signifies freedom and quenches the thirst for self-autonomy. Something that goes again common logic...where even though the world seems to stand against you, you've persevered and told them that no, these decisions are now yours to make whether they like it or not. It fulfills a deep-seated longing of being free, of being able to come and go as and when you like. It fulfills a deep-seated longing of being free, of being able to determine your future's trajectory without the need or help from external forces. It affirms you as a mature human-being, of your innate right to the freedom of choice and also, functions as a gauge to the level of trust that people have in you.

So while the concerns and the dangers are real and one must be absolutely certain and aware about this, it is my hope that others will come to the realization that taking ownership of an artifact is not merely taking ownership of an artifact....it encompasses many other issues as well.



p.s.: Another reason is this: Since I would definitely rent/ride a bike if I went overseas (which I do quite often) and have been doing so without a license prior to this, wouldn't it make sense that I practice this art while I can before allowing myself to be engaged in the perils of one without the necessary training? This to me...is counter-intuitive.