Why are motorcycles so fun? It’s a question that both hardcore enthusiasts and novices who might just be getting into bikes for the first time ask repeatedly. There’s a certain mystique, if you will, to the concept of riding a motorcycle down the open road. The reality, in many ways, lives up to that lofty ideal. Here are five reasons why.

Motorcycles Look Attractive

This almost goes without saying. Bikes aren’t just a mode of transportation; they’re works of art in their own right. Manufacturers put tons of effort into the design and build of their motorcycles, something that riders can then choose to further augment through various customizations. Looking at some of the creations born from the hard work and patience of master customization shops, it’s not hard to see why.

It’s Fun to Go Fast

This is one element that is hard to overstate. Many a rider will proudly proclaim that there’s no feeling quite as exhilarating as the wind rushing around them while they’re cruising down the road on a two-wheeler. It’s more than just a rush, though, it’s also a calming experience. A chance for a rider to clear their mind and meditate on their day-to-day. They just have to be savvy about riding intelligently while they achieve this Zen racing state, lest they find themselves in need of some emergency motorcycle accident help.

Commuting Is Easier

It’s not the first thing people usually think of when people think of riding bikes, but an easier commute is undeniable fact all the same. Once a rider becomes proficient, they usually come to find that motorcycles are more nimble than driving a car, easier to park and, in places where lane splitting is legal, an excellent way to get around faster. Even in regions where it isn’t, riders enjoy a reduced amount of stress when cruising on two wheels, which is more than enough reason on its own to embrace the bike.

It’s Good for the Planet

Some motorcycle enthusiasts hype the costs savings of riding a motorcycle, which, to be fair, are there. They just aren’t as great as some have been led to believe. The true savings come from the decreased footprint riders leave in terms of fuel emissions, space taken up on the road and maintenance.

There’s a Sense of Camaraderie

The community that has formed around motorcycle culture is one that has a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. A wink here, a nod there—it’s a mutual respect among people who ride. Stories abound about riders meeting some of the nicest people they’ve ever encountered while out on the road.