Baby boomers on bikes...

Do you remember when the mention of a motorcycle rider would bring to mind Marlon Brando and James Dean? These American icons on two wheels were young, tough, wild and wonderfully intriguing.
For most of the baby boomer generation, hitting the road on a Harley was just a dream; driving a sedan and spending the tedious work day at a desk or on an assembly line was reality. Deep down, many people knew they were born to be wild. But with bills to pay and kids to raise, doing the 9-5 deal each day made people wonder if they would ever find the time to lead the free-and-easy life and feel the wind in their face.
With life expectancy higher than ever before, more people live well past the time when they become empty nesters. Even before they retire, many find they have more leisure time and they do what was promised in the Declaration of Independence - pursue happiness. They are eager to pick up where they left off earlier in life or explore new and exciting pastimes. And for those who fantasized about hopping on a Harley and zooming down the highway, the fun has just begun.
After putting their dreams on hold for decades, baby boomers are now buying bikes. Motorcycle ownership by riders over the age of 40 has steadily increased in recent years. About a quarter of all bikes registered in the U.S. in the last five years are owned by baby boomers and their older brothers with silver sideburns. The number of emerging seniors who choose to cruise through their golden years is rising rapidly.
Choices, choices! It is no surprise that the motorcycle shopper feels like a kid in a candy store. But before running out and purchasing something on impulse that can come with a bad case of buyer's regret, give it some serious thought.
What will the bike will be used for - racing, touring, off-road riding? Different spokes are needed by different folks. And within the various types of bikes, you must consider the many makes and models.
There are lots of styles and endless options for engine size, wheels, tires, handlebars, exhaust systems, suspensions... But if you are afraid that your limited budget might force you to settle for something on the ho-hum side, fear not. With a few minor modifications and not much money, even the most basic bike can be customized to give the owner that perfect ride.
Older bikers are generally more cautious than their younger counterparts. After surviving the bumps and bruises along life's way, they appreciate the value of protective headgear. By investing in and consistently wearing a quality motorcycle helmet, they know that the possibility of suffering a head injury or worse is greatly reduced.
Another fact that reflects the mature nature of today's bike buyers is the growing popularity of 3-wheeled cycles. Riders still get that open-air feeling of freedom, but that extra wheel provides more safety, comfort and stability.
Some bike builders even offer an automatic transmission option. And with aging ankles and other parts, boomers appreciate the trike's built-in bonus - less wear and tear on the feet and leg muscles, especially when stopping. But these trikes are definitely not for tykes. They are for boomers and others who want all of the vroom and just a little bit more.