As reports of the ongoing climate crisis become increasingly more worrisome, many of us are wondering what individual choices we can make to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. While most of us are unable to live a completely waste-free life, there are certainly small ways that each of us can be more environmentally conscious—especially on the road.

A more sustainable lifestyle is not just about separating your recyclables. Getting creative and thinking about the ways that you create the most landfill material is an important step to begin thinking about where you can reduce waste. For many of us, the best place to start might be right in our garage.

We've got three ideas below to help you become a more sustainable motorcyclist. The last one might surprise you…

First, let's address the question that you're all probably wondering right about now: aren't motorcycles always less harmful than cars? Sure, they use less fuel. But, the question is not quite so easy to answer.

At first, it might seem like riding a motorcycle is a greener choice than four-wheeled vehicles. Motorcycles definitely make a positive impact on traffic because they use up a lot less space than a car. As a matter of fact, motorcyclists only take up 1% of all traffic. Combined with the fact that they use up only half the amount of gas, it basically seems like a no-brainer that a motorcycle is greener than a clunky cage.

Sadly though, motorcycles emit significantly more toxic chemicals than even a sedan. And although bikers only take up that one percent, their emissions contribute to 10% of toxic emissions. 

The truth is that motorcycles are treated a lot more leniently than automobiles are in environmental reports. As a matter of fact, motorcycle emissions standards in the States haven't been updated for almost three decades. 

In addition, lane splitting (or filtering), while cutting down on congestion, has become a confusing, state-by-state affair, despite being legal pretty much everywhere except in all of our United States. Although lane filtering helps with traffic, the danger that is associated with weaving in and out of cars has kept lawmakers from fully accepting the practice.

Overall though, as more people are riding motorcycles, their effect on traffic has been pretty positive. Especially in states where lane filtering is allowed, riders take up less space on the road. That makes for significantly less clutter on the road, especially since single-rider cars take up 85% of traffic. That’s a lot of vehicle for just one person! 

Also, motorcycles are much less labor-intensive to make and have more longevity than automobiles typically do. So although they emit more toxins, the effects of our favorite wheels are really not that bad over time.

Trends show that motorcycles and bikes are the future of transportation. Hopefully, that means that more motorcycle-friendly legislation will allow for smoother, greener rides. But until then, read on to learn about some eco-friendly changes you can make today.

Twisted Tip: Read our blog on The 7 Differences Between Driving a Car and Riding A Motorcycle.

1. Ride Electric

Imagine fixing up your bike without getting grease and oil all over your clothes. Picture racing off to your next adventure—silently. That is the experience on the ride of tomorrow. Leave the fumes and roaring engines in your wake! Fast, silent, and less expensive, electronic bikes are an excellent ride.

Electric bikes offer a silent and swift alternative to the gas-guzzling bikes of the past. You can get almost 300 miles out of a single charge of some of these bad boys. Although some may never get over that feeling of the roaring engine, when you consider the stats it seems that e-bikes will continue to convert riders.  

As more motorcycle manufacturers are thinking about how to be ethical producers, more innovative products are hitting the market. Even historic brands like Harley-Davidson are coming out with nifty, fume-less bikes (like the Livewire, pictured above). Especially if you’re interested in a luxurious ride, the e-bike emphasizes cutting-edge technology while creating beautiful bikes. Twisted Road has electric motorcycles available for rent—see if there is one in your city.

2. Ride Smart and Be Considerate

When we're traveling or on vacation, it's normal to enjoy ourselves and relax our rules. For example, when on a motorcycle camping trip make sure to pick up any materials you left behind in the places you stop. Be sure to prepare yourself with trash bags and reusable materials.

Additionally, you can help the climate crises just by being an attentive rider. Paying attention to the bike's speed can make a significant difference in how much fuel your bike is guzzling. Small choices can make a big difference in how much gas you’re using. By accelerating slowly, you’re able to get more use out of every gallon in your tank. This will also make sure that your turns are smooth, reducing your chance of accidents. Although it might be a little less thrilling than rocketing from 0 to 60 in a couple of seconds, the effect on your tank is significant enough to consider making a change. Accelerating more slowly not only economically uses your gas, but it’s just less wear and tear for your bike. 

3. Take the Twisted Road!

But the best way to be a sustainable rider? Rent your bike. It's not only better for the planet but can be better for your wallet.

Connect with your community, increase your motorcycle’s value, and freely explore whichever road lays ahead of you. While it does sound a little too good to be true, this is what happens when you rent (or rent out) a motorcycle. An important perk of motorcycle rental is that you are able to do all that…while staying green. Renting reduces our demand for more products, utilizes current supply, and prevents perfectly good motorcycles from just rusting in your garage. And remember the rules of the road will vary from state to state. 

With almost $7 billion spent on manufacturing motorcycles in the last decade, some would say that we have enough motorcycles to go around. Plus, the ability to choose your bike, rent out yours, or try out a new model you’ve been eyeing has never been easier. Stop spending time agonizing over whether or not to bring your bike on summer trips or even to the nearest campsite! With Twisted Road, you’re able to hop on your dream motorcycle anywhere–quickly and easily.

Twisted Road started because our CEO, Austin, needed a way to quickly get around while traveling in a new city. It was there that inspiration struck him. He realized motorcyclists needed more accessible options–and they needed to be good options. By renting your bike out, or renting a bike to ride, you’re able to maximize the bike’s usability while also trying out some unfamiliar models. It's a win for you and the environment.

So let’s go green!

Ready to try something new? Curious about how to rent yours out? Well, there’s no time like the present with summer right around the corner. Book your bike today and explore the twisted road…sustainably. Click here to see our options in your destination.