carbon footprint
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- December 10, 2012
Some people believe that motorcycles have a substantially smaller carbon footprint than cars. Others think that compact cars don't harm the environment as much as SUVs or pickup trucks. It stands to reason that a motorcycle would generate even less pollution. However, the reality is much more complicated.
Motorcycles use significantly less fuel than cars as Some bikes travel over 50 miles per gallon and most 2012 models achieve 35 to 50 MPG. While some motorcycles can travel as far as 75 or 130 miles per gallon, new cars still average less than 30 MPG.
However, better fuel economy doesn't always result in fewer emissions. Most motorcycles create more air pollution and smog than cars. Bikes produce less carbon dioxide, but they release more carbon monoxide.
Motorcycles don't hold as much cargo as other vehicles. This could make a person visit stores more often, effectively reducing the fuel economy and increasing emissions. Bikes also hold fewer passengers than most cars. Using two
