When it comes to car 12k a year is pretty average and to be expected and most people have an general idea home many miles certain cars types will go. Im new to motorcycle and was wondering when it comes to HDs whats normal yearly use? What type of mileage can you expect? Im looking at used bikes and trying to get a feel for the mileage when it comes to bikes. Any general rules of thumb? Thank you.

 

My 04 TC88b on 50% city, interstates gets about 42 mpg. I had a 1100 Yamaha that got about 48. That's driving it easy which I normally do and fill up every 100 miles. Average for 20,000 miles. Harleys are fairly heavy. Insurance and personal property taxes are higher on the Harley then my 04 4x4. Harleys will save you no money. And if you have no pay for maintaince forget it if you are looking to save money. I consider any trip on my bike free (even to work) since riding it is my hobby. And I do all my own work no matter what tool I need.

 

I think he's asking about average yearly miles put on a motorcycle? It really depends on location. Some areas of the country are more conducive to year round riding or have a longer riding season. Average mileage per year? Maybe 8,000.
Since you're in San Diego, that figure might be a little higher.

 

Wow 8000 that is a lot more then I would have guessed.

 

Between weather and work I usually get in 4k a yr if I am lucky. Some can ride yr round so their mileage will be a lot higher.

 

I think the OP was what would the average yearly mileage be. To answer your question it varies by person and by region. In New England we only get 5 good months. If you don't mind rain and cold maybe 7. Most people can take a car to work, if you don't use your vehicle for work you can take your bike. If like me and you work in the service industry, you can only ride after work and week ends.
See what I mean? To many variables.
I was only able to rack up 1200 miles this season.

 

I do about 15,000 a year on the bike.

 

I think the last I read somewhere the average motorcycle in the U.S. is ridden less than 5000 miles per year. I know guys that ride only a couple thousand each year. I average between 12,000 and 15,000 so there's huge swings between individual bikers. I will say as far as trade in values are concerned I traded in a 2011 Ultra Limited in June that I put 10,000 miles on over a 9 month period. The dealer went right to his NADA book for trade in and that's what he gave me. I guess 10,000 a year is below the threshold for excess mileage.

 

I'll ride about 8-9000 miles a year. Buying and riding a HD will not save you any money, even if you do all your own work.

It's a hobby and a great one.

You never see a Harley at a shrink's office!

 

I have been doing a lot since retirement, 33 to 38.000 miles per year. lovin it !!