Another summer has arrived, and it’s another summer of wondering if this will be the year I purchase a motorcycle. Motorcycles are like smoking cigarettes, everyone knows they are dangerous, but they still want to try them, at least once.

I go back and forth, do I want a Scooter? Those are rather cool. They seem to be quite the sensation in Italy where one can catch them at any time zinging around the Basilica or nearby Piazza, leaving behind a wisp of fresh baked bread. There is something sexually exciting about that.

But, here in small town USA, there is a certain prejudice raised against a Scooter owner. Unless you live on Bainbridge Island, Washington where one day a year all the scooter folks meet, to tip the island a little bit south, toward Seattle. Other than than that, it’s hard not to be thought of as a baby biker.

Be a man with a Harley or a woman with a Honda, but for heaven’s sake, don’t be a wimp!

OK, so maybe it’s time to consider a Honda. In college, I traded my Voltswagon beetle for a 600cc motorcycle for a month. My room mate stayed dry and her hair always looked great. Mine, is still trying to get over helmet head. I must admit, I did have a heck of a lot of fun on that bike.

There is a lot to think about when considering buying a motorcycle. Do I want a single cylinder, four-cylinder or a V-Twin?

A single cylinder is a simple engine, designed for both off and on road use. This keeps the weight of the bike down but limits the engines horsepower oomph. Keeping it simple and affordable, a single cylinder may be just the ticket for a person looking for a dependable commuter bike.

Though engines come in many sizes, the in line, four-cylinder seems to be the top choice when a beefy bike is wanted. Powerful and quick acceleration, smooth ride with wide body and wide tires will get you where you want to go.

A V-Twin, side by side cylinders, is the engine of the Harley-Davidson biker. It’s powerful and down right macho. Designed for long and low riding comfort. Veteran’s day is the celebration of the V-twin.

Then there are the motorcycle types: Cruiser, Touring, Vintage, Dual purpose, Sport bike or the Standard Street Bike. All designed to accommodate the specific passions of a rider.

Today, I’ll call my daughter, maybe she will give me a ride on her 600cc Shadow. It’s a kick!