Bug out vehicles get a lot of discussion in prepper circles, and some features, such as 4 wheel drive, are generally viewed as being essential for a capable bug out vehicle. This makes large trucks and SUVs a very common choice.

But what about the other end of the spectrum?

Is a smaller, more nimble and maneuverable vehicle with better gas mileage better than a larger one that offers more protection and cargo space?

As with most things when it comes to prepping, it depends on exactly what the situation is. As evidenced by my discussions with RealitySurvival and PrepperLogic recently, everybody has their own unique idea of what bugging out entails, and when it is appropriate.

Each transportation choice has advantages and disadvantages, and could be much better (or worse) in various situations. It’s up to you to study your situation and anticipate the problems you might encounter, and choose which is best for you.

Motorcycles Advantages:
– Cheaper
– Very quick and nimble
– Good offroad capability (with dual sports and offroad bikes)
– Great Gas mileage
– Can move through traffic jams and tight areas, even forests, much more easily (don’t need roads)
– You can move the bike itself more easily (not likely to get stuck)

Motorcycle Disadvantages:
– Rider is totally exposed (gunfire, weather, etc)
– Miniscule cargo and passenger capacity
– Low fuel capacity

For most people and most situations the cargo capacity, safety, and general usefulness of a 4×4 truck or SUV will make it the obvious choice for a bug out vehicle. However there are definitely some situations where the advantages of a motorcycle could be crucial.

WHEN MOTORCYCLES ARE BETTER

– You have a predetermined bugout location available –

If you know where you are bugging out to, and it is relatively close, the low gas capacity is not an issue. Even if you only have a 2 gallon ‘peanut’ gas tank, that will get you that should get you anywhere from 80 to 150 miles. Carry even a small 2 gallon gas can and your range doubles to a respectable 160 to 350 miles.

Motorcycles can’t carry much, but you can maximize your carrying capacity with cargo boxes, and if you get a ‘sissy bar’ you can strap a backpack to it if you don’t have a passenger. If you have supplies pre-cached at your bugout location, or en route, then cargo capacity is not really an issue. In that case the ability to move through traffic jams and utilize alternate off-road routes would be a huge advantage.

– You live in a big city –

For a prepper living in a very large city, a motorcycle could be very useful. The traffic in a city would instantly snarl to a halt in any serious disaster event, as everybody tried to leave at once. Even a 4×4 vehicle would have trouble getting out, as there just wouldn’t be any room, even on the shoulder of the road. A motorcycle would fit through much more easily.

Until next time,

– Eric AKA The Lord Humungus

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