I agree, it's gas price driven. Yesterday I got a call from a Yamaha salesman asking me if I could train new riders. I told him my course was for experienced riders and not beginners. I gave him the number for MSF/CMSP.
I may be out of line, but good gas milage is a benefit of riding a motorcycle. But to buy a motorcycle JUST to save gas may not be a good idea. I believe before someone makes that purchase and swings their leg over the saddle, they need to be commited to riding and being safer rider, and that comes from the INSIDE, and not the wallet. Folks just buy a bike and think "That's It". Well it's not, they need the right gear, for ALL kinds of weather. They need training followed up by regular practice. If they are not going to commit themselves to that then maybe a SmartCar or electric car is the way to go. I hope I didn't piss anyone off with my rant.