Crotch Rocket Statistics

Overview

Commonly known as “crotch rockets,” supersport bikes are becoming more pervasive with each generation. Hitting top speeds of nearly 190 miles per hour and often designed specifically for racetrack usage, it comes as no surprise that the death rate is four times higher per 10,000 registered motorcycles than riders on all other types of bikes.

In 2005, Supersports was amongst the lowest in registered vehicles, at 501,002. However, attached to that number was a staggering 22.5 deaths per 10,000 registered motorcycles. These bikes are especially popular with individuals under 30 who prefer the sleekness of the leathers and bright colors popular in the aerodynamic racing culture. These motorcycle companies pride themselves on the groundbreaking speeds of their bikes, which is fully represented in their advertising.

The foreseeable issue at hand is that motorcycle and engine manufacturers are only providing more to the consumer. This is most evident in top speeds, engine sizes and weight, and horsepower. These innovative features are to be utilized on a closed racetrack for professionals, not amateur riders on open streets with other motor vehicles.

Driver Characteristics

Supersport riders dominated the top rankings in 2005 for fatal injuries under the categories of Speeding, Driver Error, Helmeted, and Under 30 Years Old. They ranked second for BAC over 0.08. The average age of a fatally injured motorcycle driver in 2005 was 27 years old. Optimism is difficult to attain when witnessing the helmet laws in states steadily decline while both motorcycle ridership and motorcycle deaths continue to rise.

Accidents and Claims

Supersports are involved in more accidents and insurance claims than any other bike on the road. Additionally, they are involved in more collisions in relation to the total number of bikes on the road. In 2006, there were a reported 9 claims per 100 insured vehicles. In the collision category, Supersport motorcycle models from 2002-2006 dominated from claim frequency equating to the large losses in that class.

Manufacturers have no problem obliging the public demand for more speed contrary to the statistics proving their inability to handle motorcycle models at their current speeds.

Theft

An analysis of 2002-2006 model theft losses developed by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) showed supersport motorcycles dominating the chart compared to all other motorcycle classes. The average loss payments per insured vehicle were more than 7 times higher than the average for all other motorcycles.

Frequency of theft claims per insured vehicle year:
– Supersport Class – 31.8
– Cruisers/Touring – 1.1

Due to the astronomical number of theft losses, supersports also had the highest overall comprehensive coverage losses among those same 2002-2006 models. The average loss per insured vehicle year amounted to $289. That is more than five times higher than the average for all other motorcycles.

If you are one of the many people involved in a Michigan motorcycle accident, don’t attempt to fight alone for what is owed to you. Our attorneys are here to help, and we will guide you through the complex judicial process for you and your loved ones. Remember, at Goodwin & Scieszka fight for You.