What do you feel like doing under the blue skies, sunny rays and 60 and 70 degree winter temperatures in places like Phoenix?

Did you know you can rent motorcycles?

Winter Rental Strength

Some enterprising motorcycle dealers and franchise rental operations have discovered a market for renting bikes. People who live in the warm winter weather climes have visitors from the north and east who want to ride.  Some motorcycle rental operations also report customers from Germany and the UK.  In fact, Europeans like seeing the West on motorcycles.

While tourists make up a large portion of renters, college students and military personnel also rent motorcycles frequently.

Price and Insurance

Prices range from about $99 to $200 per day (weekly rentals are available) depending on the type of bike rented. You usually have to be 21 or over and have a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement. You’ll also need a deposit and a credit card with limits of $1,000 or more.

Short term motorcycle insurance coverage, including liability limits, through a separate carrier are available. (Note: check the insurance coverages carefully).

Motorcycle Insurance Rental Prospects

While there have been good times for motorcycle rentals, it seems like the current economic downturn may have impacted this, also.

A rental firm in Tucson reported that while three years ago the demand was strong, it’s now dropped to the point where he only keeps a couple of motorcycles to rent. He receives 15 to 20 calls per month but most people don’t follow through because of the price.

The $100 or more a day for the rental plus the $40 insurance cost and the rental tax used to be more affordable for most than it is today.

Photo via extranoise