I understand why your parents are against the idea. Motorcycles are very dangerous, partly because you don't have a metal frame surrounding and protecting you. If you're hit, your body takes the brunt of the blow, and you end up as a stain on the pavement. Another concern is the low profile of a motorcycle. This makes them harder to see, especially in poor visibility conditions. Then you have to worry about even small bumps in the road, because you'll feel it with a bike's limited suspension. Add in the fact that you're exposed to the elements, like rain, snow, and extreme heat, and motorcycles don't seem too hot (no pun intended). A car is a much safer and overall more comfortable option, even if they get less gas mileage. You can also take more than one person with you in a car, and carry larger things as well. [Edited on 07.31.2012 7:24 AM PDT]