That was when the 31-year-old construction worker, who commutes as far south as Jackpot and as far north as Ketchum, decided the fuel economy of a used Yamaha DT motorcycle was well worth the absence of a roof and lumbar seats, at least in summer months.
An increasing number of people in south-central Idaho are turning to motorcycles for economical transportation as fuel prices climb.
"I would say that we've seen sales increase about 12 percent since last year," said Rob Glodowski, owner of Action Cycles 'N Sleds.
Other dealerships also report increases in sales of 10 to 15 percent.
Glodowski said many people are coming into his store for mid-sized bikes that get 50 to 60 mpg -- almost twice the mileage of a standard passenger car.
Idaho motorcycle registration declined almost 20 percent, or about 11,300 fewer motorcycles, from 2005 to 2007. However, by the end of 2007 and early 2008 the number of newly registered motorcycles increased.
Although buying a big-ticket item seems counter-intuitive to rising costs and a slowing economy, some see a motorcycle as part of the solution.
"My wife wasn't too keen on the whole idea of buying (a motorcycle)," Alderman said. "But Ithink she warmed up to it after we sat down and figured up the numbers."
Alderman said he spent almost $100 each week driving his truck to Hagerman for work. In comparison, he spends less than $40 each week to drive his Yamaha the same distance.
Although most hybrid vehicles average 45 mpg on the highway, dealers say many motorcycle buyers are either unwilling or unable to buy a new car.
Officials at Idaho STAR, which teaches motorcycle skills and safety, say motorcycles are likely more popular in south-central Idaho than in other parts of the state because of drier climate and shorter winters.
However, despite the rising cost of gas, motorcycle dealers say buyers still prefer larger models that are a bit less economical. And other dealerships that sell high-end motorcycles with an average price of $15,000 say sales have remained relatively unchanged.
Joshua Palmer may be reached at 208-735-3231 or at jpalmer@magicvalley.com
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