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Motorcycle riders take advantage of their vehicle’s small size on a daily basis. From lane-splitting to parking, bikes have a small footprint and the ability to fit where cars, trucks, and SUVs simply cannot. Still, you might see a group of motorcycles parking in the same spot and wonder why bikes would do such a thing. So, is there a method behind motorcycles that park in the same spot?

Motorcycle riders choose parking in the same spot to conserve space, stick together, and remain visible

In some cases, especially in crowded towns and cities, motorcycle riders will park their bikes together in the same spot. Well, one of the reasons behind the practice is to conserve space. First, bikes don’t require a ton of real estate; four of your average standard bikes will fit comfortably in a compact car parking spot. As such, sharing a spot guarantees space for multiple bikes and frees up spaces for larger vehicles. It’s a win-win. 

Moreover, parking in the same spot can allow riders in a group to stick together and maintain communication. Taking off on a bike, unless you’re neglecting vital safety gear, typically takes longer than hopping in your car and hitting the road. Riders must don their protective jackets, gloves, and helmets. However, riders in the same spot can verify that the entire group is ready to go. 

Two motorcycle riders parking together rather than splitting up.
Two small motorcycles occupying the same parking spot | Nikkolia via iStock

Furthermore, as you might imagine, multiple motorcycles in the same spot are more visible than a single bike in a spot intended for a larger vehicle. It’s story time. My second motorcycle was a custom Harley-Davidson XL1200N cafe racer build in matte black. I think you know where I’m going with this. Well, in case you don’t, a polite, morally sound Southern California firefighter backed into my bike in San Clemente, causing damage without taking the bike off its kickstand.

I should note that he did the right thing. He left me a note with his contact information and paid for the repairs. However, it could just as easily have been a case of my beloved bike sitting on its side with no culprit in sight. On the other hand, parking with riding buddies may have been the difference between him seeing my bike and not.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).