Helmet Hair’s
TOP
TEN:
Best Moto
Cities
Planning a move? Want to
commune in a more moto-savvy environment? HH seeks and
finds the ten most motorcycle friendly cities to live in
the USA.
#1
San Francisco, California
It’s no surprise that
San Francisco ranked numero uno, known for being a Mecca
for America’s counterculture. The city’s attitude
screams motorcycle with its distinct atmosphere and
rich diversity. Conveniently located where moto season
is year round, barely rains and the sun often
shines. The Pacific Coast Highway (Hwy 1) is available
24/7 for its stunning views and twisty turns. San
Francisco is also the first US city recognized as a
Climate Action Leader, dedicated to the improvement of
the environment.
#2.
Houston, Texas
The
Sunshine. The People. The luxury of being able to ride
or commute on your motorcycle almost 365 days a year.
Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth
largest city in the United States. Prospects abound in
this big city with the advantage of a 44% below national
average cost of living and a abundance of job
opportunities. Fun doesn’t stop there, break from city
life, cruise to the Galveston beach that is Houston’s
playground.
#3.
Gainesville,
Florida
Flourishing in the heart of North Central
Florida between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of
Mexico, stays true to the call of the biker’s soul with
sunny days and breezy nights. Informally known as
“Hogtown”, could it be from all the H-D motorcycles
roaming the streets or the creek that runs through it?
Get in touch with Floridian roots on the Old Florida
Heritage Highway that meanders through portions biding
with scenic lakes, wetlands, forest, and rural
homesteads covering sixty-five percent of the county -a
nature lover’s paradise.
#4.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philly is the oldest and most
historically significant city in the United States.
Living and cruising through the communities of active
living heritage will take you back in time to the birth
of our nation. Rediscovering the rich architecture and
ambiance of the “city of brotherly love.” 'Philadelphia
soul' beats the music airwaves, as the stock exchange
hums along. Deep in it nation's heritage and one of the
major financial headquarters for Fortune 500 companies
makes Philly a definite fit for the enterprising rider
of any iron horse.
#5.
Islip, Long Island, New York
Beaming with an air of sophistication, Islip on Long
Island is known for a strong middle class with a
dedication to hard work, family life, and community.
These city qualities cater to a motorcyclists sense of
camaraderie. No wonder CNN Money 2005 lists Islip as
“The Safest Place to Live in the US.” Enjoy residing in
suburbs that encompass ocean beaches, sparkling bays,
historic village treasures and charming wineries, which
fulfills a rider’s psyche for beauty and tranquility.
#6.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland Rocks!
Music lover, businesswoman or sports fan- a city truly
built by the people for the people. Motorcycles are just
another added facet to what makes Cleveland’s attitude
rock. While taking a break from music fests, the
Cleveland Browns and researching fuel cells, a rider can
cruise a scenic byway such as the Lake Erie Coastal
Trail or the Heritage Corridors of Bath. Heck yeah! it
was voted one of the most livable cities by The
Economist in 2005.
#7.
Elgin, Illinois
Small town Victorian
era charm and ambiance is what likely draws a biker in,
but don’t be fooled, this city is rapidly growing to fit
all your modern needs. Grassroots organizations, pride
and a strong spirit of volunteerism keep the community
bustling together, earning Elgin the National Civic
League’s prestigious All-American City Award - not once,
but twice. One organization of sorts, is the Grand
Victorian Riverboat Casino, once a point of controversy,
now a significant source of income for nonprofit
agencies around town. No wonder Elgin’s character
definitely caters to the generous nature of many
motorcycling clubs across the nation.
#8.
Lansing, Michigan
Lansing, also known
as the “Cool City,” is the only place hardcore enough to
park your motorcycle in your living room. Urban renewal
projects have turned many a warehouse district into
trendy loft style apartments. The steel and stone
industrial aura of the city has beckoned many bike
coinsures to reside. Extreme as it gets, hill climb racing
was practically born in this city, thanks to the world
famous Jack Pine Enduro provided by the ever adventurous
Lansing Motorcycle club started in the 1920’s. Tall
buildings and taller hills are what give Lansing its
revealing distinction. Don’t forget, it's also strategically
located to lead you to fishing the Great Lakes or
absorbing some four wheelin’ in the nearby famous “Motor
City,” Detroit.
#9.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Looking for a good place to hang your helmet?
How about between the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and
the inviting beaches of the Atlantic ocean? This city
offers the best of both worlds, revealing the true
personality of our nation. Raleigh has grown 50% over
the last decade - 35% are newcomers from
around the world, bringing their own traditions and
cultures, which richly blend with Raleigh's southern
hospitality. All resulting in a robust city that offers
a variety in
recreation, jobs and people.
#10.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The 'City of Festivals,'
'Brew City,' 'A Great Place on a Great Lake,' or 'Birthplace of the
Harley Davidson Legend,' what term could we use that's
not be taken to label the
extraordinary city of Milwaukee? Of course it made the Top
Ten list! To live in Milwaukee is to pay tribute to our
motorcycle ancestors. American pride combined with
good friends and good times places any motorcyclist at
ease...they say it is like 'coming home.'
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