When I first started riding in the mid sixties, More motorcyclists were young men, today it seems like most are older men. BMW's were also always in the minority and usually ridden by older riders. Mostly touring riders. Back then a lot of young guys could not afford automobiles and used motorcycles for their main mode of transportation, not so today. Motorcycles have become a luxury item and young families can't afford to be spending on single purpose luxury items. Older guys can and do. Nationwide the median age for licensed motorcyclists is 41 years old. Much older than in the 80's.