Motorcycle Booster

Planning professor Melvin Webber is right when he says that our highways create the best ground transportation system yet devised (“Future Gridlock: Blame All the Empty Seats, Expert Says” by Connie Koenenn, April 12).

The problem is not the highways; the problem is the crowding on these arteries; too many people going too many places, and that number is inevitably going to increase. The solution, at least for Southern California, is to emphasize smaller vehicles--like motorcycles. If just half the drivers of single-occupant cars opted for two wheels rather than four, our traffic flow problems would be resolved for the foreseeable future. Four or more motorcycles can fit into one parking spot for a car.

The climate around here is ideal for motorcyclists, with warm weather and sunshine 90% of the time. You say you don’t know how to ride? There is now a state-funded motorcycle training program for all new riders with a toll-free number: (800) 227-4337.

A new freeway-legal motorcycle can cost as little as $1,500, used ones a good deal less. The mandatory liability insurance can cost less than $100. Get rid of that second car and get a motorcycle instead . . . and free up a big section of your garage.

Motorcycles are convenient, economical and a sound alternative to the automobile in the increasing chaos of urban and suburban highway traffic. Plus, they are fun to ride, and the pleasure starts when you put the key in the ignition. A motorcyclist can enjoy the silver lining in the cloud of the daily commute.

CLEMENT SALVADORI

Laguna Beach