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Anonymous Anonymous said...
In the city where crime rampant, and as FerFal has recommended, a 4WD with a massive front bumper would be the best choice for the reasons already stated. I have such a truck.
In the country where hopefully crime won't be so serious, or in the city when only necessary, a good used motorcycle can be an inexpensive backup for a primary vehicle. It is dangerous to store gasoline and in the case of fuel shortages or high prices, it might be your only option. My choice is a old 1969 Honda CT90 (Trail 90) with 1,700 miles. It is like new and the breed is as reliable and durable as this class of motorcycles get. New and used parts are widely available. New production Honda CT110/90's are being made for Australia for the farm (CT110AG) and Postal service, CT110. They are simple to work on, and as versatile as it gets. With a high/low transmission they climb steep hills and tow lighter loads(yes, they can tow a trailer) and have large carrying rack in the back. These are good for hunting and shopping. Fuel consumption is right up there with a scooter at 80 to 100 per gallon, and top speed is about 45mph. Another choice might be a 49cc scooter, such as the Honda C70, as no insurance or license is required in most states.
A car is much safer if you can afford one. Having a small motorcycle as an option, could however prove to be invaluable. And in the case when the Honda breaks down, a used bike cycle or two from garage sales and thrift stores, is a very cheap way to go.
a
If crime is a serious problem in the area, that pretty much defines it for me, specially when times get tough: Car all the way.
If there's no such problem or if moving around a safer location then sure,even use a bicycle to use no gas at all and stay in shape, at least for shorter distances.
Even though 4WD is nice I'd avoid super large trucks, you may need to navigate through tighter spots and its easier to slip between barricades, cars debris, etc. You want to be able to react fast. Of course the bike is the fastest to react, but comes at a cost of having no protection against accidents, ambushes or objects thrown at you, and make no mistake, this happens all the time. If a trap is set, maybe you have a chance with a car, specially if it has run flat tires, security film on windows or even much better, you have an armored vehicle. With a bike you're going down for good.
Of course sometimes you see these and turn around, but I'd strongly advice everyone not to bet their lives on that. Eventually you fail to see something and you get hit, no one's perfect.
Of course expensive, but having saved many lives here already, an armored car is something I'd put my money into if I had the pocket for it and want to ensure my family's safety in 3rd world type of crime settings.
FerFAL