I'm noticing a massive spike of forum users/visits

[Megadan]

Combination of all of the things already discussed. Smaller/cheaper bike sales are climbing very rapidly, more so than usual even for 'tax season." With the economy being ravaged by inflation and interest rates so high, people are looking for any way they can cut costs. New car voluntary and forced repossessions are at a record high level that hasn't been seen in over 30 years. The payments for these cars are too high for the average person to afford.

A small cheap motorcycle to use for commuter duty that gets 60-100mpg and can ride on cheap motorcycle tires that costs only a few thousand or less is very appealing.

I can even support my theory with some personal experience, because I have 3 different friends/acquaintences that have all started asking me questions about my bikes, how to get the endorsement, etc. One of them even said that they (his family) needs a second vehicle for the summer but they can't afford a car, so he is looking at cheaper new bikes to help fill their need so he can get to work and his family can have the car to use.

I think that is one of the big reasons the Royal Enfield bikes in particular have become so popular. Also why we are seeing more 300-500cc range bikes not only come on the market but in such variety.

In particular, I have noticed an increase in the number of scooter riders out on the streets in the last year or so.