practicality

While I agree motorcycles are pretty terrific, cars are more useful in the long run. It's better to go with the safe and practical option unless you know someone who is almost always available to help for when you need a car.

MPG often depends upon the user, although the numbers are good to know. But that number varies from how far you go, where you go, how much you use that mode of transportation, its condition and even fuel.

Also consider where you'll mainly be traveling (city streets, how crowded they can get, weather patterns, etc) and what you may have to bring here and there whether for school or other things. The thrill of a motorcycle can be cut down sharply if you're stuck in traffic or have constant stops (in my opinion). And will you be working while attending school? Maybe leasing a car will bring you that style you want.

I would point out...do you really want to be driving through vancouver rain on a motorcycle? On the plus side, you can avoid a lot of the stop and go via commuting on marine drive. Not all, but a lot.

Of course my advice is to not get a vehicle in the first place, all things considered. Though it might become more affordable if you can convince the passengers-to-be to chip in for gas.