A Brief Guide: How To Have Great Road Trips On Motorcycles
Being on an adventurous trip alone with your thoughts sounds very interesting, doesn’t it? That being said, learning about a few useful tips from experienced motorcycle riders will probably make your trips better if you’re planning to set out on some long-distance rides.
Before setting out on the road, it’s important to take all essential aspects into consideration, whether you’re going to rent a motorcycle or bring your own. Doing so could result in a hassle-free and more comfortable journey.
If you want to have a great road trip on a motorcycle, here are five tips you shouldn’t miss:
Choose The Right Motorcycle
Make sure that you have the right motorcycle for your weight and height, whether you’re bringing your own ride for the trip or renting one. It’s important that your motorbike is comfortable enough and can accommodate you well. Remember that you’ll be seated on your motorcycle in the same position for several hours. That being said, have the seats, suspension, backrests, footpegs, and handlebars all set up and adjusted properly for your height, as well as riding position.
Also, don’t forget that the choice of ride will be based on the riding type you plan to do. Are you sticking to paved roads or going for some off-roading adventure? Knowing and understanding the kind of riding you plan on doing will help narrow down your choices. You’ll know exactly whether you need an adventure bike, a cruiser, a touring bike, or, maybe, something completely different.
Failing to check on these things often increases the chance of getting involved in road accidents. Instead of calling your friends and relatives to let them know about all the fun you’re having on the road, you’ll end up calling an Orlando car accident lawyer or the nearest personal injury attorney in your location.
Pack As Light As Possible
Today, there are already various luggage carriers for motorcycles available. Some can be fixed on the backseat or on the sides of the bike easily, like the saddlebags. Others include magnets that will allow them to hug your bike’s tank or tail right away, such as tank bags and tail bags.
You must also carefully decide on your luggage, in addition to selecting the right bag. Always prefer packing light when going on a motorcycle road trip. It’s a good idea to get mostly disposable stuff so that it’s easy to discard them after use. Also, carrying many changes of clothes is something you should avoid.
Bring Tools
Before heading out on your trip, especially if it’s a long one, have a professional service your bike. Note that when you return, the servicing must be done again. It’s also important to check the fluid levels, lights, tires, and brakes of the motorcycle even if it’s newer or recently serviced. If there are any loose bolts, tighten them.
Continuous maintenance is often required in long-haul road trips. That’s because long-haul motorcycle trips commonly encounter oil that needs to be refilled, parts rattling loose, and tires wearing out. With that said, carrying a basic toolkit is always a good idea to prepare for any roadside fixes.
Dress Appropriately
For motorcycle rides or any other road trips, it’s very important to dress appropriately. Wear your full-face helmet, riding pants, and ankle boots. Also, don’t forget the jacket and t-shirt you feel most comfortable with.
For more protection, it’s best to pick knee and elbow guards, especially if you’re expecting a bumpy ride. What many motorbike riders also don’t realize is that wearing baggy gear can result in discomfort when riding long distances, so wear fitted clothes instead.
Don’t Forget Your Map
If you’re not that good at remembering roads, a motorcycle road trip is the perfect time for you to embrace technology by relying on GPS. You can also consider investing in a high-tech helmet, like one with Bluetooth technology that can give you GPS directions.
Of course, carrying the maps’ hardcopy is, still, helpful in case you’re going to travel to remote areas with intermittent or no network connection at all. Also, don’t hesitate to ask locals if you think you’re lost.
Final Thoughts
You’re almost a hundred percent ready once you follow the tips discussed above. However, there’s one more important thing to do: crafting a backup plan. What will you do if road constructions will suddenly place you on a dirt road when you’re expecting a paved highway? What if you’ll encounter inclement weather that will make continuing with your planned direction so difficult? You have to be ready for these eventualities.
Related: How to maintain your motorcycle chain
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