Road trips are amazing experiences, regardless of the transport. But if you want to hit the road and feel it beneath your wheels, taking a road trip via motorcycle can be extra special. There’s no better way to see the world than on a motorcycle, because it gives you an up-close connection to your surroundings and will help you to embrace the sights, sounds, and smells on a far more intimate level. But of course, it comes with its own share of challenges. What are some of the things you need to keep in mind before you head off?
The Right Motorcycle
Whether you are renting or you are riding your own, you’ve got to make sure that it is the right one for the type of riding you plan on doing, as well as it is size appropriate to your weight and height. You don’t want it to be an uncomfortable ride to the point that it becomes so much of a distraction that you could end up in an accident.
While this is the worst-case scenario, the reality is that if you consult any motorcycle accident lawyer, a lot of the reasons people crash comes from distracted driving. Therefore, make sure the motorcycle is properly set up, such as the footpegs, handlebars, and suspension is working right.
Packing Properly
A long-distance trip means that you’ve got to bring the right items that will keep you safe and comfortable without being overbearing on your bike’s suspension. You need to invest in a full touring suit to ensure that you can deal with the weather conditions, but you also need to have multiple layers of clothes.
Waterproof boots are also essential but also think about the things that will keep you going. Riding for hours on end can take its toll, and you may not notice how tired you are until you’ve stopped. Energy bars can make a big difference here, just in case you’re out on the road for longer than you anticipated.
Planning the Trip
As ideal as it would be to go wherever you fancy, you’ve got to ensure that you are planning breaks and making sure that your motorcycle can endure the journey. You need to make sure that you are enjoying the journey, and you need to take it easy, especially if this is your first time. You should always stop whenever you feel like you need to as this will help keep you sharp. Motorcyclists can be incredibly vulnerable, and this is why you need to be sensible with your planning.
Pack Tools
You may hope for the best while you’re out on the road, but in order to make sure your bike is giving you what you need, you’ve got to get it serviced before you head off and do so again upon your return. Long road trips will require you to pack the right things, so ensure that you have a tool kit. There are some fantastic pre-assembled toolkits out there, which can provide the perfect place to begin.
A road trip can be an amazing experience, as long as you go into it with your head (and helmet) on.
