Routes to bike: Seven Tips for Long Motorcycle Trips

So you’re thinking about taking a nice, long trip on your motorcycle for vacation. If you haven’t taken a long ride before, you should be aware that there’s a fair amount of preparation that should go into any prolonged trip. Since a motorcycle has less protection and storage options than a car, it takes proper planning to make your trip a success. Here are some tips for taking your motorcycle on a long ride.

Service your bike before you hop on for your trip.  Make sure your bike’s running smoothly, has fresh oil, all the lights work and proper tire inflation. If your bike has been making funny noises or feeling unsteady, definitely get it looked at before starting your journey. You don’t want to get a hundred miles in and find your only mode of transportation now is a tow truck! So consider having the bike serviced long enough in advance of your trip so that major repairs can be accomplished without interrupting your travel plans.

Make the most use of your bike’s  storage capabilities and pack lightly. If your bike does not have saddle bags or a trunk,  consider a backpack, but they tend to get uncomfortable and heavy during long trips. Research storage attachments like motorcycle luggage racks and find one that best suits your needs and your packing habits. These racks don’t put any added pressure on your body and allow you to carry  more than just the clothes on your back. As for packing, make sure to bring only things that you truly need. If you can get by without it, it should probably be left at home. If you can easily replace it in a convenience store while on the road, same conclusion. Remember, less is more!

Buy a rain suit. Chances are, you’ll be riding in all kinds of weather. Make sure you have a windproof and waterproof suit to keep you warm and dry. The only thing worse  than riding a motorcycle for hours soaked to the bone is being soaked to the bone for hours after riding your motorcycle!

Bring extra rope or bungee cords. If your luggage slips off the rack or isn’t steady enough, you’ll be glad you have an extra way to secure it.

Be aware of your bike’s gas tank and your own.  Eat when you’re hungry. Get gas before you’re at the empty mark.

Be watchful of the weather, the road conditions, the wind resistance and your own fatigue. Stop when you need to, and don’t ride at break-neck speeds. The point of a long-distance ride is to enjoy it, not to get through it as quickly as possible.

Have fun! This is a vacation from your everyday life. Just you, your bike and the open road— so enjoy it, safely!

Get into an accident on the open road? Call Orlando’s Motorcycle Accident Law Firm.