Important Tips for Your First Motorcycle Road Trip

If you are the kind of person who loves exciting experiences and dares to be different, a motorcycle road trip could be just what you need. It is an excellent way to experience the people, places and fauna of a country. 

Whether you plan for a solo trip or join a group of riders, it is crucial to prepare. Here are tips to help make that first motorcycle road trip unforgettable.

Plan, plan and plan some more

As a first-time rider, you can never be over-prepared. Learn as much as possible from experienced riders about motorcycle road trips. If you use your motorbike as a vehicle for your daily commute or ride it only for a couple of kilometres over the weekend, don’t jump straight into a long road trip, you can hire the same from Motorcycle rental France. Prepare your body by exercising regularly. Also, take a few shorter practice rides during the weekends to warm for the big road trip. 

The more your mind and body are ready for an endless six to seven-hour ride, the more comfortable you will be during the first trip. 

Choose the right motorcycle

Consider adjusting the motorbike to make it more comfortable. The seat should be soft and comfortable, handlebars at the right height, and the bike should be easy to operate. However, if you are planning to rent a two-wheeler, pick a comfortable one.

Here is what you can do to prepare for such mishaps:

• Before leaving, have the motorcycle thoroughly checked and serviced by a professional.
• Carry a simple toolkit and learn some basic motorbike repair skills.
• Carry some spare parts like bulbs and fuses. Also, carry a pencil-type tyre pressure gauge and a flashlight.
• Double-check with atrusted motorcycle insurer to ensure they provide roadside assistance for motorcycles.

Besides these, the team at Motorcycle Safety Lawyers warn to choose a bike that has a windshield. The thought of feeling the wind blow as you speed on the open highway could be tempting, but after five or six hours, it is physically draining and could be dangerous. Save yourself the exhaustion and get a bike with a proper windshield. 

Pack right 

You may pick a motorcycle with plenty of storage spaces. But it can’t match a station wagon or a minivan. Choose your luggage right and pack just enough to fit in the side and back saddlebags.  

Make a list of what you would like to pack. Then prioritize what you must absolutely bring along and leave the rest behind. Where possible, use disposable stuff so that you can get lighter as you travel. 

Dress appropriately – brace for the elements

Speaking of clothes, perhaps your idea of appropriate fashion for the ride is trashy jeans, a heavy leather jacket, and aviator sunglasses. It would be nice to look cool, but it is not what you need for the trip. Your priority is safety, comfort, and usability. And that’s hard to pull off while wearing trashy jeans and a leather jacket. Here’s what you should put first on your list.

A proper helmet. Although wearing a helmet might not be required by law in some jurisdictions, it is an absolute must-have. Studies show that a helmet reduces the chances of fatality, in the event of an accident, by 34%. Plus, it reduces the risk of brain injury by 67%. 

A good pair of gloves. Not only does it improve your control of the bike, but in case of a fall, the gloves will protect your hands from injury.  

Comfortable attire. With your head and hands (the body parts essential for riding) covered, you can think about other garments. Think fitting layers of comfortable clothing – garments easy to remove or wear depending on the weather conditions. Plus, body armour for protection. Look for specialized gear that is abrasion-resistant and waterproof – not that fancy leather jacket. Also, include a rain suit, gloves, and boot liners in your packing list. You will thank us in the event you encounter bad weather along the route. 

Take breaks, eat well and stay hydrated

As you consider the route, think about where you will stop for breaks. You need to eat and hydrate. Keep a water bottle or a hydration pack handy. Staying hydrated is crucial because it keeps you on top of your game. The same goes for eating. Check along the route for spots where you can have a healthy meal. Plan to stop over during off-peak hours. Otherwise, you could end up spending your biking time in queues waiting for food. 

Besides stopping to eat and hydrate, plan for regular breaks. Sitting on the bike for extended hours without a break can cause saddle sores. Do not overstretch your body and risk frustrating your experience or losing your concentration. 

As you stop to rest or recharge your body, check the fuel level and bike’s vitals. It could save you from emergencies when you are in the middle of the highway. 

Have a plan for the unforeseen

No matter how well-prepared you may be for the road trip, there is always a chance of an emergency. It could be a flat tyre or a broken part. Maybe the bike will break down, and you may need some rescuing. Here is what you can do to prepare for such mishaps:

• Before leaving, have the motorcycle thoroughly checked and serviced by a professional. 
• Carry a simple toolkit and learn some basic motorbike repair skills. 
• Carry some spare parts like bulbs and fuses. Also, carry a pencil-type tyre pressure gauge and a flashlight. 
• Double-check with the insurer to ensure they provide roadside assistance for motorcycles. 

Remember to bring along a first-aid kit and a means of communication like a mobile phone. We know you want to be away from civilization. But it will come in handy if you need to call for help or let people know how you are doing. 

Conclusion

These tips are crucial and will help make your first road trip enjoyable and memorable. But remember, the most important thing is to enjoy your trip. A motorcycle road trip wouldn’t mean much if you don’t get to savour every kilometre. So, take time to enjoy the road and country.