A motorbike road trip is an exciting experience. Being alone with your thoughts on an adventurous trip can be very interesting and should be done at least once in a lifetime. That said, if you are setting out on a long-distance ride on your motorbike, learning about a few helpful tips from people who do this regularly will probably make your rides better. 10 things to keep in mind before a motorcycle road trip.
It is crucial to be prepared for your first solo bike road trip. Whether you bring your own motorcycle or are planning to rent one, take all essential aspects into account before you set out on the road. This can make the journey more comfortable and hassle-free.
MOTORCYCLE ROAD TRIP |THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
1. Comfortable Bike
The bike you choose for motorcycle road trip, you must always be comfortable with it. In case you zero in on a bike that needs certain modifications to ensure it’s comfortable for you to handle, get it done immediately. Some common changes that riders make is getting a different handlebar, a more comfortable seat, guards, better headlights if they are going to do lots of evening riding, a new exhaust, etc. Remember, it’s not just about looking cool on the bike, but also riding it well.
2. Dress appropriately
For motorcycle road trip – especially on a motorbike – dressing appropriate is imperative. Always try wearing riding pants, a comfortable t-shirt, ankle boots, a full-face helmet, and bring the jacket you feel most comfortable with. If you are expecting a bumpy ride on two wheels, it’s best to pick elbow and knee guards for more protection. Wear fitted clothes as baggy gear can cause discomfort for long distance riding.
3. Pack light
There’s a brilliant range of motorcycle luggage available in the Indian market to choose from- starting from metal to soft textile luggage. There are saddle bags that you can harness on the back seat of your bike, tank bags which magnetically hug your tank & can carry lighter stuff, tailbags that can be bungeed to the back seat, etc. These too are available online or in moto stores & come in different sizes & styles to suit your bike kind. When packing, make sure to carry as much disposable stuff you can which can be used & discarded. This will help you cut down on a lot of weight as you travel.
Eg – instead of shampoo bottles, carry sachets; carry small soap bars, disposable toothbrushes which you can do away with on your ride back. Don’t unnecessarily carry a lot of changes of clothes, instead try & wash & reuse your clothes. My favorite motorcycle luggage comes from Dirtsack in India. Give the DSLR a miss & carry a digicam if you have one, which can be put in your pocket instead of packing it up in the luggage & taking it out every time you want to take some photos. Don’t fold your clothes – roll them, they take up less space that way. Essential medicines are a must.
4. Stay hydrated
Factors like ‘hydration’ often take a backseat when considering all important aspects of a motorbike road trip. You need to be backed up for proper hydration while on the go. Hydration is essential and if stopping for water bothers you, consider investing in a hydration pack. The water bottle in a bag not only keeps the water cold but also comes with a long tube that you can use for drinking water without stopping. Keeping yourself hydrated is very important to be on top of your game.
5. Don’t lose the map
Not all of us are genius with directions & remembering roads, but having a fair sense of which direction you are headed in & what route you are taking helps to avoid wasting time getting lost. Try & carry a screenshot of the map on your mobile or a printout of the same in case you want to. Don’t feel shy of asking locals on the way for directions & incase you see other riders on the way, you can also consult them, for all you know, you might just get to know of a more interesting route. Enjoy the ride and try & view other motorcyclists’ itineraries before you start.
6. Take breaks
You may need more rest while on a biking road trip than you usually take. Sitting on a bike for long hours without a break can cause saddle sores. Know when your body and bike are asking you to stop for a break. Avoid going overboard with it as it will only lengthen your trip and eventually make it frustrating. Use the break to rest and also to check if you need to refuel your tank and if your bike is in good conditions. This will save you from unexpected difficult circumstances.
7. Be prepared for unexpected weather
A lesson I have learnt on long motorcycle trips is that you should be prepared for rain at any point of time. Carrying raincoats & pants that will fit over your riding gear & raincoats for luggage are a must. Try & test your gear on a rainy day at home.
8. Carry essential tools & spares
Go to a mechanic & ask him what all essential spares would you need to take on your trip for the bike. Every bike has different requirements. A general list might include spare tube, spark plugs, break & accelerator cables, engine oil, etc.
9. Start on a light stomach
Eat light breakfast, try an early lunch & don’t overeat. Big meals take a lot of energy to digest and will make you drowsy. Besides, toilets on Indian roads are not very reliable & hard to come by. Carry some snacks & energy bars if you are the hunger pangs kinds.
10. Stay motivated
The most exciting part of a motorbike road trip is when you start enjoying it to the core. That’s when the experience will become outright beautiful. Feeling tired and frustrated can mess up the entire plan. So, keep the spirit high no matter the circumstances.
Similar Post – TREKKING GUIDE – 10 EXPERT TIPS
Frequently asked questions about Motorcycle road trip
Q. Are motorcycles good for road trips?
A – The bike you ride can make all the difference during your next adventure motorcycle tour. Touring bikes make long road trips much more comfortable and safe, while your average street bike might leave your muscles cramped and your whole body burned out. … So, let’s take a look at the best touring motorcycles of 2020.
Q. How far can you ride a motorcycle in one day?
A – Most riders can handle about 250 – 300 miles on average in one day. But, there are a lot of different factors that will determine how far you should ride a motorcycle in a day.
Q. How should I prepare for a motorcycle road trip?
A – Here are top 8 important tips you shouldn’t miss:
- Choose your ride wisely. If you are planning a road trip on your bike, make sure it is a comfortable one.
- Pack light.
- Dress appropriately.
- Stay hydrated.
- Take breaks.
- Don’t lose the map.
- Be prepared for unexpected weather.
- Get those earplugs.
Q. What is the best motorcycle for long distance riding?
A – The Best Touring Motorcycles for the Long Haul
- BMW R1200 RT Specs. Engine: 1,170cc, air/water-cooled, flat twin.
- Yamaha FJR1300 ES Specs. Engine: 1,298cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder.
- KTM 1290 Super Adventure Specs.
- Triumph Tiger 800 XCx Specs.
- Ducati Multistrada Specs.
- Suzuki V-Strom 1000 ABS Specs.
- Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide Ultra Specs.
- Indian Roadmaster Specs.
Q. What is the smoothest riding motorcycle?
A – 3 Most Comfortable Cruiser Motorcycles on the Market Today
- The BMW R 1200 GS. Without a doubt, the BMW R 1200 GS is one of the most popular cruising motorcycles on the market, a position that it’s held for a long time.
- The Suzuki V-Strom 650.
- The Honda Gold Wing.
Q. Which bike is best for road trip?
A – List of Top 8 Touring Bikes in India
- Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350. It is, perhaps, quite unsurprising that the first bike in this list is a Royal Enfield.
- Bajaj Avenger Cruise 220.
- Harley Davidson SuperLow.
- KTM 390 Duke.
- Honda CBR 250R.
- Royal Enfield Himalayan.
- Mahindra Mojo XT300.
- Jawa Perak.
Q. How often should you ride your motorcycle?
A – Though once a week is a whole lot better than some who go entire months without getting on the bike. I’d suggest a goal of at least 5,000 km a year, with 3,000 of that in the months with the best riding weather in your area.
Q. Are cruiser motorcycles good for long rides?
A – Cruiser and Standard Motorcycles – Cruiser and standard motorcycles are also comfortable options, as they both have a lower, relaxed seating position that is good for long rides. However, one of the features that they typically lack is a large front fairing to deflect the wind around you completely.
Q. What is the most comfortable motorcycle riding position?
A – The “Standard” or “upright” riding position is generally accepted as being the most comfortable one on average across all shapes and sizes of riders because it’s a neutral one. It places the least strain on any joints and places the spine in a natural position of rest.
Q. Is bullet good for long ride?
A – Yes bullet 350 is most reliable motorcycle for long trips. … Yes its perfect for long rides and road trips.
Q. How long will a Royal Enfield last?
A – 30 years Reasons why one should own a Royal Enfield:
“These can last up to 30 years easily, if maintained well”. 2. Ride Quality – The bikes are heavier; these will provide unmatchable highway stability
Q. How many km Royal Enfield can run nonstop?
A – In my experience i ridden for 580 km at a stretch in my RE 500 classic . The bike can keep going but its up to the rider. Most Important Chain should be lubed ever 250 km on ride.
