Going on long routes on your motorcycle is one of the greatest pleasures in life. The motorcycle community yearns for long trips, be it solo or in groups. However, if unprepared, these trips can be very challenging and create a lot of hassle. Adequate preparation is necessary, which most riders are either unaware of or simply ignore. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. You’re in the hands of long-ride prep gurus.
Today, we’ll be telling you what mandatory things are to be done before leaving, so grab your pen and notebook and pay attention.
Mechanical Condition
First and foremost, check the oil level and the condition. If an oil change is due in a few miles, get it done before leaving. Next,check your tire pressure and treads. If the treads are worn out,you might lose grip, and you know what they say, “Weaker grip means stronger slip.” Now, grab your wrench and find any loose bolts and screw them tight. Time for the electrics. Check your lights, horn, indicators, and most importantly, your battery. Last but not least, check your brake pads and fluids to ensure a
smooth ride for the entirety of your trip. If you want to get some guru-level prep, after doing these mandatory checks, take your motorcycle down to the mechanic and get some tuning and tweaks done there.
Gear Up
Kind of stating the obvious here because motorcyclists love riding gear, but for those who don’t, choosing the right gear is very important. When it comes to helmets, pick the ones with the highest safety ratings and certifications, and also keep comfort in mind. Use riding gloves for a finer grip on the handlebars. Have your luggage strapped to your bike for safety and stability. Having waterproof gear is a bonus because you don’t know when it is going to pour. If your seat has gotten a bit stiff over the years, try to get it changed or find a way to get it softened, because traveling for long on the hard seat will cause you fatigue. If you have a licensed firearm, carry it with you if you believe the route that you are taking might have any security risk.
Route Plan
Plan your route, and I mean it when I say it. Check your maps and GPS systems and calibrate them according to your route. Mark the gas station locations and keep them in mind. Download offline maps to ensure GPS services at all times. If you plan on taking breaks during traveling, book your accommodations in advance. Keep backup or alternate routes prepared in case of any emergency or road blockages. Before departing, share your live location or entire travel itinerary with your close ones.
Golden Carries
If you carry what needs to be carried, it will carry you throughout your journey. Handy items such as tools, tire patching kits, chain cleaning kits, flashlights, power banks, fuses/bulbs, and tapes go first. Keep a smallish first aid box with you, because you don’t know what’s going to hit you once you hit the road. If you have any medical conditions or allergies, make sure to keep your prescribed medicines with you. Carry empty water bottles and clean rags with you; they come in handy sometimes. Make sure to carry one-use soaps and non-perishable edible items such as biscuits.
Paper Trouble
You’re in the middle of nowhere on your motorcycle, and a cop pulls you over. He asks for your documents, and you are doomed now. To keep this from happening, always ride with your complete travel documentation required by the law of the place you’re in. Keep your documents in a safe and secure but also easily accessible spot in case you need them. If you are traveling across borders or to a new country, keep your passport and other required documents with you.
Bonus Tips
You are in for an excellent trip, but let’s just make it easier. Keep some cash with you because if you are traveling to any remote or rural areas, they tend to be more cash-dependent. Keep charging your phone and other devices whenever you get the chance. Try to wear shoes without laces because they sometimes get entangled in the footrest. Keep a small bottle of fuel with you in case you run out of fuel and the next gas station is a bit further.
Last but not least, load your luggage, prep your gear and bike, and do some practice trips in your area. Try making some routine maneuvers and turns just to get in touch with the loaded motorcycle before you leave for the grand voyage. Apply reflective tape on your bike and helmets to improve visibility in low light and foggy times.
Conclusion
Our job is to help you enjoy your ride and get the best possible experience you can get. If you act upon the above measures, not only will you have a safe and secure trip, but you will also be self-reliant the next time you take on such an endeavor. That was all from this little guru, and we wish you a pleasant trip!
