Bike trips and adventures are exciting and thrilling. Whether done solo or with buddies, exploring the roads less travelled is a fulfilling and rewarding experience.
I am sure seasoned riders will relate.
This ultimate guide is aimed at helping bike enthusiasts prepare for their first motorcycle road trip.
Choose the right motorbike
The right bike for you is the one you are most comfortable with. If you are planning to hit rough, unmade roads on your journey you can choose to have certain modifications made to the bike. These modifications will depend on your route so talk to your mechanic and take their recommendations.
For long trips on uneven terrain, most riders prefer to change the seat and handlebars, add auxiliary lighting, install a better crash guard, and improve the quality of headlights and tyres. The idea is to ride comfortably rather than looking cool.
Wear protective motorcycle clothing
Dress to ride. If you are planning a long journey, make sure you have riding pants, jacket, boots, weatherproof clothing, sunglasses, knee, elbow guards, and of course, a good quality helmet.
Safety is the topmost priority; never compromise on that.
And while you may be tempted to wear a pair of joggers for a comfortable bike ride, in the event of a crash, loose clothing won’t offer you any protection.
Get your bike serviced
On the subject of safety, before embarking on your first road adventure, you must get your motorbike serviced.
This will ensure that you reduce the risk of breakdowns on route, and will give you peace of mind that the bike is in top condition for the trip.
Along with getting your bike serviced, clean it.
A bike works more efficiently, lasts longer, and looks so much better when it’s clean. Not just that! A clean motorcycle saves you a lot of money in the long run. So watch a bike cleaning youtube tutorial, get your hands on Muc off cleaning products, and start cleaning.
If you set out with a well maintained, clean bike, you’re more likely to take better care of it on your journey and return home with the bike in the best condition possible.
READ MORE ADVENTURE TRAVEL GUIDES FROM WANDERLUSTERS
Pack light, but don’t forget the essentials
You can choose from a range of metal and soft textile luggage options for your bike. From panniers to saddlebags, tank bags to tail bags, everything is available online.
When packing for your adventure, think about what you really need and only pack the bare minimum. You can always pick things up on route if you find you can’t live without something.
Do not forget to pack a first aid kit, a jerry can for fuel on the go, portable water filters, a paper map of your route, and a GPS system.
Don’t carry more clothes than you need. Try to reuse everything you can.
Stay hydrated and take regular breaks from riding
The best piece of advice I could give any motorbike rider is to stay hydrated. Bike rides are usually long and exhausting. That’s why it is essential to drink water throughout the journey. Make a pit stop every hour or so to give yourself a break and refuel your body.
With this in mind, it’s a good idea to carry your own water and snacks so that you can stop whenever you want. You can also invest in a hydration pack that allows you to drink water while riding.
Whenever you feel like your body needs rest, take a break. While it may be tempting to cover a certain distance for a set period of time, you must realize that the longer you ride the harder it is to concentrate.
Carry spare parts and essential tools
Every bike has different tool kit requirements. Your local mechanic can help you identify yours. The usual spare parts list includes an extra bike key, clutch, fuse, accelerator cable, headlight bulb and spark plugs.
The last tip, don’t forget to carry your license and bike papers.
INSPIRED? PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARD NOW!
So here it is – The Ultimate Guide For Your First Bike Trip. Leave a comment if you have your own tips and packing lists to share.
