What You Need to Know for Staying Comfortable on Your First Ever Motorcycle Road Trip
No matter what vehicle you’re planning on using for a road trip, you know that you need to stay safe. But when it comes to a motorcycle, it’s extra important. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of the open road, the wind in your face, and the sense of freedom that comes with exploring new places on two wheels. However, the excitement can quickly fade if you’re not physically comfortable.
Sure, there’s the mental comfort because you’re more vulnerable compared to a car. But the physical lack of comfort is going to really get to you, too; just think about it: there are long hours in the saddle that can take a toll on your body, turning what should be an exhilarating adventure into an exhausting ordeal.
Just imagine the potential back pain! But it can’t be that bad, right? After all, riding a motorbike across the country is seen as something that’s pretty popular. Well, there are ways to get more comfortable, so here’s what you need to know!
Table of Contents
You Need to Choose the Right Gear
For starters, you need to understand that comfort starts with the right gear. These should be an investment; you just can’t cheap them out! So, it’s not only about your equipment but also the actual motorbike. You don’t want anything that’s barely able to run—that’s one common mistake. Just like a regular car or caravan, you want a reliable vehicle for long travel.
So, if you’re truly invested in this, you might want to consider a high-quality motorbike such as the Norton Commando 961. But it’s not only the vehicle (granted, it’s a major component); your hat, gloves, and clothes are all going to play a role in safety and comfort!
Pack Smart and Light
When packing for your trip, remember that less is more. Actually, you have no choice! Just think about it: overloading your bike can negatively impact its handling and your comfort. You can only pack the essentials and aim to distribute the weight evenly across your bike. You’ll have to use saddlebags or a tail bag instead of a backpack, which can strain your shoulders and back over time. You’ll need to be extremely selective with what you pack, so keep that in mind.
Plan Your Route and Rest Stops
Generally speaking, when it comes to any road trip, this is something that should be done- no matter what the vehicle is. You need to go to rest stops! You can’t skip those! So, planning your route in advance can significantly enhance your comfort. So, it’s best to choose scenic routes with smooth roads and avoid heavy traffic areas whenever possible.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
When you’re in a car or caravan, you have more flexibility for snacking and drinking; you don’t have that on a motorcycle. Overall, long rides can be dehydrating, especially in warm weather. That’s why you need to have plenty of food and drink during your rest stops.
You Need to Dress in Layers
In many shows and movies, people are always wearing leather jackets, boots, and blue jeans. Sure, it’s the quintessential style, but it might not be the best decision. You need to remember that the weather can be unpredictable, especially on long trips. You’re out in the elements, so you need to keep warm and avoid getting wet, too.
