Road trip on a bike? Here is what you should know

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Road trips with friends or family is an experience you’ll treasure for the rest of your life. But something that will prove to be even more memorable is a trip that’s taken on a bike. While it is true that it will be a lot more challenging as compared to one that’s made on a car, bike adventures can be really exhilarating.

Road Trip On a Bike: Things to know when you Plan

However, though more and more people are taking trips on their motorcycles, those who are going for the first time need to be mindful of a few crucial things.

Here, we’ve listed down some of the things you should know before leaving for the adventure.

Check the condition of your bike

Before you do anything else, you need to know whether or not your motorcycle is up for a long trip. While most bikes will work fine when you’re mmanoeuvring them inside a city, their real potential can only be known when you take them out for a more extended run.

Moreover, because you’ll be spending long hours on the motorcycle, you have to be sure to make it as comfortable as possible. If you have doubts about the seat, then modify it or fit a new one that doesn’t cause backaches and other common problems that bikers face.

Invest in proper attire

One of the most crucial things that you’ll need to do when going on a long trip is to wear an outfit that’s comfortable and can keep you safe from road rashes or any other hazards.

This is why you’ll need a biker leather jacket, the right pair of jeans, and boots that will protect you. If you think you’ll be braving rougher parts, you can even look into safety shoes and knees and elbows guards for extra safety.

When buying shirts, jackets, and pants, make sure the fitting is neither too tight nor loose otherwise you’ll end up being uncomfortable and distracted throughout the trip.

Make a checklist of essentials

Like any other road trip, you need to make sure you’re taking everything you’ll need during your road trip. However, one significant difference between travelling on a bike as opposed to going in a car is that you won’t be able to carry a whole lot.

Remember that experts recommend that you pack light when travelling on a bike as this will ensure that your trip goes smoothly.

Some of the essentials you’ll need other than your clothes are as follows

• A bottle of water
• Extra gloves and earplugs
• Waterproof gear and luggage
• Motorcycle tools
• A small first aid kit
• A map or GPS system
• Packets of shampoo
• Your smartphone charger
• Miscellaneous items

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Take frequent breaks

Unless you’ve decided to take part in a motorcycle race, you need to make sure that you stop riding for a few minutes after every few hours.

The number of breaks you take will also depend on your physical health and the terrain you’ve decided to pursue so make sure you know your limits. However, you must also remember not to make too many stops. Otherwise, you will end up losing your tempo, and this will affect your journey drastically.

Instead, take 5-10 minute breaks after every fewkilometress and then a longer one in between so you can get yourself refreshed. Also, plan your breaks according to the fuel in your tank because you wouldn’t want to be left stranded with anything left to take you forward.

Be prepared for a change in weather

No matter how sure you’re about the climate of your route, you have to be ready for surprises. Have rain gear with you at all times even if you’re touring in months when there’s no chance of rainfall. Also, invest in luggage that doesn’t get wet during the weather change otherwise you may risk getting your personals wet long before they’re out of the bag.

Ride with a light stomach

Big meals are a complete no-go for bike riders when they’re set out on an adventure. Because it will take your body a lot of work and effort to digest any meal, you will end up feeling drowsy if have a heavy breakfast or lunch.

So, instead of having full meals 3 times a day, stick to smaller portions and more frequent snacks so your energy levels can remain high without making you feel sleepy or tired. One of the best, most power-packed meal you could pack for your ride is an energy bar.

While it is crucial that you travel on a light stomach, you shouldn’t make the mistake of starving yourself either otherwise you’ll run the risk of feeling sick.

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Stay motivated

Finally, you need to remember that you may not always feel as excited as you did when you were planning this road trip. It doesn’t matter if you are traveling with some companions or alone because you might want to go back home and curl up in your bed after a few days of biking.

However, the end-goal is to stay motivated. Remind yourself why you set out on an adventure in the first place and make it a point to enjoy every hour of the ride.

Don’t overwork or stress yourself out to reach a particular destination at a specific time. Instead, focus on enjoying the journey.

Final words

Going on a road trip on a bike is no easy feat. It can be a downright challenging task and very different from traveling on a car or van because you’ll need to sit without a backrest for hours. However, if you follow the points we’ve talked about, you should be able to enjoy the road trip without any hurdles.