Tips for Long-Distance Motorcycle Riding

Whether you ride across town or across the country, one of the best parts of owning a motorcycle is the freedom to take it wherever you want. Taking your bike across the country is a great experience, but it requires slightly different preparation than when you’re just heading to work. We want to make sure that your long-distance bike riding adventure is perfect from start to finish. That’s why we’ve provided some suggestions to help you get ready for the big trip.

Plan Your Route

The longer the trip, the more you’ll want to plan your route in advance. It might sound fun to let spontaneity lead the way but when you find yourself in the middle of nowhere wasting money on gas and unnecessary lodging, you’ll probably wish you’d planned a bit better. In order to get the most bang for your buck while on a touring trip, you need to plan it in advance.

The first thing you’ll want to do is make a list of all the sites you’re interested in checking out along the way. Next, you’ll be able to plan a route that hits all these stops on the way. When you choose the fastest route, you’ll have more time available to spend at your chosen destinations. You can also choose a scenic route if you prefer to enjoy the ride a bit longer and aren’t in an immediate rush. Once your route is formed, start making your lodging reservations along the way. You’ll greatly reduce the costs of your trip by booking in advance.

Pack Wisely

Some riders have trouble packing light and bring just about anything they think they might need on their journey. It’s best to pack wisely and be conscious of the tendency to overpack, which will lead to lugging around unnecessary extra weight. Many of the items you’re tempted to toss in your bag can be found along the way. Leave these things at home if they aren’t totally necessary.

Take Breaks

Safety is key when you’re on a touring trip and taking regular breaks will play a big part in this. Stretch your limbs and prevent potential cramping and soreness. A good way to get your breaks is to plan them around scenic viewpoints or local spots so they’re fun and less of an inconvenience.

Touring is a great part of the motorcycle riding experience and here at St. Charles Harley-Davidson®, we want to make sure you experience it in the best way possible. Just make sure you have one of our professional mechanics look over your bike to ensure that it’s ready for your next big trip. We’re located in St. Charles, MO, and we welcome all those in St. Louis and St. Peters.