Things To Keep In Mind For Your Motorcycle Road Trip
Posted in: Driving Tips, News.
The summer is here and for many people, that means the opportunity for a road trip. This might be something you’re interested in if you’re a car driver. It might even be that you learned how to drive so you could have more road trips with friends and family.
However, if you have a motorcycle, there is no reason why you shouldn’t consider a road trip. Admittedly, you won’t be able to bring your family along for the ride, but even if it’s just you and the open road, you could have quite the adventure.
Still, don’t head off on your journey just yet. There are some important things to keep in mind before your trip. These include the following.
#1: Don’t overpack
Without the luxury of a car boot, you won’t be able to pack many belongings anyway. This doesn’t mean you can’t carry any luggage with you at all, of course, as there are all kinds of storage opportunities you could consider. Visit CTA Powersports, for example, and check out their range of Givi motorcycle bags and accessories.
But don’t go crazy with your belongings. The heavier your motorcycle is, the more fuel you will use, and that could prove expensive for you. This is especially true if you are going on a long journey. So, cut down on luggage by only taking the clothes you know you will wear and by carrying miniature toiletries in place of anything full size. Remember that you should also make room for some of these motorcycle journey essentials, so leave the kitchen sink at home and focus on the necessities.
#2: Be prepared for the weather
If you were a boy scout, you probably know the motto ‘be prepared.’ But even if you weren’t, you will already know that it’s wise to be prepared for what life could throw at you. In this context, we are thinking about the weather, as while the forecast might tell you it will be sunny and hot, there could still be the occasional rain shower. For this reason, don’t forget to pack your waterproofs, but make sure they can fit over your motorcycle gear first.
Still, the rain could be the least of your worries. When it is hot, you will need to take care when under the sun. It can be easy to become hydrated when riding a motorcycle, so remember to carry water with you, and take breaks when needed. There is some more advice here on riding your motorcycle in hot weather, including advice on what to wear. Have a read and take note of the tips given.
#3: Consider the safety risks
Riding a motorcycle at any time comes with safety risks. But especially when heading out on a road trip during the summer, these risks are amplified.
For one, you need to consider other road users. People will be out in force during the summer months, so there will be a higher chance of an accident. While you will be able to weave in and out of the traffic on occasion, there is still the risk of car doors opening when motorists are at a standstill. There are also the usual risks at junctions and other places where motorists might fail to see you.
Then there are the road conditions to consider. Tarmac can melt when under sweltering heat and parts of the road can crumble. Potholes are not uncommon in the summer months, although you should watch out for these at any time.
So keep these issues in mind and follow our other motorcycle safety tips to reduce the accident risk to yourself and other road users.
#4: Make sure your motorcycle is well-maintained
Finally, don’t set off on your road trip until you are sure your motorcycle is safe to ride. The last thing you want to happen is a breakdown or an accident, so check out these motorcycle maintenance tips and carry out the advice given. It’s also a good idea to take your motorcycle in for a service. There may be issues that you miss with your own checks, so for your peace of mind, it’s worth getting a professional opinion.
Conclusion
There’s nothing better than a road trip, especially if you’re somebody who likes adventure. The world is yours to explore, so be sure to research places to visit before you head out on your journey. Remember to take the roads less travelled too, as who knows what you might discover when on your bike ride. But remember to follow our suggestions. Your road trip will be a better one if you keep what we have discussed in mind, so be safe and sensible, and follow our words of wisdom.
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