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Riding your motorcycle on the mean city streets is fun. You know what’s even more fun? Long-distance motorcycle road trips. You can ride and ride for as long as you want on a road that stretches forever through the outback. Though bike road trips can be a blast, they can also be dangerous, especially for the woefully unprepared. If you plan on going on a long bike trip in the near future, here are several tips to keep in mind:
The Road is Longer than You Think
If you have been on long road trips in a car before, don’t think your bike road trip will be the same. The point of using a car is to get to the destination quickly and as conveniently as possible. When you ride a bike, you enjoy the journey, rather than think about getting to the destination. Remember that you will have to ride without the comforts you would usually enjoy in a car (like naps). If you are not used to bike road trips, you will have to become very familiar with riding your bike to avoid fatigue and bum pain along the way.
Get Top Quality Gear
You must have the essentials ready for your long bike road trip. Shop for excellent motorbike helmets that keep your head safe and comfortable on long journeys. You may also want to invest in a good saddle to keep your backside comfortable as well. Flat saddles are more suited for long journeys that pre-formed ones. Other gear may include ear plugs, GPS devices and Bluetooth connectors.
Plan Your Route Carefully
When you travel in a car, you take the main highways. You might not want to do the same on your bike journey. Most tourist areas develop alternate routes to main roads. These usually go through scenic landscapes and are narrower and less congested than main highways. Plan your route along these sub-roads. You will be able to enjoy the scenery better and ride in peace. Choose roads you know you can ride on. Don’t choose potentially dangerous mountain roads for the heck of it. Safety first.
Take Breaks in Between
Your route should be planned to allow for plenty of breaks in between depending on your riding ability. In a car, you can easily switch drivers and take a nap if needed. This is not possible on a motorbike. Even though you can ride with a partner, and switch, you would still feel fatigued on a bike. Therefore, plan for rest stops for refuel and relax before you hit the road again. Remember, your journey should feel like one, not a tiring long-haul ride.
Mind the Speed
On a bike, it’s easy to speed. However, do learn to control your speeds. Don’t recklessly speed on highways and narrow roads. Though you don’t necessarily have to respect the speed limit on tourist alternate routes, your must ride safely. Be careful of your speed when there are other motorists or passersby around. If you are riding in a different country, learn driving rules and norms over there in advance.
Stick to the above tips to make your motorcycle road trip a memorable and pleasant vacation.
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