Long distance riding requires far more planning
and preparation than its car trip equivalent. For riders who compete in
endurance riding events, the time and preparation each event takes is second nature.
However, for the younger riders who are new to the experience, the daunting
concept of riding thousands of miles on our beloved bikes and all the planning
can be more than overwhelming. Though the ride welcomes a sense of freedom and
limitless possibilities, a little forethought and preparations is an absolute
necessity for endurance rides. Before you hit the open road to follow those
yellow lined highways, consider these important measures for safety, wellbeing,
and good riding.
Carefully
Inspect Your Bike
Your bike acts as your legs—obviously it's
essential that you carefully inspect and doctor your motorcycle prior to your
trip. Motorcycle maintenance is absolutely vital to your success and safety on
the road. While a detailed inspection by a professional is definitely needed,
the most efficient way to inspect your bike on your own before traveling is the
T-CLOCS approach. T-CLOCS is an acronym for Tires, Controls, Lights, Oils and
Fluids, Chassis, and Stands.
These are the fundamental elements of your bike
that you should look at carefully before you embark on any long distance ride.
Make sure that both tires are properly inflated. Be sure to check the air
pressure of your tires with the pressure gauge that you will take with you on
your ride. Make sure all your cables and controls are intact and working
correctly. Check your headlights, turn signals, and brake lights. Make sure
everything from your engine oil and coolant to you brake fluid are in place.
Look at the frame, suspension, chain, and fasteners to make sure they are all
secure and intact. As the final step make sure that the center stand and/or
side stand isn't cracked or damaged. Check the springs to ensure that they
properly hold the assembly away from the pavement when stowed. T-CLOCS is your
quick reference for bike inspection, but be sure you see a professional too.
Packing
Necessities
Packing for a long distance motorcycle ride can
be a challenging thing. It's important that you find a comfortable balance
between bringing enough items to ensure comfort on your trip and not
overloading your ride with unnecessary weight. Once you've mapped out your
ride, you should look at things like weather forecasts and environmental
factors. When packing clothes, it can be wise to pack several light weight thin
items that you can layer. It's much better to have to stop to adjust your
layers and shed some articles than to shiver or sweat your way through a long
ride. After all, long rides like this are all about enjoying the experience and
the road. As far as food and drink goes, this can be challenging. This is where
bulkiness comes in and packing can be a challenge. Think about energy bars,
trail mix, and water. You want food items that pack in all the necessities in
one small package. Water is obviously the most important thing. Be sure that
you have enough water packed to hold you over on long stretches of road that
might not have a gas station or store.
Review
Your Insurance Policies
Part of planning for a long distance competition
or just ride is very much about forethought and preparedness. Before your ride,
look through your motorcycle insurance policy and make sure that you have all
the protection you'll need. Long distance riding just opens up that much more
time and opportunity for problems. Preparing for the worst is (sadly) the best
option. Consider policy options that you might want to add onto your basic
liability plan, so that you are fully protected. Things like custom parts and
equipment coverage, roadside assistance, medical payment coverage, uninsured
motorist coverage, and many others may be very worthwhile for endurance riders.
Stacy Holmes is a blogger and freelance writer
for www.motorcycleinsurance.com.
She enjoys writing and researching everything to do with motorcycles and
automotive trends. Stacy is particularly interested in engaging her readers in
the often mundane world of motorcycle insurance and money-saving tactics. You
can reach her in the comments below.
