Have you ever thought about getting on your bike and taking a scenic road trip? Well, you’re not alone. Whether you want a break from reality or you’re looking to reach a specific destination, the chance to hit the open road on your motorcycle is a dream vacation for many. One popular destination for bikers is the ocean.
Whether it is your first road trip or you’re a seasoned rider, there are certain steps you’ll want to take.
Choose your route
The first thing you’ll want to establish is what route you want to take and where you want to end up. Not all beaches are made equal:). Check for any points of interest on the way that don’t require a huge detour and turn them into stops. While spending some time on the main highway is unavoidable, you might want to take some scenic detours. Maybe you want to drive through mountains or wooded areas. Spending hours on the highway on a motorcycle is miserable. Taking a scenic route can help make the trip go more quickly and is actually part of what riding a motorbike is all about!
Get needed maintenance
Before your trip, you’re going to want to make sure that your motorcycle is in good condition. You don’t want to be miles away from an auto-center and run into a problem! Before your trip, make sure to visit your local mechanic to make sure that your motorcycle’s tires are still good and that there aren’t any mechanical concerns. This includes checking the oil, checking air filters, adjusting the throttle, and more. Routine maintenance before the trip can help prevent an accident.
Consider what you want to take
Decide what items you want to bring. Most bikers pack a change of clothes and a tool kit, but occasionally you might want to bring more. For example, if you’re planning on camping during your road trip, you’ll need a tent. Or if you want to try some sports when you get to the ocean, you will need the proper equipment. People that ride bikes often like to jet ski. If this sounds like fun to you and you don’t know where to start, try jetskitips.com.
Check the weather
Nothing is worse than having to provide cover from the rain while on the highway. Or, even worse, not being able to find cover and having to ride in the rain. While weather can be hard to predict, start checking the weather several days in advance of your trip. If it seems like any heavy storms might hinder your trip, consider rescheduling your trip for another day. You should also pack some rain gear, in the event of an unwanted rainstorm. A good waterproof motorbike backpack is also a life saver if you get caught in the rain. At least having dry clothes to change into when you stop won’t be a problem.
Dress appropriately
If you’re going to spend hours on your motorcycle, you’re going to want to be dressed appropriately. Wear a pair of pants and several layers. Even if the day is supposed to be a hot one, wearing a jacket of durable material is advisable in the event of an accident (so that your skin doesn’t come in direct contact with the road). You’ll also want to wear boots, an appropriate helmet, and gloves. Don’t forget to find a way to make yourself visible to cars.
Find nice roadside spots
During your trip, you’re going to want to take routine stops where you can stop and stretch. Long distances on a motorcycle can cause your muscles to grow stiff and achy. Plus, it is a good idea to give your ears a break from the roar of the motor. Find places where you can pull over, stretch, and take a small break. While you could do this anywhere, you could always make your trip a little more special by choosing a scenic location to enjoy.
Stay hydrated
If you’re spending long hours in the sun on a motorcycle, it is easy to get dehydrated, especially if you’re wearing appropriate gear. If you relieve yourself and your urine is dark yellow, you’re in danger of dehydration. Dehydration can cause you to feel dizzy and become confused; neither of which you want to happen while you’re riding. Whenever you take a break, make sure that you’re drinking water. Some bikers even purchase a water bladder that attaches to their bike, so that they can rehydrate while they ride.