Planning Your Motorcycle Touring Adventures
- roylove
- 13 hours ago
- 7 min read
Let’s Talk About Hitting the Open Road!
Man, there is just something magical about cruising down the highway on your bike, headed into the unknown! The wind whipping through your hair, or in my case, my bald head! I love that sweet rumble of the engine, and the endless road stretching out in front of me. Pure freedom, right? It’s why we ride! And those of us who ride the long, lonely, and hard on our ass, miles know that going on a long trip is something special. But hold up, before we kick back and soak in all those good vibes, we understand that a bit of planning goes a long way. After hitting the road across the US five times and tackling some epic long-distance rides through Central America, South America, and Europe, I’ve learned that the best motorcycle adventures are a mix of spontaneity and a bit of prep. So, let’s dive into how you can gear up for your next epic motorcycle tour with confidence and a whole lot of excitement!
Why Planning Your Motorcycle Touring Adventures Matters
You might be thinking, “Planning? Isn’t the whole point to ride and see where the road takes me?” Sure, spontaneity has its charm, but a bit of groundwork can save you from headaches, breakdowns, and missed opportunities. When I first started touring, I may have underestimated the importance of planning. I have never ended up stranded in the middle of nowhere with a flat tire. I have found myself hours from a hotel in the middle of the night, low on gas, not knowing where I was, and with no cell signal. Not fun. Fortunately, I’m still here to tell the tale! I have learned the hard way that a plan is the best defense against my own stupidity! As much as I sometimes want to hop on a bike and ride towards the horizon, I never do it without a plan.
Planning helps you:
Choose the best routes that match your skill level and interests.
Pack smart so you’re prepared but not overloaded.
Find accommodations or camping spots in advance.
Ensure your bike is ready for the journey.
Stay safe by knowing emergency contacts and local laws.
Think of it as setting the stage for your adventure. The better the setup, the more you can relax and enjoy the ride.
How to Choose Your Route and Destinations
Picking your route is like choosing the chapters of your story. Do you want twisty mountain roads, coastal highways, or rugged off-road trails? Each offers a different flavor of adventure.
Here’s how I approach it:
Research: Use maps, travel blogs, and forums to find routes that excite you. Websites dedicated to motorcycle touring adventures are gold mines for ideas.
Consider your skill level: If you’re new to off-road riding, maybe start with paved scenic routes before tackling dirt trails. Hard-packed county dirt roads are great places to practice for your off-road adventures. Taking an adventure course also helps a great deal!
Plan daily distances:
If you’re a beginner or have health concerns that prevent long rides, I recommend aiming for 150-250 miles per day. Personally, I prefer covering 300-600 miles, but I have some experience. Make sure to plan a distance that allows you to make progress while also giving you time for breaks and exploration. Sometimes, the road conditions might limit how far you can travel. Riding on US highways is quite different from navigating the mountains in Ecuador or Peru.
Identify must-see spots: Whether it’s a famous landmark, a hidden waterfall, or a quirky roadside diner, these stops make your trip memorable. Look for World Heritage Sites along your route!
Check road conditions and weather: Some routes may be closed seasonally or be challenging due to weather. Always double-check before you go. I encountered several closed scenic routes in the mountains during my November visit to Utah.
Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Don’t rush—savor the ride. And when you find a sweet spot, stop and enjoy it!
Essential Gear and Packing Tips for Motorcycle Touring
Packing for a motorcycle tour is an art form. You want to bring everything you need without turning your bike into a rolling storage unit. Overpacking can make your ride uncomfortable and affect handling. I did this on my trip to South America, and ended up leaving a lot of things behind. The end of my journey was much better, because I downsized!
Here’s my packing checklist:
Helmet and riding gear: Invest in quality gear that offers protection and comfort. Waterproof jackets and pants are lifesavers. Extra gloves and heated gear are essential when travelling across changing climates in the mountains.
Tool kit and spare parts: Basic tools, tire repair kits, and spare bulbs can get you out of minor jams. Any special tool for your particular bike? A spare chain, brake pads, an oil filter, and gaskets are always a good idea.
Navigation tools: GPS devices, maps, or smartphone apps with offline maps.
Camping gear (if you plan to camp): a lightweight tent, a sleeping bag, and cooking supplies.
Clothing: Pack layers for varying weather. Quick-dry fabrics are ideal.
Personal items: First-aid kit with a tourniquet, toiletries, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Soap, small towels, and a portable shaving kit are great!
Food and water: Snacks and hydration are crucial, especially in remote areas. I always carry a Monster or two to help me stay awake on the long rides.
Medicine: Can’t leave home without the pain pills, be it Motrin, Tylenol, Advil, or your preferred analgesic. And if you are traveling to high-altitude areas, make sure you prepare. The air up there is no friend to those of us who have spent our lives at sea level!
Pro tip: Use waterproof saddlebags or dry bags to keep your gear dry and dust-free. I learned this the hard way after many a downpour soaked my clothes and electronics during my first few long trips.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for the Journey
Your bike is your trusty steed, so treat it well before you hit the road. A well-maintained motorcycle reduces the risk of breakdowns and keeps you safe. You have to know your bike. If it doesn’t sound right, it probably isn’t. Know which dealerships can service your specific bike brand. In South America, there were three countries with dealers that could service my Pan America. Colombia, Chile, and Argentina. They are more than 1,000 miles apart. Yet, I always managed to find someone who could fix my bike in a bind.
Here’s what I always do before a tour:
Full service: Change oil, check brakes, inspect tires, and top off fluids.
Tire check: Look for wear and proper pressure. Consider tires suited for your route’s terrain.
Lights and signals: Ensure all lights work correctly. Carry extra fuses and wire cutters.
Chain and sprockets: Clean, lubricate, and check for wear. Carry your brush, cleaner, and lube with you. 500-600 miles can come up on you in some remote places.
Load test: Pack your gear and take a short ride to feel how the bike handles. The day I was leaving for South America, I dropped my bike a few hundred feet from my house and learned that very same day she would be a beast to pick up. Really made me think about how much I packed vs what I needed.
If you’re not confident doing this yourself, visit a trusted mechanic. It’s worth every penny.
Tips for Staying Safe and Enjoying the Ride
Safety is the foundation of any great adventure. Here are some tips I swear by:
Ride within your limits: Don’t push yourself too hard, especially on unfamiliar roads. Avoid nighttime riding when possible, especially in dark, remote areas you don’t know.
Stay visible: Wear bright gear and use your lights even during the day. Adding extra lights to the bike before your trip helps tremendously.
Take breaks: Rest stops keep you alert and let you enjoy the scenery. And drink some Monsters! OK, you don’t have to do that. I do like my energy drinks and coffee, though!
Stay hydrated and nourished: Dehydration can sneak up on you. I travel with a Camelbak or another hydration pack and use hydration pills or powder.
Have a communication plan: Let someone know your route and check in regularly. There are some great tracking apps these days. My wife and daughter are always following me on Google Maps and Apple Maps. GPS systems these days also let your family and friends track you.
Know local laws: Speed limits, helmet laws, and road rules vary by region. KPH is not the same as MPH! Switch your bike’s computer as soon as you enter a country that doesn’t follow the US system! Look for those signs that tell you when the road changes direction (Panama), when your motorcycle is prohibited from entering a tunnel (Colombia), and when your plate number is not allowed to park on the street (Pico y Pala in Peru). When in Rome, do as the Romans do! Take a translator app, or learn to read the signs in the language of the country you are visiting!
And hey, don’t forget to have fun! Laugh at the unexpected, embrace the detours, and soak in every moment.
Making the Most of Your Adventure Motorcycle Tours
Planning is just the beginning. Once you’re on the road, it’s about embracing the experience. I’ve found that the best memories come from the people you meet, the small towns you stumble upon, and the quiet moments watching sunsets from your bike.
If you want to connect with fellow riders and get inspired, check out online communities for adventure motorcycle tours. Sharing stories and tips makes the journey even richer.
So, are you ready to start planning your next motorcycle touring adventure? Pack your bags, tune your bike, and let the road be your guide. The world is waiting, and your story is just beginning.
Happy riding!
Comments