Dreaming of a Cross-Country Motorcycle Trip? Do These Things First
Whether you’re looking to take a vacation or test out your new ride, taking a cross-country motorcycle trip can help you clear your mind and enjoy the open road. Before embarking on your cross-country adventure, make sure to properly prepare with these tips.
Get ready to ride
If you’re not sure how to ride without wiping out, seek out local motorcycle education classes to help you learn the basics. On the other hand, if you have a license but no bike, consider renting a motorcycle from a rental service in your area.
It’s also crucial to get your bike inspected by a local mechanic. Don’t skip out on making the necessary repairs to your bike, since you don’t want to break down in the middle of nowhere later on.
In addition, ask your mechanic for recommendations on batteries for motorcycles. You’re going to need a powerful, maintenance-free, long-lasting battery that can keep your bike going throughout your adventure.
Research your route
Next, you should start planning and researching your cross-country trip. Decide whether you want to avoid any states or if you want to make any specific pit stops along the way.
It’s also important to set a budget for your trip since you’ll likely be eating out for each meal and staying at hotels. If you have friends you can stay with, contact them beforehand and make sure they’re cool with couch surfing. If you’re planning to stay in hotels, book rooms in advance to save money.
If you’re planning to map out a route, make sure to take a reliable GPS along with you. Since smartphones provide reliable GPS apps, getting your phone repaired before the trip can go a long way. If you need an iPhone 6 plus screen replacement or a new charger, make sure your phone is ready to go by the time you leave.
Many bikers decide to skip the interstate and take backroads during cross-country trips. Traveling from east to west is also recommended, as you’ll be able to clear your mind as you move from the populated east coast to the open roads of the west.
Depending on the kind of trip you want to take, you might just decide to wing it. In this case, consider checking the Google Maps feature called “avoid highways”.
Pack your gear
Along with your phone, charger, and a good playlist, you’ll also want to pack a small first aid kit and a bike tool kit. If you plan to stop at a friend’s house along the way, consider shipping yourself supplies beforehand so they’re waiting for you when you arrive. Shipping yourself supplies will eliminate the need to carry extra supplies throughout your entire trip.
Bring along some water bottles to ensure that you stay hydrated, especially if you’re traveling during the summer months. Additionally, snacks like beef jerky, nuts, and granola bars are portable and will help keep you going throughout the day.
Finally, before embarking on your journey, break in any new gear. Ensuring that your helmet isn’t too heavy and that your new gloves fit well will save you from aches and pains during your trip.
No matter how you plan your trip, take the time to appreciate every second of it. Talk to locals to learn more about each town’s culture and set aside time to try new foods and activities. Using social media can also help you make connections in different towns that you visit. All of these things can help your cross-country motorcycle trip go that much more smoothly.
