By Sturgis Riders News Blog
Being well prepared for a motorcycle trip can turn a bad trip good and a good trip great. But learning all the tips and tricks to save time, stay organized and have the most fun on the road often takes years of trial and error to figure out. Luckily you don’t have to wait years to have these “aha moments.” Revolutionize the way you ride by checking out these 15 insider motorcycle touring tips from staffers at the American Motorcyclist Association.
1. Eat at weird times.
Everyone and their dog eats around 8 a.m., noon and 6 p.m. So if you want to get in and out of restaurants quickly, plan ahead so you’re not hungry at those times.
2. Carry a spare key.
Hide your spare somewhere on your bike using a zip-tie or duct tape, or trade keys with a traveling companion
3. Keep your stuff dry in saddlebags by using trash compactor bags.
These DIY waterproof barriers are thicker and more durable than the standard garbage bags a lot of bikers use.
4. Set yourself up for a quick getaway.
If you’re nearing the end of your riding day, you can set yourself up for a quick getaway in the morning by riding to the far side of the next city you reach before stopping. This will eliminate time lost in urban traffic the next morning.
5. Carry a backpack hydration system.
Take a tip from off-road riders. This must for arid weather lets you easily drink while you ride. For more gear suggestions check out the Sturgis Rider News article 10 Essential Pieces of Gear You Shouldn’t Ride Without.
6. Use the envelope system to stay organized.
Going on a long, complex trip? Before you leave, prepare one envelope for each day on the road. Mark the outside of each envelope with dates and locations, then stuff them with things like hotel reservation info and lists of things you’d like to see. Instead of juggling your entire stack of literature to find the information you’re looking for, you can just open up that day’s envelope.
Read More: 15 Tips That’ll Transform the Way You Travel When Motorcycling
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Very Interesting!
Did a 3 day ride, Ga. to Az.solo best ride eva, til I got to Texas, big arse state. met another rider with petrol info. NP on the way back.
Travel hwy 101
Good idea
Emergency contacts, blood group, on dog tag around your neck
Hotel? Reservations? huh? ;P
Put a contact on your phone..ICE (in case emergency) with a relevant number
thanks a lot.
Sounds like something I'd like to know
Reference the photo under tip #2 "Carry a spare key" Does anyone know where I can get the magnetic key holder he is holding? Great idea to carry a spare key.