Want to live your Easy Rider dream for real? A motorcycle road trip is a great way to see more of the world with the win in your hair and the open road, and all of its possibilities, laying ahead of you. But, before you mount your bike and roar off, there’s a few things you should do…
1. Plan (a Little) But Don’t Overdo It
First things first: road trips, especially on a motorcycle, are all about spontaneity. If you plan every twist and turn of your journey down to the last mile marker, you might miss out on the magic of the open road. So, yes, do figure out a general route, book some lodging if you’re not a fan of sleeping in a ditch (highly recommended), and research key gas stops if you’re venturing into remote areas. But don’t stress about every minor detail. The joy is in the ride—and in the random roadside diner you stumble upon that serves the best milkshakes known to man.
2. Pack Like a Pro (or At Least Close to It)
Motorcycles don’t come with spacious walk-in closets disguised as trunks, which means you have to be strategic. We’re talking real-life Tetris here, folks. Bring only the essentials: weather-appropriate gear, a sturdy pair of jeans, a change of clothes or two, some basic toiletries, and a toolkit in case something rattles loose (which it inevitably will). As for footwear, choose something you can walk in comfortably, because nobody wants to hobble around after 200 miles with boots that feel like foot prisons. Trust me, you don’t need eight pairs of socks. Pick a few good pairs that can handle the sweat and the dust. Priorities, right?
3. Gear Up for Glory (and Safety)
That “wind in your hair” feeling is romantic until a rock flies up and tests the aerodynamics of your forehead. Invest in a quality helmet, preferably a full-face style for maximum bug-deflection when you travel. Next, snag a sturdy jacket designed for riding—most come with built-in armor to protect those elbows and shoulders. Gloves? Non-negotiable if you value your palms. And while you’re at it, do yourself a favor and wear actual motorcycle pants. Yes, jeans look cool, but specialized riding pants look cool and keep your skin intact in a slide. You can’t put a price on that (well, you can, but it’s usually covered by health insurance).
4. Get to Know Your Bike (Intimately, but Not Weirdly)
Before you trust your life to this two-wheeled wonder, make sure you’re at least on a first-name basis. Know how to check tire pressure, oil levels, brake fluid, and the chain tension. Nothing kills a road trip vibe faster than hearing a terrifying metal-on-metal screech at 70 mph, followed by the sinking realization that you have no idea how to fix it. Watch a few YouTube tutorials, or get a friend to walk you through the basics. It’s worth the time, and it could save you from an unexpected roadside meltdown—both mechanical and mental.
5. Mind the Pace and Enjoy the View
You’re not in a high-speed chase. You’re on a road trip, remember? So, dial back the throttle and soak it all in. Take breaks often. Stretch those legs, snap some photos, strike up a conversation with the friendly folks at the gas station. Part of the allure of a motorcycle road trip is connecting with people and places you’d normally zoom right past in a car. Be curious, explore side roads, and don’t be afraid to deviate from your route if you see an intriguing sign (like “World’s Largest Ball of Yarn”). Because let’s face it, that’s the kind of detour that makes memories—and hilarious Instagram content.
6. Watch Out for Those Four-Wheeled Boxes
Cars and trucks don’t always see you. Shocking, right? Defensive driving is key when you’re on two wheels. Assume the driver next to you is checking texts, changing the radio, or daydreaming about tacos. Position yourself in their mirrors, use turn signals religiously, and be prepared to brake quickly if your spidey-sense tingles. Also, watch out for road hazards like gravel, potholes, and leftover tread from blown-out tires. A minor bump for a car can be a major disruption for a motorcycle. You don’t want to go flying off into a field that you thought was a comfy patch of grass.
7. Have a Contingency Plan (aka, Be an Adult for a Minute)
Even with the best precautions, Mother Nature and Murphy’s Law occasionally collaborate to rain on your parade—sometimes literally. If you do find yourself in a pickle (or a puddle), stay calm, call for help, and get the situation sorted. In the event of a more significant incident, keep in mind that an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer for riders can be a lifesaver if you need legal assistance. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but having that option in your back pocket is a whole lot better than scrambling to figure out your options after the fact.
Time to hit the road?