Motorcycle road trips are a great way to see the country and experience the open road. However, it’s important to plan your trip carefully to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. Here are some tips on how to plan a motorcycle road trip, as well as a list of essential gear and resources:
Planning Your Route
- Choose a destination: Where do you want to go? What sights and attractions do you want to see? Consider your interests and budget when choosing a destination.
- Map out your route: Once you have a destination in mind, map out your route. There are many different tools and apps that can help you do this, such as Google Maps, Roadtrippers, and Scenic Byways.
- Plan your stops: When planning your route, be sure to factor in rest stops, fuel stops, and sightseeing stops. Don’t try to cram too much into one day.
- Book your accommodations: If you’re planning on staying overnight, be sure to book your accommodations in advance. This is especially important if you’re traveling during peak season.
Essential Gear
- Motorcycle: Make sure your motorcycle is in good condition before you start your trip. Get a tune-up and change the oil if needed.
- Safety gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing when riding your motorcycle.
- Tools and spare parts: It’s a good idea to bring a basic tool kit and some spare parts in case of a breakdown.
- Clothing and camping gear: If you’re planning on camping on your trip, be sure to pack all of the necessary gear, such as a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies.
Resources
- Road trip planning websites and apps: There are many websites and apps that can help you plan your motorcycle road trips. Some popular options include Roadtrippers, Scenic Byways, and Google Maps.
- Motorcycle camping gear retailers: If you need to purchase motorcycle camping gear, there are many retailers that sell this type of equipment online and in stores.
- Motorcycle travel guides: There are many motorcycle travel guides available that can provide you with information on scenic routes, attractions, and accommodations.
Road Trip Planning Tools and Apps
- Roadtrippers: Roadtrippers is a popular website and app that allows you to plan and share road trips. You can use Roadtrippers to find scenic routes, attractions, and accommodations.
- Scenic Byways: The Scenic Byways website provides information on scenic byways across the United States. You can use the website to find scenic routes, attractions, and maps.
- Google Maps: Google Maps is a free website and app that can be used to plan and navigate road trips. You can use Google Maps to find directions, traffic conditions, and businesses.
Motorcycle Camping Gear
- Tent: A tent is essential for motorcycle camping. Look for a tent that is lightweight and easy to set up.
- Sleeping bag: A sleeping bag is another essential for motorcycle camping. Look for a sleeping bag that is warm and comfortable.
- Cooking supplies: If you’re planning on cooking on your trip, be sure to pack the necessary cooking supplies, such as a stove, pots, and pans.
- Other essential camping gear: Other essential camping gear includes a headlamp, a first-aid kit, and insect repellent.
Maps and Travel Guides for Scenic Routes
- Butler Motorcycle Maps: Butler Motorcycle Maps are a popular series of maps that are specifically designed for motorcyclists. The maps show scenic routes, attractions, and motorcycle-friendly accommodations.
- Rand McNally Motorcycle Road Atlas: The Rand McNally Motorcycle Road Atlas is another popular resource for motorcycle riders. The atlas includes maps of all 50 states, as well as information on scenic routes, attractions, and motorcycle-friendly accommodations.
- National Geographic Motorcycle Atlas of the United States and Canada: The National Geographic Motorcycle Atlas of the United States and Canada is a comprehensive atlas that includes maps of all 50 states and Canada. The atlas also includes information on scenic routes, attractions, and motorcycle-friendly accommodations.
Conclusion
Planning motorcycle road trips can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to do your research and be prepared. By following the tips above, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
