Important Tips for Your First Motorcycle Road Trip

Almost every avid motorcycle rider enjoys the sense of freedom that long-distance trips bring. Some do it very often, while others have it on their bucket list to do it once in their lifetime. That said, if you are setting out on a long-distance adventure on your motorcycle, learning a few helpful tips will make your riding experience much more enjoyable and easier.

Keep reading to learn important tips when going on a motorcycle road trip, and if you're looking for a reliable and top-performing motorcycle, come select your model at Cycles of Jacksonville. We carry bikes from your favorite brands at competitive prices. All riders from Jacksonville, FL, are welcome to visit us, as well as riders from Orlando and St. Augustine.

Choosing a Motorcycle

First things first, if you are planning to go on a long motorcycle road trip, you should choose your bike wisely. Make sure your motorcycle is comfortable enough to carry you through hours of riding. Of course, you can stop for rest breaks now and then, but not every half an hour or less. Choose a bike that you can handle easily which offers good engine performance. If you already own a motorcycle, you can always make a few modifications to improve its comfort level.

What to Bring Along

Motorcycles don't have a lot of storage space. Therefore, you’ll want to pack only the necessities when traveling. This includes food, water, and clothing. Remember that there will be plenty of stores and restaurants along the way where you can buy fresh and healthy meals. Some motorcycles come with saddlebags, which is a great advantage. However, you can always buy your own aftermarket storage option and install it on your motorcycle if needed. There also are other great bag ideas, such as tail bags and tank bags. 

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if you’ll be riding under the hot sun. If you fail to do so, you run the risk of losing consciousness while riding, which can lead to a severe accident. If your concern is stopping too much for water breaks, you can invest in a hydration pack. A hydration pack keeps your water cool and you can drink it from a long tube without having to stop.

Take Rest Breaks

Remember that you are on a journey and you’ll want to enjoy every minute of it. Don’t get overwhelmed by wanting to reach your destination as soon as possible. You can take scheduled rest breaks to eat a snack and to stretch your legs. Sitting on a bike for hours without getting up can cause saddle sores. During your breaks, you can inspect your motorcycle to make sure it is fit to continue riding. Don’t overdo it, though. Taking too many rest breaks will lengthen your trip and make you arrive later than you might like.

We hope these were helpful tips to you. For more motorcycle traveling information or advice from the experts, stop by Cycles of Jacksonville in Jacksonville, FL. Our friendly staff is also here to help you find the perfect motorcycle according to your riding style and budget. We also proudly serve those from Orlando and St. Augustine.