Tips For A More Comfortable Motorcycle Ride

Most of us love to ride our motorcycles for as long and as frequently as possible. This usually comes to an end only when your comfort is greatly compromised. Ending up with sore joints or achy limbs can be a real downer and might send you home when you had more planned. Below we’ve listed some ideas that may make your bike rides more comfortable, so you can stay on the road longer. For all your motorcycle needs, visit Cycles of Jacksonville and have a chat with one of our helpful staff. We welcome all our clients from Orlando and St Augustine!

Cruise Control

When you go out for long rides in your car, the cruise control feature can be a real lifesaver. Engage it to give your limbs a break during long trips. This feature is equally helpful on your motorcycle. When you have to sit in the same position for a long time, it can become uncomfortable. Cruise control offers a much-needed break without compromising your ability to ride safely. You may even find that you end up needing to take fewer breaks!

The cruise control feature is more popular with car owners than bike owners, but it is a standard feature on most touring motorcycle models so you can look for a model with it built in already. If you already have a bike, you can get an aftermarket accessory that provides cruise control ability. You'll be amazed at what a lifesaver it'll be for your wrists on long rides.

Seat Pad Material

Standard motorcycle seats can have the cheapest filling because manufacturers like to save on manufacturing costs. These are okay for a while but usually can’t stand the test of time.  Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there to make sitting down for long periods of time easier.

For seat options, you can look at options like inflatable cushions, which equalize the forces over the weight-bearing areas, using the same technology as wheelchairs cushions. Another option is polymer cushioning, which is made of the same materials as hospital beds that prevent sores. Others use cozy materials like sheepskin covers. With all the options available, it's easy to find a more comfortable seat solution that matches your unique needs.

Windshield

Riding for long hours can cause wind fatigue, as your body keeps taking on the constant beating of the wind. To help boost your endurance levels, simply install a windshield on your motorcycle. This also helps block other discomforts like rain, snow, flying debris, and bugs.

Remember that installing a permanent windshield can have disadvantages, which is why many riders choose detachable windshields to get the best of both worlds. You can easily remove it when you don’t want it. Being able to remove a windshield makes for easier storage and transportation of your motorcycle.

Hydration Pack

Riding a motorcycle is a physically-demanding activity and, just like with any other workout, you need to stay hydrated. When you get dehydrated during a ride, not only does it increase your discomfort, you can get side effects like headaches. It can be a pain to keep pulling over, removing your gloves and helmet and taking out a water bottle to sip from. Instead, use a hands-free hydration pack. It'll keep you hydrated and keep those annoying (sometimes dangerous) symptoms at bay.

Breaks

Your motorcycle sure can go for hours, but your body simply can’t. Take preventative breaks to stop fatigue and soreness from taking over. If you wait till you’re exhausted to take a break, the trip will take a bigger toll on you than necessary. When you take breaks, you can use the time to freshen up, have snacks, drink water and even do some light stretches that’ll prevent you from getting sore.

We hope you’ll use these tips to improve your future rides! For all your motorcycle needs, come to Cycles of Jacksonville and take a tour of our vast inventory. Our staff is always ready to help you select the right vehicle for you.