Listed below you’ll find the golden rules of safety when it comes to riding your bike for long distances, no matter the state or the weather.
1. Decide on the best time to start your journey
As a general rule, you can ride your bike from late spring to late fall almost anywhere in the United States. However, if you plan on riding around California or Florida, you can enjoy warm weather all year-round, without worrying about snow, heavy protective gear, low temperatures, and snow.We do suggest to plan your trip according to the weather from the states you will be crossing to avoid unwanted surprises and potentially dangerous situations. Therefore, the best time to start your journey across the country would be from May to late September.
Nevertheless, you should be prepared for all types of weather, especially if you plan on traveling in the fall. Make sure to also include in your luggage a set of warm clothes, a thicker jacket, and some heavy-duty boots to withstand rain, mud, and even snow.
2. Bring the proper protective gear
Protective gear is mandatory even when riding your motorcycle around the block. Thus, you shouldn’t even think about planning a trip without being fully equipped for all weather conditions and seasons.A leather, waterproof jacket, a pair of good motorbike pants or jeans, a thick helmet, and some high-quality leather gloves are the starter pack for every bike enthusiast. And, if you’re thinking about adding a cool pair of leather boots, you’ll find a huge list of available products just one click away.
What you wear under your protective gear is also important, so make sure to stack on as many t-shirts as possible for the summertime, as well as a leather vest for those low-speed sunset rides (think Sons of Anarchy style), a pair of night driving goggles, and a few sweaters and hoodies for the colder mornings.
3. Inspect your bike
You should never hit the road without a proper bike inspection, even if your name is Jack. Jokes aside, check the oil, the brakes, the paint, and the engine of your motorcycle before getting on the saddle. It would be best to ask for a professional mechanic to take a look at your vehicle to make sure all parts are in order and ready for a long journey. Don’t forget to also check for the air pressure in your tires and air filter. And, even though you don’t plan on riding in the wintertime, you should also pack a pair of tire chains for exceptional situations.
4. Rest regularly
If you want to make the most out of your motorbike trip, you need to learn to enjoy the landscapes and the fresh air you breathe. Why rush toward your destination when you can savor every minute spent on the highway, watching the sunset, and feeling the wind blowing in your hair?In order to do all that, you shouldn’t ride for more than 4-5 hours a day, with a break every 1.5-2 hours. We suggest you plan your trip so that you do most of the riding during the daylight to avoid wearing night gear or feeling too tired.
Keep in mind that safety always comes first, so never ride without getting enough rest or if you drank the night before.
