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The author's bike, in violation of Point #2
Mistakes made. Lessons learned. Results published. Now you have no excuses.
I can ride from LA to NY in... 3 days. Touring is expensive in both time and money, so it's easy to be too ambitious about the time required to get from Point A to G. You ride for the experiences, memories, and sensations, so be sure to allow some time for those, too. Don't push your itinerary too hard.
Did you pack my tux? Pack clothes, then cut what you packed by 50%. Do laundry on the road or if it suits you, sneak an extra day or two from those socks. Less stuff makes your bike more fun to ride and your trip a lot easier.
Rain gear? But it's summer? Fill your now-half empty bags with good rain gear. Always remember this simple rule: If you bring rain gear it won't rain. Don't, and it will pour like a fire hose. You've been warned.
Nah, I'll replace the tires (or chain or oil or brake pads) when I get back home. You'll ride better -- and sleep better at night -- if you replace anything on your bike that's nearing the end of its life, before you leave.
Sure I'm tired, but our reservation is 150 miles down the road. If you can avoid it, don't make reservations for motels or campgrounds. (Note: don't try this in popular tourist areas.) Target a few possible destinations for appropriate facilities, then ride as much, as little, or in any direction, you choose. Don't let your trip be dictated by the AAA Lodging Guide.
Bonus mistake: Dammit, this is what we planned so this is what we're going to do! After 3,900 miles my 5,000 mile tour came to an abrupt end with a family medical emergency back home. Everybody is fine, but it's an important reminder that plans can change suddenly. Life, like touring, is a journey. Go with the flow.
Other articles in this series:
Rating summer motorcycle gear
Motorcycling Jackson Hole south through the Rockies
US 12: West's best motorcycle road?
When brakes break
5,000 mile ride starts tomorrow
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Comments
Good advice Phil. Unfortunately, I have to say that I learned a few of your tips the hard way!
Very good. Every motorcycle vacationer should read your article before hitting the road.
Good stuff Phil. Yes, you do not want to plan to cover too much distance each day. If you're going to enjoy yourself 300 miles should be about your maximum. And 200 to 250 is even better.
Do travel light. That's why God invented laundromats.
Always carry rain gear and don't buy the cheap stuff. If you're not spending at least $100 you're not going to be happy with the crap you end up with.
With tires especially, it's just not worth the risk to get that last bit of mileage out of them.
Not having reservations is the fun way to travel but when you're with eight other guys sometimes you must have reservations.
When I saw the title of your article, I wondered if I'd agree with your Top 5 list. It is. My packing list is close to yours: 3 shirts, an extra pair of jeans, and thongs take up less room (for women:-). On my solo cross-country trip I only made one reservation: a campground in Rapid City the week before Sturgis. That day was a killer. Pushed 450 miles in 112 degree heat. Your bonus mistake hits home with regards to my "Daytona Trip" in February. I had raised money for, and planned to ride in, Harley's women's MDA ride, which was happening on my birthday. I hadn't planned on 40 degree temps and 45 MPH winds across Texas and snow in the Gulf states. We got to Dallas a day late and tried to figure out how we could make Daytona in time. I finally said that the trip had ceased being fun, and we went to San Antonio, Big Bend and Carlsbad Caverns instead. MDA still got their money, and we had a nice trip. Also, taking rain gear is Murphy's law in reverse. Prepare and it won't happen.
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