Long-Distance Motorcycle Riding – Health and Safety Considerations
Long distance motorcycle riding provides an unforgettable experience that many riders appreciate. But it requires taking a different approach than shorter rides to successfully enjoy it.
Consider these essential tips to make your next long-distance ride safe and enjoyable:
Wear the Right Gear
Traveling long distances requires the use of special gear, and selecting appropriate apparel will make your ride both more enjoyable and safe. A quality helmet, gloves, boots and leather pants should provide ample protection from the elements; additionally, consider investing in a full-face helmet which reduces risks of serious head injury.
Important equipment includes a bungee cord or netting to secure your motorcycle, first aid kits, water, hidden spare keys from thieves, basic tools, emergency contact info maps and covers for their bike as well as bike covers. Some riders may choose to take along camping supplies along with them on their journeys.
Prior to setting out on any long-distance ride, it is highly advised that you conduct a complete inspection of your motorcycle. A longer trip places extra stress on any parts needing replacement; so if any are identified quickly it is wise to address them as soon as possible. Furthermore, have your suspension and tire pressure checked regularly as well.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated when riding long distance motorcycles is crucial to safety. Dehydration will significantly decrease concentration and response speed, potentially leading to heat stroke which could prove fatal without immediate treatment.
At the start of each ride, it is best to drink at least two large glasses of water to help hydrate your body and avoid needing pee breaks early on, which could disrupt focus or lead to overhydration.
As you travel, keep track of how much water you consume and the frequency with which you need to stop for pee. If your thirst increases significantly or urine turns dark yellow, that could be a telltale sign of dehydration; should this result in control issues with your motorbike, it would be prudent to seek medical help immediately.
Be Mindful of Traffic
Long distance rides can become tedious, so you should take extra care not to become disengaged from the task at hand and lose focus. Otherwise, it can be easy to miss that truck which could cut you off or an intersection where you must turn.
Motorcycle riders may not be as visible, so make sure your headlight is working and that your clothing stands out against its surroundings. Consider adding reflective strips or decals to both your bike and clothing for increased visibility at night. This increases the odds that other motorists will notice you.
Plan your journey well in advance to ensure there will be plenty of places to stop for fuel, food, stretching and restroom breaks. Knowing how far your full tank can travel will also help determine how many stops should be scheduled each day to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.
Keep Your Passengers Safe
If you plan to bring along passengers for long rides, they should be equipped with appropriate gear such as helmets (Kansas and Missouri law require all riders to wear one). Passengers also must understand how they should position themselves when the bike makes turns so that their position doesn’t throw off its balance.
Passengers must keep both feet on the passenger foot pegs at all times, even when stopped, in order to maintain balance on the motorcycle and prevent it from lurching forward unexpectedly. Passengers should also be able to communicate with their rider through hand signals or shoulder taps.
Riding with someone or a group who have different riding styles can cause tension and arguments during long trips, so make sure your friends know which type of riders each of you is and where your preferred breaks should be taken.