Tuesday, June 28, 2011

How to Drive Across the Country on a Motorcycle

Whether you are planning to take off into the sunset on your own, or with a partner or group, driving across the country on your motorcycle can be an exciting experience that you will never forget. The chance to feel the open road ahead of you, while taking in the many interesting cultures of the country is something that many people dream of, but few actually do. If you have decided to make this exciting journey, there are a number of things to keep in mind.

First and foremost, before you embark on your trip, everything needs to be planned out down to the last detail. While it may be easy to lose yourself in the Easy Rider fantasy of simply jumping on your bike and riding out on the highway, the reality is that doing so would be very dangerous. Without proper planning, your trip could be cut short, or worse, you could be stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Depending on what route you are planning to take, as well as what season it will be during your trip, proper supplies will be needed. Questions you need to ask yourself; what will the climate and terrain be like in the various states you'll be passing through? Do I have the proper attire to handle weather changes? It is important to know enough about the regions you will be passing through in order to plan.

Next, make sure you have supplies. Some of the common items you will want to carry would be a flashlight, a cigarette lighter, ear plugs, toothpaste, toothbrush, and other toiletries, as well as a small bottle of glass cleaner. It would also be a great idea to carry a small set of tools. Wrenches, ratchets, and screwdrivers that match the parts on your bike are essential in the event of a breakdown. Finally, a first aid kit with essential supplies should be carried in the event of an emergency.

In terms of navigation, it would be a good idea to get a GPS tool. Using GPS, you can not only plan out your trip, but with more advanced GPS systems, you can find local attractions along the way, as well as restaurants and hotels, all while being able to be guided back onto your route. It would also be a great idea to have copies of maps of the various states you will be riding through. While a GPS tool is very handy, it isn't foolproof and if it goes down, maps will be your best friend.

Finally, in your planning, you must tell someone where you are going. Even if you are taking this trip with other people, it is imperative that people know where you will be. It is also a good idea to have a cell phone to use to contact a predetermined person once a day. Find a friend or family member and make sure they know the route you will be taking, when you expect to arrive at each destination, and when you will be checking in.

Once you have everything planned out, hit the road. Keep in mind that if you are taking this trip on your own, you are going to have a lot of time to think, so use that time to clear your head and let any stress go. You may want to bring along a digital camera with spare batteries and memory cards to document the cool parts of your trip. If you are going to be camping along the way, make sure that you have the proper protective gear for any electronics in case of bad weather.

Taking a trip across the country on your motorcycle is guaranteed to be one of the most memorable and enlightening things you will ever do. With proper planning and supplies, you are sure to enjoy every second of the ride. Riding across the country will give you the chance to experience the many and varied cultures while giving you many great stories to tell for years to come.

Nothing compares to the experience of a long distance trip on a Harley Davidson motorcycle. However, being prepared such as having the proper gear and service upkeep on your bike is important. Wildcat Harley Davidson serving Lexington, London, Hazard, Richmond, Berea and Somerset has the gear and service you need prior to your trip.


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