Ride the Open Road: What to Keep in Mind When Going on a Motorcycle Road Trip

Taking a road trip on a motorcycle is a fantastic way to experience the world. But before you hit the open road, make sure you know how to stay safe and comfortable on your trip. Here are some ways to do that.

Be Alert

Drivers don’t always see motorcycles on the road. Their eyes either skip over motorcycles in favor of more obvious, larger vehicles or they fail to check their blind spots. This can cause major accidents on the road. It’s important to be aware and alert of those around you in order to avoid common causes of motorcycle accidents . Make sure to leave plenty of room between yourself and cars. Watch for open car doors that can cause major problems if you ride into them. Don’t ride down the middle of two lanes since cars will likely not see you if they start to change lanes. In addition, look out for animals on the road or any large potholes that will throw your bike off course.

Dress Properly

You may feel tempted to pack light when taking a road trip on a motorcycle. That’s not a bad idea, but you need to make sure you have all the essentials. Dressing properly can help improve the overall experience of your trip. You always need to wear your helmet to protect your head in case of injury. Riding gloves and a leather or kevlar jacket are also wise to have. Even if the temperature is comfortable outside, it will feel cooler when you are moving on the motorcycle. Pants and over-the-ankle boots are also the chosen attire of riders because they can protect in case of a wreck. Having coverage on your lower body can limit the amount of road rash or other damage you experience if you fall.

Protect Your Skin

No matter the season, you need sun protection when you’re riding a motorcycle . Make sure your face is protected by applying sunscreen frequently and put sunscreen on any other part of your body that is exposed. Wind can cause your face to dry out, especially when it’s cold. This is why some people choose to wear face masks.

Keep Hydrated

When you’re out riding, you are exposed to the elements. A lot of time can go by before you realize you haven’t had any water. This can cause dehydration, and the effects of dehydration can lead to tragedy when you’re riding a motorcycle. Your mental and physical abilities are compromised when you aren’t consuming enough water. To stay hydrated, you can invest in a wearable hydration pack. This allows you to grab a drink when you stop at a stoplight, and it makes it easy to access water while you’re on the road. If you don’t carry a hydration pack, you’ll need to take frequent rest stops to stay hydrated.

Hitting the open road on a motorcycle is a memorable experience, but it’s important to be prepared for any situation. Make sure to keep these important tips in mind for a great trip.

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