This is every mistake I made and what I learned on my first motorcycle road trip. Over 1400 miles in 5 days taught me a lot about what I need on my motorcycle, the way I pack, the gear I need and a lot more.
As someone who rides coast to coast every few years (Canada) I've learned many tricks for long distance riding but the #1 thing I tell people is to stretch out your gas stops! Gas and go is the quickest way to shorten time you can spend in the seat, if you want to be able to do 600-900 km day after day weeks on end this is a must... I like to take at minimum 15 minutes at every gas stop, same for bathroom stops... 20 minutes is even better. Walk around, do some deep stretching, drink water or electrolytes, give your body some time to settle. Next year I'm going on a 12+ week road trip accros Canada including Newfoundland, Digby Wharf Rat Rally in Nova Scotia and Friday the 13th Port Dover Ontario in Sept before heading home to BC.
Yes, in a car its the same principle. People don't realize how your body can recharge if you just take a little bit more time to allow it to gumby itself back into a normal physical state after sitting for so long. Use gas time to your advantage. You shouldn't be riding more than 150 miles wo a stop and stretch. It's not a race.
I'm heading out to St. John's from Edmonton in two weeks. We'll be pushing pretty hard with some long days. I know I'll be tempted to keep stops short, but taking a stretch and a walk is great advice.
Nice video! I purchased my first motorcycle, two years ago in 2021, when I turned 65. A Yamaha V-Star, 250. I rode that little motorcycle over 18,000 miles during that first year. I live in Nebraska and rode to the Pacific coast in Oregon, the Atlantic coast in Florida, and from the upper peninsula of Michigan, through Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and back over the mountains of Colorado. I actually crossed the Rockies three times on different trips. I really didn’t think it was that big of a deal, but I had done a lot of long distance, bicycle riding during my life. Congestive heart failure makes a motorcycle work better for me now. A few key things. Don’t wear anything cotton. No cotton blue jeans. No cotton underwear. No cotton anything! Make sure the rain gear you select keeps the water out of your boots. Your rain pants need to cover the top of your boots even when you’re seated on the motorcycle! Your socks need to be wool or synthetic because water will still get in, but your feet will stay comfortable. Even in summer, I wear wool socks. My layers are, synthetic or wool long underwear, an extra insulating layer for my torso, light weight wind resistant pants and top that fits under the protective gear, synthetic mesh protective gear, and then rain gear. Add and remove layers as needed. Three pairs of gloves, hot weather gloves, cool weather. gloves, waterproof insulated gauntlet rain gloves that are long enough to fit up under my rain gear. The dry bag with all my extra clothing is on the seat right behind my back, so I can use it as a back rest. One last piece of advice. As we used to say as young bicycle racers, and ultramarathon bicyclists… HTFU (harden the F up) Don’t wast time trying to make your motorcycle comfortable. If you want total wind protection, smoothness, and comfort, quit kidding yourself and just take your F-ing car. 😂 I’ve subscribed, and I’m thinking either Alaska, or Maine to California, with my 2007 Honda Shadow VLX 600 this summer. For an old man with congestive heart failure… time’s a wasting :) One more thing… I ride alone, and I cannot imagine riding with a group. When you ride with a group the ride is about the group, and your memories and interactions are with the people in the group. When you ride alone your memories and interactions are with the places you go, and the people you meet along the way.
Man, you’re an inspiration! I just turned 50 and I bought my first bike late last year, a 2000 Valkyrie. I’m looking forward to putting together the gear you described and hitting the road!
@@TheRomans9Guy A Honda Valkyrie! That’s a little bigger than my first motorcycle. My little 250cc Yamaha was a great bike, and I still kind of miss it. It was so easy to work on, and to just generally deal with. Nothing about that motorcycle was heavy or expensive. Everyone told me I needed a bigger bike, so I got the 600cc Honda Shadow. It’s really bigger than I need. I still do all of my own maintenance, but pulling off the wheels is actually work with the Honda. But, I’ve gotten use to it, and it was cheap enough. Besides, I enjoy motorcycle riding, but I don’t really enjoy motorcycle shopping. One more thing… Be careful out there, motorcycle travel is addictive! :)
Wel aren't you special. Nothing wrong wen having cotton pants shirts. Wear cotton and road from Northern California to South West mo.and Kansas St 8 degrees. Little hard to believe some ones rode all them miles on a 250. Had a 750 Honda 2003 worst bike ever been on
In my case when traveling from central Ohio to Tennessee on my 1st solo ride the 12" apes I purchased before going saved my neck,I also have back issues and the pain and stiffness goes right to my neck. I also stopped about every 75 miles and hung out talking to complete strangers and just refueling so to speak. Something about riding in the foothills of Appalachia alone at your own pace does wonders for the soul.
When someone starts out doing trips on a bike , it turns into a learning curve for sure. Some things ive learned , if its cool in the morning when you leave , put all the gear on before you go. You can strip it off as the day gets warmer. Also , get a heated vest !!! Having your core warm does wonders for overall comfort. Heated grips also make a huge difference. You'll learn over time...take less stuff , especially clothes , you wont need them. You,re spending the majority of your time riding and dont need alot of laundry. You;ll also learn to pack so stuff you may need during the day , is accessible. I ride an Ultra Limited and i use the side bags for riding gear , me and my girl get one each. The tour pak is for luggage. , then i have a small hard case harley bag on top of the tour pak that is for daily stuff like water, sunscreen, smokes , snacks etc , that way its super easy to get to. Got this down to a science after a ton of trips ! One last thing , if im on a road i dont know , slow down on the corners , better safe than sorry ! Looking forward to the next video for sure , always good to see other peoples adventures
All you said is correct on a long trip, but carry a small towel to wipe the seat, rubber surgical type gloves to wear inside glove that maybe wet, extra socks. Tire repair kit, air refill pump for tire, tools, battery booster in case your battery is dead.
My first road trip was 1260 miles on a 2020 iron 883 with only a saddlemen step up and slip ons for mods. Talk about things you should have done differently? My hands are still vibrating. It was awesome.
We all learn the hard way. Chaps are ok for cold weather, but much better to have vented waterproof riding gear so no need to even stop. The HD fashion crowd may not approve, but way more functional. Opt for the transition visor too, much easier.
Really appreciated seeing another side of you in this video. Respect the eff out of your objectivity in reviews, and now respect your humility and grace with regard to admitting that about your vision (letting your eyes get away from you). So many RU-vidrs try to be Billy Badass, and it always feels like bullhiz, so thank you for keeping it real! And great footage, btw. ✌🤘
I have put over 75,000 miles on my 2017 Road Glide and the one thing that I have found is to have a pair of ear plugs. That and packing pretty much the same ever time so i am not digging and unpacking a saddle bag to find my rain gloves when they are in the other bag. The other is a heated Jacket, not only for those early morning rides in the mountains but also in the rain. If your cold you lose focus and thats not a good thing.
We do a road trip almost every year, last year it was California to Nashville and definitely not the express route, we did 5800 miles in 22 days. So believe me when I tell you, you will learn something from every one. We've ridden in rain, snow and 112-degree heat, which was maybe the most taxing of all. I have a check list that I keep, and I try to update it after a trip with anything I may have learned or thought of. Keep it up, the memories are priceless.
I tour quite a bit, I travel with padded fxrg pants and jacket. They are waterprooof, but can be vented when its warm. In the winter I layer with thermals and sweatpants, then the fxrg pants. Summer, I wear shorts and when off the bike I take it off and wear flip flops as well. I carry 3 pairs of gloves, one gauntlet with thinsulate, and my helmet is a bell star with the transition shield (No more shield changes) I'm never cold even in the upper 20's.I ride an ultra limited, the mods I made was a seat (Mustang summit heated) and backrest.(The factory bars are adjustable, they go forward and back quite a bit. (I'm 6'3"") Makes all the difference. Last year I did several plus 1000 mile trips and was dry and comfortable the whole time. Thanks for all your content, Especially the carry content.
great video.. thanks for sharing. made similar mistakes on my first road trip. Now I spend days preparing and planning for each trip and use a checklist to make sure I don't forget anything. it really boils down to packing a kit for rain, another for cold, and your warm weather riding gear. Keep the videos coming.. great stuff.
I grew up in the area that you were riding in. I've done a couple 1k in a days, (one ended up being 1364 miles in 23 hours). You're absolutely right, nothing feels better than that accomplishment of finishing the trip. Just personal preference, but on trips, cold and wet weather stay packed in the left saddlebag, then tools, jumpbox, oil, glasses, etc. stay in the right saddlebag. Clothes and all of that stay in the sissybar bag, so I can grab and go whenever I get to where I'm going. My biggest help, comfort-wise, was the Ciro frame mounted highway pegs because they gave me more options to stretch out. Ride safe, man!
One thing I watch out for at night in the mountains is night vision with the displays ...I actually don't count on my phone at night cause one wrong glance at a phone .... off you go to Valhalla
I feel some of your pain. I took an advance class weeks before my first trip to the tail of the dragon. I’d only been riding for a year. The twisties and the highway were pretty intimidating for me. I managed to make it there and back home safely. This was an organized group ride. I was lucky that someone paid attention to my skill set and decided to help me. It was a 2 day ride and after the first day I knew that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with the group, and it rained that entire day. Luckily I stayed at the motel knowing my limits and not wanting to hinder the group from enjoying themselves. It was a learning experience and I’m still learning as I just returned from a trip to Daytona bike week. I decided to stay in a hotel halfway down and back. This helped with my confidence traveling alone and for 500+ miles total one way. I also experienced cold weather on the way home. I layered up and took it like a man lol. You made some good points about preparing properly. I like to live and learn myself, but it’s also good to get advice from experienced riders. Sorry for the long rant. Safe travels to you .
Hey Duncan, just curious as I'm a new Harley rider myself. I did own and ride a Can-am Spyder for about a year and a half, but I never did long trips on it either. My question is, how many miles did you get in during your first year of riding and if you can remember, about how many miles did it take you to start feeling comfortable enough to get on the highway? I bought a 2023 Street Glide Special and I haven't even broke it in yet. I'm up to about 200 miles now and I take it out as often as I can just to get comfortable with it. I'm doing very well and learning fast. I'm even good enough now to ride in heavy traffic around town, but it's still a little tough getting used to the weight at slow speeds. Going from 3 wheels to 2 is very different, but it was a great decision! Just starting up my Harley adds a few hairs to my chest every time, lol.
@@KuntryBoy4Lyfe I had planned on doing 3000 miles the first year, but ended up with a lot more. Not riding full time due to winter in NC, I have ridden approximately 13,000 miles in 23 months. You just have to ride every chance you get. I purchased a Street Glide for my first motorcycle ever, because I didn’t want to have to buy and trade in. Decided to get what my goal bike was and learn how to ride it. I’ve been blessed and covered while riding it. I started out doing local back roads in order to avoid traffic and improve my confidence and get the 45 mph speed range down. Then I would do one exit to exit on the highway and then increase it every time out. You also may have to adjust the rear shocks to get rid of the loose rear end. I force myself to do more as if I’m experienced. There’s a lot of people that say you’re not experienced enough to do long rides or ride with more experienced riders. How do you accomplish this if you’re told that you’re not experienced or ready. I a lone wolf right now and I know my limits. I’m working on getting better. You also have to remember that in the training course you was taught slow riding skills. The experienced riders that have helped me on how and when to use the front or rear brakes properly have helped a lot. Take an advance motorcycle course and just continue to ride and practice, of which I need to do more often. I follow different you tubers and review their advice on becoming a more experienced rider. Keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down. Safe travels.
@@KuntryBoy4LyfeI know that feeling your talking about with a big bagger. The weight and power is intimidating. Get on that fkr daily. Low speed maneuvers are where it's at. I been clocking 30k miles yearly for a long time. You'll only get better riding em. Yup I've wrecked a few times and dropped them a DOZEN times. Riding alone is the absolute best as is long road trips. Best of luck!
I rode from Victoria BC to Toronto ON when I was a young man. I had a Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic. Beautiful bike. I was not prepared. The bike was not prepared. Flash forward 20 or so years, and I'm riding my Harley from Edmonton to Newfoundland and back (one week each way with a week in St. John's). I feel much better about this trip!
If someone can learn from me here's what happened. I decided to go from Houston to the Texas Twisted Sisters (3 hills we call mtns), a popular biker destination here in Texas. It's about 300-400 miles to get there, and then about 40 miles or so of twisty roads. So i booked a campsite at a state park and headed out. I arrived at the hubcap grill (where everyone goes for biker bar atmosphere and souvenirs) at 5pm only to find it closed. Also in the hills it gets dark at 5pm. My expensive cellular provider, verizon, also has no coverage there, so once i exited google maps i couldn't pull it back up so i had no idea how to get to my campground. While in Houston the temps at night were 50-ish in the hills 400 miles to the northwest the temp that night i found out later was 29! So.. lost, dark, no dinner, no campground, deer all over the place, i decided to make camp just off the driveway of the restaurant. Slept with all my gear on freezing to death. Even ran the bike for a while so i could cuddle up to the tailpipes! Next time I'm bringing a real honest-to-goodness map. And downloading an offline map. And bringing warmer gear than i think i could ever need! I also make the dumb assumption that therecwould be gas ststions along such a well known destination. Nope. Next time I'm bringing extra gas too!
Leakey resident here. Sorry about the ride but it does make a good rode memory. Yeh we are out of the civilized world out here but we like it that way. Tourists from the big cities give us a laugh when their expecting all the amenities they are use to. This area is crazy with wildlife and never ride at night. You're not even safe during daylight. Hope you can come back out and enjoy it.
@@johngaulding3710 haha! I grew up in the country. But been living in the city since 18. I never felt like such a city-slicker till that night!! LOL! Loved the ride. Will definitely be back, just better prepared.
Just did Indiana to DC on my Goldwing. At one point, the spring on my center stand broke, which made a hell of a raucous as tne stand drug on tne pavement. Bungee cords and zip ties saved the day - 2 things I almost took out of my toolkit. As long as I've toured, not a single trip has passed without lessons learned. You'll have many more. Congrats on your first trip! Wishing you many more!
I could make a huge list of what I’ve learned or was taught. Rok Straps instead of bungees. Tire Plug kit. Light wool socks. Wicking, non-cotton underwear. Thin glove liners for extra cold days. Backrest 100%. When buying new bars, make sure your hands are not above your shoulders and make sure they’re not too wide. Making slow tight turns with tall wide bars, sucks. The list gets a whole lot longer when you add camping into the mix. But it’s fun as hell.
I live in St. Louis and the longest rides I’ve done are to Chicago, Kansas City, and Nashville. My trip to Nashville was back in 1996 on my 1993 Low Rider. Didn’t pack rain gear and when we woke up Sunday morning to ride back it was raining and I was miserable. Learned a lot from that trip. Since then I’ve owned a 2000 Night Train and my current bike is a 2007 Softail Custom. I’m 52 now and my next bike will be a touring bike to do longer rides. Love the channel. 👍
Dedicated touring bikes come with lowers, tour packs, heated grips and seats for a reason. My first big road trip was 2000 miles round trip to Sturgis on my Springfield. That trip quickly taught me the difference between a bagger and a dedicated touring bike. I know ride a Roadmaster.
Newbie here..are lowers, like on an Ultra Classic Harley, supposed to protect the lower legs from the knee down? Asking because I talked to two people on Harley’s where debris hit each in the lower leg and almost chopped their legs off.
@@dry509 If you get hit with road debris you might be riding too close to the traffic ahead. I stay back at least 150 yards or more from semi trucks and most other vehicles. A chunk of tire tread can do worse than take your leg off, that shit can kill you!
@@dry509 I retired and purchased my first motorcycle, a 2014 Yamaha V Star 250, in February of 2021. I rode that little Yamaha all over the country, over 18,000 miles, in 2021. I Purchesed a 2007 Honda Shadow VLX 600 in December of 2021. I rode it into both Canada and Mexico, over 11,000 miles, in 2022. The Honda is a great motorcycle. Really well built and nicer finished than the Yamaha, but I kind of miss the little Yamaha. The bigger 600cc motorcycle wasn’t really necessary. I’ve probably spent more that $8,000 traveling in the last two years, but after selling the Yamaha and purchasing the Honda I have about $2,200 invested in my motorcycle. That’s about the right balance :)
I spent 7 years in central mn before moving back home to swmo. I've found my snowmobile gloves/jacket are amazing for riding on those cool days. Great video BTW
Your rain pants will work as a wind barrier / 2nd layer when it gets cold. Base layers are good and pack well; they can be put on if weather turns cooler. I always ride trips with 3 pair of gloves (standard, warmer and waterproof). Nearly froze my hands off in July on the Blue Ridge Parkway in the rain once. Carry layers like long sleeve T-Shirts, quarter-zip fleece etc.
I did my first long trip in 1990 and have been hooked ever since. You learned the first lesson in long trips, be prepared for any weather. Being able to layer up to stay warm and being able to stay dry really add to the enjoyment of a trip. Since it sounds like you don’t have much experience in riding twisty roads, I would suggest you sign up for the Champ U online course and maybe even take the Champ U street bike course if they have one in your area. The skills they teach could save you from having an accident and getting hurt, or maybe even save your life.
My first big trip was on my Tiger 1200. Surprisingly comfortable riding. I definitely over packed. Tool kits, tire pumps, charging cables for anything. The best piece of kit was a good rain suit, ear plugs , and cleaner for my visor. I guess the rest was “just in case” but I felt I could have packed a lot lighter. Can’t wait to do it again.
Tank bag for glasses,camera, snacks. Ciro drink holder + a yetty. Rickrak for clothes. Saddle bags for camping gear or clothes layers and tool roll. You're on the right track, brother. Sounds like Mike got a lot of experience. I do 14 to 25 days of trips at 1 time. Listen to your buddy he won't steer you wrong.
You’ll love your Volunteer Audio setup. I had Jay put new speakers and a new amp about 2 years ago and just last week he upgraded the amp and put new lower speakers on my ‘21 Ultra. The sound is amazing.
My dad and I rode from Detroit to Folly Beach, SC and I wore a back brace the entire ride because I have arthritis in my lower back and I can honestly say it helped. It was our first road trip and we made some mistakes as well. We learned from it so when we ride to Houston this year it'll be better
Surgical gloves under your riding gloves are also a good way to keep your hands warm and dry. When your hands get too sweaty just throw them out and put on a fresh pair.
I've made some of the gear mistakes as well on those trips. On any trip I'll always take my D3 Riff half chaps/shin guards and my lighter weight hugger chaps. The D3s are great to deflect the wind but also blocks any rocks getting kicked up onto your shins. My latest big trip was Maryland to Arkansas and back. Last trip my rain pants just gave out and were flapping all over, so went and got me a joe rocket set and work great. Looking forward to thr audio build. I've been talking to Jay and a couple of his techs on my build when I decide to go full blown. Currently rocking hertz 165 neo speakers and a SD amp. I'll swap to a VA kit when I do lowers to get the most out of my audio.
I live in north Georgia and when you mentioned “real twisties” that’s pretty much everything out here as this whole area is on top of a mountain range. I absolutely love riding here, twisties and beautiful scenery as soon as I pull out of the neighborhood. You definitely have to be solid on planning your lines, and looking through the turns to where you want to go or you may end up riding off a 200 foot drop off. A lot of roads around here don’t have guard rails so the only thing that will stop you from reaching the bottom if you go off the edge are trees if you’re lucky lol. And I’ll never buy a tinted face shield, visibility conditions change too much. Right now my helmet has a clear face shield, and I just wear shades under it so if it gets dark or rainy I just pop my shield up and take my shades off. When I get a new helmet I’m going to get one with the built drop down internal shades so I don’t have to carry shades with me but for now, what I have is good enough. And I always dress in layers, but that’s something I learned in the military that carry’s over. Because if you don’t need it, just take it off, but when you do need it but you didn’t bring it because you thought it was gonna be warm enough or it wasn’t going to rain hard and it does, it gets miserable real quick and there’s nothing you can do about it.
Another Georgia rider here. Don't spread the word, but we are blessed to have some of the best riding east of Mississippi. 😉 I'm always up in North Georgia, North Carolina & Tennessee from spring to fall & ride just about year round, making day trips to central Georgia during the winter. Located in north metro Atlanta, I routinely get my fix for twisties riding the Suches loop & the Richard B. Russell scenic hwy for a quick 150 mile run. While the Dragon is just 4 hours away, I often opt for other rides like the Moonshiner 28 or the Cherohala. Ride safe and enjoy!
Thanks for the video I got some inspiration to take mine for a long trip. Just got a 21 Electra glide last week. The ol lady and I have a trip planned to Charleston sc in may. Trying to talk her into us taking the bike. Super stoked for it. Will be my first motorcycle trip over 100 miles (we live in north Florida) I am going to look into those lowers on the engine guard and a full face helmet. Thanks bro
Absolutely. Good gear matters when you're touring - buy the best gear you can afford so you don't need to keep replacing shitty gear. My raingear is always on board and everything is in small stuff bags of various colors to locate anything quickly. My only pair of riding boots are Gore-tex lined that are both breathable and waterproof & when I'm touring, I switch to my carbon fiber modular helmet to reduce wind noise & neck fatigue as well as stay dry in the rain. Lastly, my first bike mod was a backrest to reduce back & shoulder fatigue that allows me to ride those 500+ mile days without any whining. Good job and thanks for sharing!
Great video glad to see someone can admit, to their mistakes and laugh about it. We all had to learn sometime I started in 1968 and it had more than my share of screw ups all because the dumb things I’ve done l will watch more of your videos just want you to know it was great.
I've spent several weeks in that part of the NC, TN and VA smokies. There are a couple of maps that show the Named mtc routes like the Rattler, The Diamondback, etc. Living in SC myself it's my go to area for a few days or a week of wind therapy 😊
Just want to say I appreciate your honesty about getting sore, tired, cold, etc. There’s a lot of guys out there that act like they’re “fine” and I was left thinking I’m a wuss haha. Having the right gear is paramount! I live in Johnson City TN and understand the stark temperature changes from riding on a highway to then getting down in a holler where it instantly feels 15 degrees cooler. I am planning to ride to Daytona in a few days and one of things I invested in was the Kurakyn engine guard chaps because my feet always seem to get cold no matter what kind of socks I wear. Right now, I dedicate one of my saddlebags to have all the motorcycle gear - chaps, rain suit, boot covers, seat cover, extra gloves, balaclava - and the rest of the bags will be for clothes and stuff. Thanks again for the honest video.
I did a 260 mile roundtrip on my 125 just before Christmas, I knew it was going to be cold and wet so I took two pairs of gloves (heated full gauntlets and knuckle leathers), five layers on top and three on the bottom (including a full merino wool base layer and waterproof outers), didn't have a choice with my helmet - my full face lids were both waiting for new pads so I was stuck with my open face - so bally and gaiter got put on as well. I was toasty warm even through the sideways rain. January 4th I'll be doing a 350 mile round trip (which'll take the better part of 14 hours so I'll be leaving and arriving in the dark).
Good video, man. I can relate to a few of those experiences minus the rain, thankfully. Did 1600 miles from Philly to Acadia, Me. I thought I over packed for mountains being it was August.. yeah we stopped and grabbed a layer for the 6am starts. Lol. The winding roads started my realization to practice and be proficient at U-turns as we were shooting from the hip. I have a respect for the lost craft of map reading. Google gives me anxiety in trafficked city highway. Much better rider because of the experience
Yesterday 5/18/2023 was my first ever day trip. Went from Dallas to San Antonio 580 miles round trip on a lowrider ST. I have a SDC saddlemen seat with the back rest. And my Butt was on fire! Thank goodness for the bung king crash bars. Used em as highway pegs and was able to relive some ass pain. Lol. Also on stock handle bars. I am deff looking at risers and pull back now.
Dude, I carry chaps, long underwear, back up thermal socks and full leather gloves! I’ve gotten cold on The Tail of the Dragon before and it was bad!! Lol , never again though , got extra gear and always had it, awesome rides in a beautiful part of the Carolinas! Our first trip was great but was certainly a learning one! Was late spring and still rainy, cold and the roads were covered in leaves! Slippery and nasty out there but we all 30 bikes or more, had a great time on the Dragon and with minimal injuries! My first run was in 2008 on my brand new Suzuki Boulevard C50T , fun bike and an amazing trip up to the Smoky Mountains from South Ala. , just wish I could ride again, I’d love to be there with y’all!! Ride Safe 🙏
rode to savannah from orlando on a street glide 2 up…..very enjoyable ride. now i have an ultra and can’t wait to make the same ride with more luggage space and comfort
I live close to the Colbach dealership. There are so many backroads that are just like the dragon and not busy at all. I feel fortunate to have grown up riding the roads in east Tennessee
My wife and I recently planned a 9 day trip through 4 states. Packing for 2 people for 9 days was a challenge. My bike sure handled differently after it was loaded down. Since there was a huge chance of rain on day 9, we returned home on day 8. We had a great trip. Long-distance riding is my favorite type of riding. I will say for sure, my handlebars and my backrest were game changers for me.
You need to make that trip up to TN or VA once or twice a year. I'm about 3hrs away from the Rattler ride there, done it a couple times. I actually like it better than the Rattler. When you go back, ask your buddy to take you on the Cherohalla Pkwy ride. It's beautiful and has scenic views. Thanks for sharing the info on preparation for trips. Unfortunately, there are one or two things we all forget or could do better on. God bless and ride safe!
Great vid, my two cents, which u probably know, watch for deer especially at night, I hit one last fall riding up in central CA coast, thankfully I didn’t go down but I did kill it after I hit on my right side of my SGS. 8k in damage but able to ride it back home to a shop. Ride safe bud. 😎
Did a couple of 3500+ mile road trips: New Orleans to Washington DC and New Orleans to Milwaukee, both with some side trips while there. Found waterproof/wind proof overpants work better than chaps. Have an FXRG waterproof leather jacket that has vents that open and close that help regulate cooling when riding. A heated vest and heated gloves work best for me. Your right 14” apes and a backrest are also great options. This year we are going to ride the Old Route 66. Going to pick it up in Texas ride to Winslow AZ, catch Monument Valley and then the Four Corners before heading back. You’re also right about packing, can’t just throw stuff in and then find out when you on the road you need access to something that’s at the bottom of your saddlebag. Great video, thanks for sharing.
I ride big miles every year. 700 to 1,000 mile day is common. There are some things I’ve learned that I’m happy to share. Warm weather I have dry fit gear. Shirts, underwear, socks. I wear a long sleeve shirt in warm weather to protect from wind/sun. If I’m in colder weather I wear wool. It breaths and allows for the fluctuations in temps. It also is better if it gets a bit wet. Compression socks will make a huge difference. I wear Merrell boots that are rated to be waterproof. Nothing is really waterproof though. Taller boots will help keep socks dryer. Then the next thing is the bike. Proper tire pressure is a huge thing that is often overlooked. Can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a ride where you’re working too hard to continue. Heated grips keep my hands warm and loose. Nothing wrecks a journey like cold cramped hands trying to pull levers and such. I ride a touring bike with the satellite navigation. I’ve been in spots where there is no cell service so the map app on the phone is worthless. ( See previous comment about the Twisted Sisters in Texas ) Quality rain gear makes a difference. You get what you pay for. It’s also good for keeping warmer in colder weather as it is windproof too. Gators over boots, under the rain pants is key. Chaps to me are worthless. Too many spots that are exposed. I always pack 2 extra pair of socks and underwear to be able to swap,out if I get socked. Last, I won’t say never, but I rarely ride unfamiliar twisty roads in the dark. Too many things can go wrong. Animals are more active at night. Riders are harder to see. Obstacles in the road are harder to see. Always better to stop and be safe. All riders have learned the lessons of riding on a trip unprepared for the trip. That’s part of the journey in a saddle. Honestly, those trips make up the best stories later. When sitting in the bar or around the campfire no one talks about the ride where everything went smoothly.
I'm a Florida rider... straight n flat.... and moved to the mountains of western NC... it aint easy (and I'm 65yo disabled vet) teach an old dog new tricks
Some of my mistakes are when it's starting to rain I don't pull over right away and put my rain gear on. I try to ride through the rain thinking that it won't be so bad or it looks clear ahead. I should be through this in a few miles. That's when I put my rain gear on. After I get wet (sometimes). Got back from my first long distance trip (of this year) last week. It was 3200 miles. Gone for a week. Rode from Ohio to Florida. Now I am planning a few trips out west. Can't wait. Oh. Another problem I have is that I always over pack. But I guess it's better to have to much stuff than not enough. Safe travels.
Wind. You absolutely need gauntlet gloves. I have many gloves and the only ones that work are gauntlet. I use runners warmers from Costco. They work. Also use a handkerchief for your neck and face. First Manufacturing offers great jackets and gloves at a reasonable price.
Raw, yes. Appreciated, absolutely. Always easier to strip down than add on. A good base layer, (doesn't have to be MC gear) such as Under Armour that absorbs moisture and wicks it away is a must. A simple sweatshirt from WM packs small, and is usable. I use a Textile jacket (prefer Tourmaster) with a removable liner. I can easily remove the liner, open the vents, take off the sweatshirt as temps rise. I carry 4 sets of gloves. Light, (OSI cool), armored, (many available), waterproof,(long cuff) and snowmobile. Heated grips...can't stress that enough. Mine are HOT, in heavy rain, wisps of steam come off the gloves. Rainsuit: After 55 years of riding, I've had a few. and settled on Tourmaster Defender as the standard. Get is sized to go over your gear. I ride with waterproof boots, TCI from Italy. Keep the honest, straight up content coming!
Most of us are hard headed and have to learn the hard way.... Some of us learn from our mistakes some people will never learn. One of the biggest lessons I learned was choose very wisely who you want to ride with. Some people wanna ride 85-90mph in the rain, some people wanna ride 600-700 miles a day. Choose people who have the same riding style as you and have a serious sit down with the other riders what their expectations really are.
You have to make sure you bike is comfortable for you because being a little uncomfortable makes the ride miserable. Good rain gear and warm clothes underneath is so nice in the rain you will be happy you have it on. And heated grips are must (for me anyway) they seem to make your whole body warm. My stereo also helps on long rides!
After riding distance a lot for years, I actually forget that people don’t know this stuff. I just did about 1400 this weekend from Georgia to Arkansas and back. That is not arrogance because, I too, learned the hard way. I carry three different kinds of gloves and a pair of over gloves for rain. Chaps are a must. I left this morning in about 50 degree weather. Not cold, you say? After a couple of hundred miles that cold sets in, though. The flip side to that is a long sleeve sun shirt for hot sunny weather. I wear an Aria helmet and have a dark tinted shield and a clear one. It takes seconds to switch. I also recommend the new Rain-X product that works on visors. Good rain gear and boot gaiters are a must if you take any serious rides. Keep at it, pay attention to the lessons, and you will learn what you need to carry for every eventuality.
I've done a Saddlesore 1K (never submitted the paperwork) on my 2001 Kawasaki Concours. Love the bike, but that thing was a torture machine for me. I now have a 2008 GL1800 and I am getting ready to take around a 4,400 mile trip to see my daughter in Montana. I'm looking to at least score a SS1k and maybe a BBG on the way up. Currently the longest trip I did was when I got out of the Navy and rode from Bremerton, WA to San Antonio, TX. coming down Interstate 5 and then Interstate 10. Good luck on future rides and maybe look at a Ironbutt ride.
When I was 7313 years ago, I took a trip from Beverly Hills Florida to Tok Alaska it was about 5000 miles one way I pulled my camper behind my motorcycle. I stayed in Providence and state and federal parks. I only rode about 300 miles a day because I wanted to enjoy the parks when I got there I went out to Montana Alberta Alaskan highway and then I had to come back. And then I went to route 80 the word Drawings to route 70 And I follow route 70 of the Rocky Mountains and then I went to Texas and everything come back to Florida for the half months 14,000 miles beautiful trip
A few things from riding over the years. Properly sized windshield. Pair of pants one waist size larger than you think you normally wear. Chap stick and sun block. Carry your wallet in your tour pack/bags, that little bit of pressure all day can give you a sore back, neck ect. Notify your bank, credit union you’re out of town and using your cards. I.c.e card on you for emergency contacts if something happens to you. Air tags on my bike, and tour pack ect.. I want my stuff back and my wife can see where I’m at. Ride within your limits, know when to say when. From about 9pm to 5 am you will find it’s time to pull for the night.
I used to have an old Goldwing many years ago. If the roads were clear and it was above freezing I went on many winter rides. I Iearned a long time ago that if you don't keep the wind out whether it be up your back, down your neck or up your sleeves, you won't stay warm. Sometimes I look at all the RGs and I think man they are cool looking bikes. But when a cold pissing rain is blowing over that stubby windshield and up the sleeves of those outstretched arms hanging on to those apes. I think well that shark nose fairing is still a good place for a radio. Just my shitty opinion, don't take it to seriously. I have an Ultra Geezer now and if I might need it I have already packed it whether it be tools or gear. I don't melt in the rain but I have given up those winter rides. We have internet now days so cabin fever is not as big of a problem.
Great advice, I'm getting ready to do my first serious road trip from upstate NY to Charlotte, NC, and then on to the Tail of the Dragon. Going with a friend. I also set my 2014 Ultra Classic with front & rear Wilber LDC suspension, mustang extended touring seat for now. Just in those two things, the bike is a completely different ride.
What phone mount are you using? I got some cheap starter one that works, but its a pain in the ass to get the phone in and out of it. Thanks for the video!
I have back issues too. It is the reason I have never taken a long trip and also the reason I didn't go with a touring model. Although, I'm not against buying one in the future (thinking Goldwing, though). I'm on a 2020 Lowrider and love it. I live in the Charleston area and ride the country roads all over. Some days I only last an hour. Some days I can go 4 or 5. Once, I managed to ride up to Hickory, NC. The next day I was wrecked, but I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Great video; lots of good info. What part of SC?
Ha! Jedi practice with blast shields. You dont need a clear visor LOL. After 6 years of riding I consider myself a new biker so you sharing was informative. Cheers!
I live locally to Oak Ridge and Clinton, awesome that biker rags was in this video, wasn’t expecting it lol, but im a new rider going on 3 weeks now, thank u for the content. I unfortunately am learning to ride teaching myself in the mountains cause i live here lol
FXRG gear by HD works well. The jacket I have has zipped on layers and the gloves can be worn two ways. All season gear gives you more room for other stuff. A low profile cot that breaks down with an Army surplus sleep system rocks along with a small tent can come in handy if the weather forces you to do some side of the road camping. An emergency canteen and food that is sealed will tie you over, other than that a couple changes of pants and 3 days of underwear you can turn inside out for longevity. ;) Hygiene stuff with extra saddlebag jugs for gas and emergency stuff and all good. As far as tools, tools for shifting and a pair of intake gaskets for those long hauls and a quart of oil. I was on the road for 3 weeks not counting 4 weeks visiting relatives and friends. If you like to go without a helmet bring either a full head covering or a fullface for hail. Golfball size hail not fun. Beyond that don't push it to the limit but actually do it for the ride and the freedom to have that awesome moment you feel on top of the world to be with friends or the quiet time needed to isolate! I could write a book on my experiences and taking advantage of opportunity to experience touring on a ride you always wanted.
I've noticed, over the years, many motorcycle riders learn, after making that one mistake that causes discomfort. By far, many have learned the old fashioned way, the school of hard knocks. Road rash, if that's all the pain you get, is long lasting, before you even begin to feel better and are able to go out and get riding armor to wear. Ride for the slide... it's not if, but when, it will happen to you.
Good to hear you learned a lot and right on taking a long trip! A few things. Do you think feeling the need to film and get shots and what not takes away from the overall experience of the ride? Also try doing this trip with a wife or significant other!!! 😜 My wife and I ride multiple states roughly 7-8,000 miles over a 30 day period every summer. Like you said I’m not complaining because I do love the company and spending time with her out on the road but having my wife as my road dog definitely adds some extras to the side bags and tour pack of ya know what I mean! 😜 What I’ve learned over the years is first and foremost take your time don’t rush and soak it all in! Second is I make the ride the priority and if I get some good shots in while riding then cool. Bring rain gear and thermals. Wear sun protection. Pack your wallet in your front pocket. Talk about road wear on your butt. Also I use an air mat of sorts to cushion my a$$. One last thing is before I installed heated grips I invested in glove liners. Of course the heated grips don’t provide wind chill protection but on my Ultra I don’t feel that anyways. One last thing is I lay out everything I’m going to bring before the trip and then after the trip go through and see if it’s something you NEED or just want with you. Thanks for sharing your experience with us. ✌🏽🇺🇸🙏
Got back issues too, I used an elastic back support and a tens unit attached to my back already, I would just turn it on when I feel a little back pain
