Kudos to Matt on the earplugs! I’m 56, been working on ship engine rooms and power plants since i was 19, I wear earplugs when I ride (almost daily) religiously, my hearing is still great because of them.
In the MSF course, it is listed as the wind will do the damage and it makes sense. Plus, you feel less fatigued after a long day of riding when wearing ear plugs.
I didn’t know about this years ago and saw it when I got back into riding. So many people will say it blocks horns and what not just like they say a full face helmet reduces peripheral vision. I have eargasm plugs which reduce wind noise but let other frequencies in
@@gfunk63901 I have actually found that when I use my regular earplugs in my full face helmet, which has a Bluetooth setup installed, that I can hear the speakers better with earplugs in than without, I have no trouble hearing car horns or traffic.
This is a very good informative video. But, after having done many long trips I've now come to realise, is to dump the 'leather' jacket. It takes a lot of courage for a long time biker (especially a Harley guy) to do it but man, just like your arguments relating to using a modular helmet, I now dawn a quality 4 seasons 'adventure' riding jacket (with an external waterproof shell - Revit or Klim for example). These have plenty of pockets, very comfortable armor protection, wind vents for cooling and you stay very dry, not just in a passing storm but also in torrential all-day rain, without the hassle of stopping and/or putting the plastic on - especially over leather. I now use my leather jackets for daily/shorter rides where no rain is expected. And not having to carry waterproof plastic rain jackets saves lots a space, especially if you are riding with a passenger.
Good list. I run with most of this gear. I also run with the HD left rear engine guard water bottle holder. I ditched the HD plastic bottle because I usually buy a Gatorade with the flip top. It’s tucked away down low (hate the big cup holders on the bars) and easily accessible with my left hand. Be safe on the way to Sturgis. Later….
Excellent video. Earplugs are a must and have been using them since I bought my first Harley and helmet back in '63 from I believe your grandfather Bob. Rode between Alhambra and Mt. SAC 5 days a week for 2 years. Joined the Air Force and spent 20+ years where they emphasized the use of ear plugs in all noisy environments. Just recently purchased a Freewheeler in which I plan on traveling around the USA and visiting the National Parks. Your list of the top 10 items is a great review of things that I definitely intend of having with me while traveling. Being on Maui I find that the shirts with body armor a great addition and wear them on all of my rides.
Great video, want to ask about the phone mount. Very much interested on the one that screws into the switch housing, don’t seem to find it in the quad lock website, any pointers? Thanks ahead and again great video as always…
You guys nailed it. I do a lot of long haul riding and I agree with everything, I have a white Neotec II just like Matt’s, for the guys that think it’s not cool your wrong It really makes a difference in heat, can be as much as 12 or more degrees cooler inside than a black helmet. I’m 64 and have been riding for 46 years, I live in Southern Cal as well and have been to Sturgis several times, I take all my gear, rain and cold weather. Depending on your route you can easily hit temps from 105 or more to 32 or lower. I have used all the gear on every trip, Especially if your going through Colorado or towards Yellowstone. Wish I was going this year travel safe guys.
The Neotec is no doubt a great helmet, but some buddies that own it complained about its weight (1,855g). That led me to research other helmets before buying and I was leaning to either the Schuberth C4 (1660g) & the HJC RPHA 90s carbon fiber (1,305g). When said and done I opted for the HJC.
The Sedici Sistema is a super comfy modular priced perfectly for a budget. Sub $250. Very cushy padding, ear slots for bluetooth, plenty of vents, pull down goggle shades. I put in a photo-chromatic shield that darkens in the sun and stays clear at night plus added the pin-lock for fogging. Love the helmet Grew up in Sturgis. I avoid rally time but make sure you ride Spearfish and Vanocker Canyons. Also Needles Hwy down by Custer is a must. Mt Rushmore of course. You’ll want to return someday outside of the rally to truly enjoy it in peace. But the rally is def a bucket list item for any biker. Enjoy it!
@@MattLaidlawif time is limited Spearfish canyon is the must do. Generally rated in the top 10 for best rides in the US. Lots of waterfalls to stop and enjoy too. Vanocker is easy because it’s right outside Sturgis. Needles and Rushmore are a couple hours away. But there is no bad riding in the Black Hills. It will just be crowded during the rally. You all are going to have a blast. ✌️
Andrew, bro you're lookin great with the weight loss. As a fat guy who has recently lost a bunch of weight but still has more to lose, I would offer one word in what I see with your weight loss. That word is "STOP" you look great bro, but if you go much further you are gonna go from looking young, healthy and in good shape (lucky you) to being the guy they ask (is he sick?) about. Again congrats. You have me inspired to keep up my journey. If it's not too personal, what are you doing to lose the weight? I have lost almost 75 pounds in the last 2 months simply by doing intermittent fasting. Im going from almost 800 LBS to my current 370, which for me feels great. Good work bro
I spent parts of two summers riding in Ireland. Each time it was three weeks. I did the following: Made sure my leather jacket was properly cleaned and treated so it would shed water. It would shed a steady rain for four hours before it soaked through. It rained every day, so I just wore my rain pants starting out and wore them all day. It was too much to stop and fight to get the rain pants on. I kept my Harley rain coat bungeed on top of all my stuff, so it was easy on, easy off. I always wore a modular HJC helmet. It was pin locked. Otherwise, it would fog up. The helmet fit perfectly. Even though it was summer, it was darned cold every morning, especially on the Atlantic side. I brought warm guantlets along for those mornings. I had three pairs of gloves along. One pair was always drying. My boots were waterproof. I made to be sure to be flexible in my itinerary. Some days, it was just pouring a deluge, and I'd stay an extra day at the hotel. The roads were more often wet than dry, and often covered in slippery agricultural products so a cautious and upright riding style were the watchwords of the day. A bike with good fenders is essential.
As a rider that owns 10+ helmets i couldn't agree more. Get the proper size. A lot of ppl go bigger because its "comfy" which is bad. Also if you're gonna cheap out on any gear definitely make sure its not your helmet. Awesome video Matt 😎
Experience will teach you to pack very light, always bring GOOD rain gear, tire plug kit, air compressor, a few essential tools, and a battery jumper. Invest in a battery jumper. I was out in the middle of nowhere, pulled over to take a picture and the battery died. Not a lot of traffic on that road either I found out.
I have that leather coat you showed in the video. That thing is very heavy and very warm. I can ride into the upper 30s with that leather and a sweatshirt under it without too many issues!
Greetings from dubai, I have to say that your RU-vid channel is absolutely amazing, from the moment I clicked on your videos I was captivated and tuned by the high quality videos which truly is bringing the essence of the iconic Harley Davidson brand to life and also the range of several contents. Appreciate and love to follow your channel.
One thing that I do wear during NZ - winter periods is RST THERMAL WIND BLOCK SHIRT & PANTS and for the rain I use booties that slip on over my boots and under the rain pants, this way you stay dry and warm
I always travel with 2x rags and a motorcycle cleaning spray. I learn that from a mototrouper that he’s always cleaning his bike before he patrols. And it’s really reliable because bikes does gets dirtier and some people likes to clean them while others don’t. What I found useful from this vid is the heated jacket. Some people just say sweater while you hit the jackpot mentioning the rain scenario. So from now on, I will include my Milwaukee heated gear on. And yes I started wearing vest too last year. Though the way I wear them differs from the way you showed it. I guess I can intergraded that with my long distance trip and not having to bring an actual motorcycle jacket. Because if I do, then I wouldn’t need the vest. Great tips with your teams. I use most of them on my daily basis. Even if I don’t mentioned them in the comment but the ones that I did is what I’ll work towards from now on.
@@MattLaidlaw here’s my list. Just made that yesterday. 0- Before Trip Change all three hole oil. Inspect tire with 5/32nd thread life minimum and service plug for 5k miles or more use. 1- Tire/Air Inflator Gun 2- Battery Jumper. 3- Multitool Roll Pouch with Multitool Pliers & Flashlight. 4- Tire Patch Kit 5- Heated Jacket w/ Riding Vest and Padded Long Sleeve Armor with Hoodie. 6- Rain Jacket and Pants 7- Bike Cover & 2x Rag with Motorcycle Cleaning Spray. 8- Water Bottle & Snack (Cracker) 9- Code Reader, Extra Spark Plug, Disposable Oil Funnel & Silicon Gasket Material. 10- Harley Owner Manual & Also Essential for Bodily Change and Wash for multiple days touring. Phone charger etc.
The cooling vest has worked great for me which I learned before your video. I soak mine the night before and put in the motel fridge and then put in in their garbage bag and take it out once temps pickup. The trick is to leave your keys near them so you don’t forget it
Nice video. For the helmet lock I use Lidlox that stay mounted on your switch housing. It does add another key but it's small and for a bonus Robert Becker makes a rad seat lock that can be matched to your lidlox key. One key for two jobs.
I have never been on a long trip on my bike but I hope to upgrade to a Touring bike and take a road trip in the future. I enjoy watching your videos where you guys take road trips so I highly respect all of your recommendations about what gear to use. Thanks for the video.
Great reminder. I actually loaded up on some equipment after watching your last video to Solvang. The best ear plugs I use are for the shooting range. So much better then the foam.
Great info! Make sure you get the vibration dampener on those Quad-Lock mounts. Without it, phone damage will occur internally. Friends have lost certain focus functionality with their cameras and touch screen capabilities. Be Safe!
Just did 6500 miles with Run For the Wall…budget limited me to a Bell modular but it was the ideal lid to wear in a group on a long ride like that. Sipped water when I needed as we rolled. That was a necessity in the desert and south. I will get a Neotec 2 next. I put a RickRak on my Road Glide and it served very well. Lots of portable sleeves to slip on. Drink holder a must. Rain gear a must. Proper abrasive resistant pants and a Klim Marrakesh even in hot was excellent. Waterproof cold weather glove and hot weather gloves Some tools and yes a tire plug kit and mini Harley compressor .
With the kicks and coaster I drill a small hole in it and tie some para cord to it I can pull it up once I sit on the bike. I have a small loop I hang off the handle bar. It also helps so you don't forget it.
Great video Matt, I need to make one of these just for Florida. Unfortunately it so freaking hot here, there's no way I want to get on bike. Sucks I know!
I absolutely agree with this list! Clothing is probably the biggest thing for me that can make or break a long trip. Rain gear is a must-have. I rode out to Colorado and when I started home it was 45, then I got outside of Denver down into the plains and it was 90. My gear and clothing for sure gets packed first!
I have a ciro cup holder for my 30 oz yeti tumbler and I made a rubber hose straw with mouth piece that’s easily used while riding, it’s my favorite hack.
Another great video Matt and company! Additionally for hydration I bring a Camelback (fill with ice then water) laying it on the items on my back seat. Speaking of the back seat, I carry a Kryptonite lock/chain in a small cooler. I used to lay it in my left saddlebag but it's too heavy. In addition for security I use the H-D local alarm disc lock. Keep the videos coming! Thank you 🇺🇸
The reason I prefer the full face at all times is because I feel it will be the safest if I was to hit the face full front, whereas I am a bit worried the snap up piece on the modular may not survive the impact if the front piece snaps off from the helmet.
@@MattLaidlaw I value security over convenience in this regard, so I would recommend the full face at all times. I am honestly shocked how many people over here ride around with the 3/4 helmets. You are literally left with facial destruction with a frontal impact.
Hello from Montana. Been watching your videos for quite awhile now and love them! Very entertaining, and filled with very useful information with a solid professional delivery.
Great video thx. Very helpful. Glad you emphasize good full gear. I wear more armored gear, though. My leather jacket has CE 2 back protection insert as well as as shoulder/elbow. My leather gloves have armored knuckles and palm sliders. Every bike I have owned immediately replaced lead acid battery for lithium IRON battery. 5 pounds lighter, no corrosion, no hydrogen gas, full cranking power till 2% charge(lead acid are dead at 70% charge, no trickle charger needed, last longer, longer warranty, charge in minutes vs hours, higher CCA, cranks faster especially with larger V2, etc. Antigravity batteries always kept one emergency start.
Enjoy Sturgis! Make sure you guys check out the 4 Presidents monument. And yes the helmets comes off & the ear plugs are a must 👍.. good call on that! Stop by Rapid City HD too it’s a must! Safe journey guys 🚀
Thanks for getting me into service when I was on my road trip. Very nice meeting you and Nick that day. Looking forward to your posts from Sturgis if you guys are still going. Thanks again and take care.
Excellent video. I just returned from a 9 day 2500 mile trip from So. Nevada over to No.Calif coast (Crescent City), up through Oregon (Lincoln City), into central Oregon (Burns) back into No Calif, Chico, over to Quincy, through Nevada (Fallon), back down to Pahrump on my HD 2016 Ultra Classic. I agree on all your gear choices and carry them up on the bike. One small thing. At the end of your excellent video I noticed a tech working on your bike removing the hard box. On our trip (7 bikes) I unfortunately witnessed the rider ahead of me (2015 Ultra) lose his right hard box going down the road at about 75 mph (what a horrible sight and sound). So as you pack your gear, and stuff your boxes, make sure your attachment pins are properly secured. Thanks again for the wonderful information.
Great info just quick note after wrecking 3 cameras on my iPhone I no longer mount on my bars. Quad lock actually has a video listing Harley bikes that seem to wreck camera.
🤟All those items are in my tour pack all the time. The only thing what i add to it is an extra pair of gloves. i always have an extra pair in my bike. when it gets wet i just change it. It can be a comfort level booster. Also the heated hand grips.
Nice video and very informative. One item I would add to increase the comfort level are bicycle shorts with chamois liner. Where under your pants, they absorb sweat and you never get a wedgy.
Currently my kit from 50+ years of British and European tours with its unpredictable weather. Shark modular helmet giving you the options for open face, visor and full face with a sun visor of course & fitted with Buetooth kit for satnav. Textile Halvarsson jacket & trouser with full armour & detachable inner linings the jacket part of which can be used independently as a casual jacket in its own right; this I use in all weathers from 4 - 40 degrees, wet or dry. With this kit I do not have to stop every time the weather changes from dry to wet. Using open cuffs, neck and vents in very hot weather forms a kind of air conditioning effect as air flows through the sleeves to the back. In cold weather there's nothing IMO to beat layers so I always carry the linings whether attached or loose as luggage plus a Thinsulate vest and top or two. Goretex medium weather gloves for most riding together with a pair of leather light summer pair or BMW's full winter gloves if cold. All gloves have knuckle protection and they must fit INSIDE the jacket cuffs not outside. If you hit a rain storm no matter high tight your gloves on the outside sooner or later water will wick down the jacket into the gloves, with the gloves on the inside the water runs over and off the gloves. For this reason I always takes gloves with me when choosing a new jacket, preferable with zipper cuffs to secure over the gloves. Dainese Goretex touring boots, expensive but so, so comfortable to walk in. Other: Tyre plug kit and air pump (same as Harley Davidson but bought well before they branded them). Pair latex gloves, hand wipes & cleaning cloth/rag. Spare pair glasses & a light weight fluorescent jacket should you or someone with you break down on the road side. Some wear them all the time but I do not. (Both mandatory within the EU BTW). Tool kit for my old classic bikes. Phone, credit card & full European breakdown cover.
a cooling vest for that Sturgis ride is essential… or a mesh jacket with a wet short sleeve t-shirt underneath……Between Gillette WY and Sturgis you’ll hit rain
My cold weather gloves are also waterproof. Definitely gets cold when you get wet. Personally I don't have a phone mount. If I have it with me I just keep it in my pocket. I only use it when I'm stopped.
Excellent video, I agree with just about everything. I would include a small flashlight as a must have but I'm most surprised you didn't even honorable mention a first aid kit.
Great content from the crew at Laidlaw. Thanks Matt, Andrew's has a Shoei helmet i like what he said about the Sena. I noticed it doesn't stick out on the side. What Shoei helmet is that?
One VERY important thing you missed is a TPS. Unknowingly losing tire pressure while riding can be incredibly dangerous. Best to have this simple and affordable device
Gloves are a must for me! I just rode past your dealership on my way to San Diego a few weeks ago!!! I wanted to check out the dealership, I ride a Yamaha so I was unsure about dropping in. You would have most likely sold me the bike I’m dreaming of!! 😂😂😂
Hey Matt really enjoy the videos and reviews especially the series ‘Best enjoyed on two wheels.’ Quick question, for the Quadlock what Mount are you using for it to bolt up to the switch housing? Thanks.
Hey Matt, I thought I saw in previous videos, you had the Rockform phone mount attached to your engine guard. If you did, what influenced your decision to change to the Quad Lock? I run a Freak Mount on my tank but am looking to change to a handle bar option. What influenced your choice?
I like the water bottle but what do yall do for drinking while riding down the road. I found a handbar mounted drink holder worked well on a recent trip but I agree with Matt on less clutter and keeping it clean.
I use a Shark Evo helmet,the chin guard deploys to the back of the helmet ,so can be worn open face without the guard catching the slipstream ,in UK there is a law where above a certain speed the helmet chin guard must deploy fully to rear .
