One of the best ways to see all that the country has to offer is to take your touring motorcycle on a long-distance road trip! You’ll be able to explore beautiful scenery and enjoy hours on the open road. As with any big trip, you’ll need to prepare yourself beforehand. Keep reading to learn some long-distance riding tips! If you want any more advice or you’re looking to buy a new bike for your adventure, call Crystal Harley-Davidson in Homosassa Springs, Florida. We also proudly serve Citrus County!

Practice

Similar to a long-distance runner, you’ll need to build up your endurance before hitting the road. Hours on your bike can take a physical toll. Your eyes may dry out as you stare at the same stretch of road for hours on end. Your arms will get tired from being in an outstretched position. Your legs will become restless. You don’t want your trip to get sidetracked because you overestimated how long you could ride.

Start by taking shorter trips to figure out your current comfort zone. Make note of how often you need to take breaks. A day trip or a weekend outing can be a great place to start. Make sure you have a good understanding of how your motorcycle handles.

Build Your Route

When it comes to long-distance riding, you need to have a plan in place. Make your route and stick to it. Figure out where you want to stop along the way. Is there a certain restaurant you want to eat at? What about some hiking trails you want to explore? You can opt for the quickest route, the most scenic route, or a mix of both!

After planning the route, make sure you book your lodging. You should also have a plan for food, gas, and more.

Inspect Your Motorcycle

You may be ready for your long-distance ride, but what about your bike? Inspect your vehicle before you hit the road. Ensure that the tires have enough air pressure and tread. Check the fluid levels. Are your lights bright enough? Are your brakes and throttle functioning properly? If you notice anything out of the ordinary, postpone your trip and bring your bike in to the service department.

Pack Effectively

Motorcycles offer a limited amount of storage space. This means you need to pack effectively for your long-distance ride. Focus on taking the essentials. Start with water, food, a mini toolkit, a first aid kit, and waterproof outerwear. Next, pack your medications, toiletries, clothing, and more. Once you pack your gear, ensure that it is secure.

These are just a few of the long-distance riding tips we have to offer! If you have any questions or you’re looking to buy a new motorcycle, contact Crystal Harley-Davidson today. We are located in Homosassa Springs, Florida and proudly serve Citrus County. Our friendly staff looks forward to helping you make your next long-distance motorcycle trip one to remember!