10 essentials for every motorcycle road trip

[totalmotorcycle]

10 essentials for every motorcycle road trip
April 24th, 2008 - TD Insurance Press Release - Total Motorcycle - http://www.totalmotorcycle.com


Deciding what to take with you on a road trip can often be a tough decision, since you have such limited space to carry things.

Motorcycle travel expert Dale Coyner, author of The Essential Guide to Motorcycle Travel (Whitehorse Press), has learned the fine art of packing from years of on-the-road experience.


Here are the 10 essentials he says you should pack for every road trip.

1. Socks and underwear. Dale swears by synthetic underwear and socks. “Only a couple of pairs of each is enough to travel around the world!” he states. Wash them in the evening and you’ll have a fresh pair the next day. As for other apparel, Dale dresses in layers to keep carry-on clothing to a minimum.

2. Protective gear. If your riding gear is made of leather or non-waterproof fabric, a good rain suit is important. Pick a suit that is very colourful and reflective. A mesh lining provides an extra layer between you and moisture.

3. Ear plugs. Wind turbulence can cause fatigue and hearing damage, even if you have a quiet helmet. Ear plugs are the answer. They can be custom made or you can pick up inexpensive, good quality foam plugs at just about any drugstore.

4. Paperwork kit. Dale’s kit consists of photocopied back-ups of all his credit cards, driver’s licence, bike registration, personal and vehicle insurance cards and road service card. He stows them on his bike in a waterproof bag, along with a list of emergency names and phone numbers.

5. Cell phone. Always carry a fully charged cell. You just never know when you might need it to call one of those emergency numbers.

6. Spare key. It’s a good idea to carry a spare ignition key. Put it in a reusable plastic bag and secure it in a safe place on your bike or in your gear.

7. Tire repair kit/air pump. Dale rates these as key items to pack because punctures are so common. He advises that it’s best to practise using your repair kit before you need to use it on the road.

8. Tool kit. At the very least, Dale suggests you carry a set of rachet wrenches, metric hex wrench set, a multi-purpose hand tool, screwdrivers and lockable pliers.

Basic electrical necessities could include duct and electrical tape, wire, wire stripper/cutter, zip ties, fuses, spare bulbs, spark plugs, mini voltmeter and a flashlight.

9. First-aid kit. This doesn’t have to be extensive to be effective, according to Dale. His kit contains large sterile bandages, disinfectant (for treating road rash), a length of elastic bandage for a sprain and pain tablets. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-assembled kit.

10. Security. To be on the safe side, Dale recommends carrying a wheel lock and a heavy chain with a lock that loops through both wheels. It prevents your bike from being rolled away and is a visible deterrent to casual thieves.

STOW IT SAFELY
Before you hit the road, make sure your gear is safely packed. That means keeping the weight as low and as close to the centre of the bike as possible.

Whether you’re using leather saddlebags or hard case luggage, each side should weigh roughly the same. The rear rack and tank bag should be left for lighter items. Make sure that any loose items are tightly fastened with bungee cords or net.

Now you’re ready to ride!