Bill Muneio

The author's bike, in violation of Point #2

By Phil Herring
Seattle Motorcycle Examiner

Mistakes made.  Lessons learned.  Results published.  Now you have no excuses.

I can ride from LA to NY in… 3 days. Touring is expensive in both time and money, so it’s easy to be too ambitious about the time required to get from Point A to G.  You ride for the experiences, memories, and sensations, so be sure to allow some time for those, too.  Don’t push your itinerary too hard.

Did you pack my tux? Pack clothes, then cut what you packed by 50%.  Do laundry on the road or if it suits you, sneak an extra day or two from those socks. Less stuff makes your bike more fun to ride and your trip a lot easier.

Rain gear?  But it’s summer? Fill your now-half empty bags with good rain gear.  Always remember this simple rule:  If you bring rain gear it won’t rain.  Don’t, and it will pour like a fire hose.  You’ve been warned.

Nah, I’ll replace the tires (or chain or oil or brake pads) when I get back home. You’ll ride better — and sleep better at night — if you replace anything on your bike that’s nearing the end of its life, before you leave.

Sure I’m tired, but our reservation is 150 miles down the road. If you can avoid it, don’t make reservations for motels or campgrounds.  (Note: don’t try this in popular tourist areas.)  Target a few possible destinations for appropriate facilities, then ride as much, as little, or in any direction, you choose.  Don’t let your trip be dictated by the AAA Lodging Guide.

Bonus mistake: Dammit, this is what we planned so this is what we’re going to do! After 3,900 miles my 5,000 mile tour came to an abrupt end with a family medical emergency back home.  Everybody is fine, but it’s an important reminder that plans can change suddenly.  Life, like touring, is a journey.  Go with the flow.

Other articles in this series:
Rating summer motorcycle gear
Motorcycling Jackson Hole south through the Rockies
US 12: West’s best motorcycle road?
When brakes break

5,000 mile ride starts tomorrowTop 5 motorcycle touring mistakes.