Rules of the trip
Big rides require discipline
The following are rules and ideas that ensure a smooth ride for one person or several. In no particular order…
1. All motorcycles must have new or newer tires that have more than enough tread life to make it for the trip. The right replacement tire might be hard to find and most motorcycle shops are closed on Sundays and Mondays.
2. All motorcycles must be in a state of good working condition. We want to minimize the suprises.
3. No installation of new parts or mods during the ride. If it become complicated you risk holding up the group or being left behind.
4. Have a road trip buddy. You can keep an eye on each other. In larger groups it can be quite easy to lose sight of one rider.
5. Passing another motorcyclist in your group must be done as safe as possible. Wave, catch their attention, etc. Let them know you are going to pass and wait for the wave. Showing them ‘tire’ is not adequate.
6. Be more patient and accommodating than you normally are. Travelling with others can have times of frustration. It doesn’t help escalating the situation. At the end of the day all will be forgotten.
7. Wear proper gear. You’re about to embark on the long ride. Be prepared for the worst. Full face helmet, Jacket, Pants, Back Protector, Boots, Gloves.
8. PM Fillups. Always fuel up your motorcycle at the end of the day. Alot of time is wasted in the morning getting gas. This is a big time saver especially when you have a long day ahead.
9. The ride leader or your riding buddy should have your emergency contact information.
10. Skip lunch! Opt for two breaks instead. Avoid the afternoon lull by not having a big lunch. Not only will you feel better but you’ll be able to ride longer.
11. Don’t take your breaks at gas stations. Fill up, grab a snack and move on. You are on a big ride and seeing great places. Take the break at a gorgeous view point or rest stop.
This is the everything-and-kitchen-sink list.
I don’t always take all of this but I use it to make sure I have what I need.
- Rain Gear
- Heated Gear
- Rain/Winter Gloves
- Tool Kit/Set of Tools
- Tire Repair Kit
- Chain Lube
- Maps
- Pledge & Cloth (Visor Cleaner)
- Camera (ensure memory card is in!)
- Camera Charger
- Camera Lens Cleaner
- GoPro (ensure memory card is in!)
- GoPro Charger
- iPhone Charger
- Tablet/Laptop
- Tablet/Laptop Charger
- Passport
- Cash
- Motorcycle Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Hearing Protect/ CustomEarplugs
- US Sim Card & Paperclip
- Emergency Contact Information
- Sunscreen
- Sunscreen Lip Balm
- Sunglasses
- Pen/Paper
- Knife
- Tshirts
- Sweater
- Underwear
- Socks
- Neck wrap
- Bathing suit
- Clothes for before/after ride
- Sandals or Shoes
- Toothbrush
- Floss
- Deodorant
- Bar of Soap
- Contacts/Glasses
- Bag of Almonds
- Sunscreen & Sunscreen Lip Balm
- Protein Bar, Nuts, etc for a snack
You can also use this generic list
Here is what I am currently riding and using for all my rides.
What I wear.
Scorpion EXO 1100
Scorpion EXO 1100 – Drop down shaded visor is amazing. Lighter than the previous EXO. Nice features for a great price.
Sena SMH10-10 Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset/Intercom
Pairs with your smartphone bluetooth so you can chat with others or listen to music wirelessly.
DBblocker earplugs
Custom fit ear plugs are the best way to go. Specifically made for your ear and reduces decibels to acceptable levels. You can still hear what is around you. I bought the All Sport set with the headset.
Venture Heated Jacket
A must for any rider. You’ll be cold far often than being hot. It certainly is a difference maker with unexpected cold weather.
Cooling Vest
For those times your riding in hot weather this will help. It is essentially a slow release sponge. Soak and it slowly releases it’s moisture. On hot days it will dry out fast.
Eddie Bauer Rain/Wind Jacket
This is a 3/4 quarter length jacket so my legs are exposed. It is much easier to manage than a 1pc rain suit and takes up less storage. It reverse folds up into a nice pouch for easy storage.
Dianese Back Protector
Separate back protectors provide more protection and help with posture.
10 Tips for Motorcycle Group Riding
Alpinestars Two Piece perforated leathers
Nice suit and fits my tall body well. I went for perforated to keep the air flow.
Held Evo Thrux Gloves
The best gloves I’ve ever owned. Comfortable, kangaroo leather, and has a small rain squeegee on the left fore finger.
Sidi ST air boots
Sidi is one of the best and complex boots you can buy. Very comfortable. I went with perforated boots as the airflow is nice and it is never too cold. On wet rides these boots will dry out FAST.
The Motorcycle
2011 Kawasaki ZX10R – 28,000kms on the odometer
On the Motorcycle
AMS bars for a more relaxed ride. Great for touring, still great for track riding. No forward riding position.
Navigon GPS (iPhone app) – Works without using data and integrates with your music library on your iPhone. nice!
iPhone mount: from gpscity.ca
Throttle Lock – So simple and yet so effective.
Frame Sliders
Ventura Rack – Excellent quality and easy tail bag storage.
Cortech Tail Luggage & Dry Bag – Quick and easy to put on and take off. Rock Straps for ties downs.
Michelin Tires – Michelin Pilot Power 3 Front, Michelin Pilot Road 4 Rear. Dunlop Q3+ for track.
USB plugin to charge my phone as it is my GPS
