Nature is full of beauty to explore. When planning a motorcycle trip, many tools and considerations can help you plan your trip seamlessly. Focus your plan on what you need and want. Planning a motorcycle trip is your gateway to the world — the freedom of the open road, the beauty of nature, the sensation of being on two wheels, and a chance to explore new places and all they have to offer.
Whether you are gearing up for a cross-country motorcycle trip or a joy ride on your nearest set of back roads, a little planning will pay off near the end when you’ll want your ride to be as smooth, enjoyable, and safe as can be. This guide will help you learn how to plan a motorcycle route, how to gear up for your journey, and how to stay safe on the road.
Pick The Appropriate Motorcycle For Your Journey
Choosing the right bike is the first part of any motorcycle trip planning. Not every bike is built for long-haul trips. Comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability are key when traveling cross country or long distance on a motorcycle.
Best Motorcycles for a Cross-Country Trip:
- Cruiser Motorcycles: Harley-Davidson Softail, Indian Chief
- Best Adventure Bikes: BMW GS Series, Yamaha Tenere 700
- Sport-Touring: Kawasaki Concours, Yamaha FJR1300
If you want to rent a bike, you can plan your trip with a Harley travel planner so you can find dealers that provide rentals as well as maintenance.
Plan Your Motorcycle Route
Knowing your route beforehand helps ensure you’ll take the best roads while accommodating fuel stops, lodging, and food breaks. Here’s how to plan a motorcycle route effectively:
Tips for Route Planning:
- Apps like Google Maps, REVER, or Harley Ride Planner help you plan your route.
- Select scenic routes instead of highways to make the motorcycle road trip for beginners more enjoyable.
How far can you travel on a tank?
Before leaving, check on road conditions, closures, and weather forecasts.
- Best Cross-Country Views to Take on a Motorcycle Ride:
- Route 66 (USA) – American highway experience.
- Blue Ridge Parkway (USA) — Serpentine roads & beautiful scenery
- Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA) – Scenic ocean views.
- Great Ocean Road (Australia) – One of the prettiest coastal rides
Travel Smart: The Usual Gear & Gear
A cross-country motorcycle ride means packing light but packing efficiently. Here are the must-have items:
Riding Gear:
- Helmet — A full-face helmet will provide the highest level of safety.
- Jacket & Pants – Get abrasion-resistant, weatherproof gear.
- Gloves & Boots – For gripping and protection; extremely important.
Essential Accessories:
- Saddlebags or a Tank Bag – Keep your stuff secure and organized.
- NAVIGATION SYSTEM – GPS or phone holder for easy directions
- Power Bank & Chargers – Perfect for charging when roaming through extended rides.
- Rain Gear – You never know with the weather, so be prepared.
Get Ready for Safety & Emergencies
Motorcycle Safety Before Anything Else On Your Road Trip Adventure
Safety Checklist:
- Check for pre-ride inspection (tires, brakes, oil, lights).
- Take a first aid kit and a basic tool kit with you.
- Save for emergencies and sign up for roadside assistance.
- Make sure you have a spare key if you lose your key during the trip.
Emergency Contact Plan:
Tell a friend or family member your itinerary.
- Be sure to have emergency contact numbers on speed dial.
- Learn how to do some basic motorcycle repairs (fix a flat, chain maintenance).
Find the Best Accommodations
Finding a place to stay during your motorcycle trip across America can make a big difference.
Accommodation Options:
- Hotels & Motels – Good comfort, but can get costly.
- Camping Sites – A great choice for the adventurous.
- Airbnb & Motorcycle Friendly Inns – Some pretty unique stays with better amenities.
- Hostels & Biker Lodges – Inexpensive and great for socialising.
To find motorcycle-friendly accommodations on the way, borrow from the Harley travel guide apps.
Fuel Management & Budget Planning
To run out of gas in the middle of nowhere — and it’s a nightmare! Fuel is key for anyone, but even more so for a cross-country motorcycle trip.
- Fuel & Budget Management Tips:
- Calculate your bike’s MPG (Miles per Gallon) to determine how much fuel you will need.
- Gas station stops every 100–150 miles.
- Allocate a daily budget for fuel, food, and lodging.
- Bring cash for remote areas where cards may not work.
- Eat Right & Stay Hydrated
- Long rides can be quite taxing to the body, so it is important to stay on top of nutrition and hydration.
- Healthy Eating Tips:
- Take snacks: nuts, protein bars, dried fruits.
- Bring a hydration pack or a reusable water bottle.
- Visit locally owned diners to experience regional fare.
- Steer clear of too much caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate and tire you out.
- Avoid Fatigue: Ride Comfortably
Fatigue will quickly turn your motorcycle road trip for beginners into a hellish experience. Here’s how to travel in comfort:
- Break the routine every hour, stretch, and walk around.
- Use a seat cushion or gel pad for added comfort.
- Unless you plan on only riding short distances, consider exploring options for cruise control or throttle locks.
- If you’re too tired, then don’t force it—rest and resume.
Conclusion
With the right motorcycle cross-country route, equipment, and safety plan, plus accommodations, you’re set for an epic ride! So pack wisely, travel safely, and enjoy each experience.
Planning a motorcycle trip is the key to a successful journey, but the effort is worth it with those open roads, beautiful views, and precious memories. So whether you’re going on a cross-country motorcycling adventure or just a weekend road trip, these tips will make sure your ride is smooth and you have a good time.
FAQS
How do I plan a motorcycle route for a cross-country trip?
You can use route-planning apps such as Google Maps, REVER, or Harley Ride Planner to plot scenic drives, gas stops, and overnight accommodations along the route.
What is the best long-distance road trip motorcycle?
Tourer bikes, like the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide or Honda Gold Wing, do wonders for comfort, while adventure bikes like the BMW GS Series offer diversity.
If you want to know how often to take breaks on a long motorcycle road trip, here you go.
If you are reading for long hours, take a break after every 1-2 hours to avoid fatigue, hydrate, and stretch your muscles.
What must-have gear do I need to pack for a cross-country motorcycle trip?
Helmet, gloves, riding jacket, tool kit, rain gear, hydration pack, GPS, phone charger, first aid kit.
What is the best motorcycle for a long road trip?
Wear safety gear, inspect your bike before each ride, follow speed limits, and keep an emergency contact in your phone.
How much money should I save for a motorcycle trip?
Camp rather than stay in hotels, join gas rewards programs, bring your own food, and set a daily budget.
