Motorcycle Touring And Tours

Motorcycle touring is more about the journey than the destination…more about the freedom of the open road than how many miles you log…more about exploration than achievement…more about your bucket list than a to-do list.

There’s something thrilling about traveling through unknown territory on a motorcycle, instead of in a car. On motorcycle tours, you can explore beautiful landscapes, visit historical sites, and discover unique locations. If you’re on a group motorcycle tour, with friends or strangers, you can strengthen relationships and form new bonds.

Below is an overview of motorcycle touring and tours, with tips that can help ensure that your trip is a safe and happy one.

Types Of Motorcycle Touring
The most popular types of motorcycle touring include:

  • day tours
  • overnight tours
  • guided tours (organized tours with a guide who leads a group of riders, often with a pre-determined route and accommodations)
  • self-guided tours (you plan the route, choose the points of interest, book your accommodations, and take care of all of the details of the tour)
  • adventure or dual-sport tours (these require motorcycles designed for both on-road and off-road travel, and they might involve riding on gravel, dirt roads, or even trails)

Motorcycle Touring Gear and Equipment
Because you’ll be on your bike for days on end when you’re touring, you’ll want to make sure that you’re prepared:

  • choose or rent a type of motorcycle that’s designed for long-distance travel and built for comfort
  • buy or rent quality, comfortable riding gear (helmet, gloves, boots, jacket, and pants)
  • take weather-specific motorcycle clothing with you (waterproof gear for rain, thermal or heated gear for cold weather, and ventilated gear for hot climates)
  • equip yourself with a good GPS system, maps, and/or a smartphone app (this is especially important if you’re on a self-guided tour or trying a new route)
  • get saddlebags, tail bags, tank bags, and/or panniers that have enough storage space to carry what you’ll need for your tour
  • pack an emergency motorcycle kit (complete with basic tools, spare parts, a tire repair kit, and first aid supplies)

Planning For Motorcycle Touring
If you plan to tour without a guide or group, you’ll need to take care of all of the details. Choose a touring route that’s not only scenic or interesting, but also has good road conditions and is appropriate for your skill level.

In advance of your trip, it’s a good idea to make reservations (for hotels, motels, Airbnb’s, campgrounds and activities or events), especially during peak riding seasons.

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