Traveling the country in a car full of friends is one thing, but embarking on a cross country road trip alone, with nothing but a motorcycle and your thoughts, is a completely different animal. There is something both rebellious and romantic to be said about hitting the open road with the wind in your face as you fly down interstate route 80, taking in all the sights and senses mother nature has to offer. 

Not only will traveling across the country by motorcycle allow you to see the world from a new perspective, but it will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in deep thought and have a soul searching experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. However, as enlightening as it can be, a motorcycle road trip comes with many challenges and can prove to  be a daunting task for a new rider. Luckily there are plenty of tips you can follow to ensure your trip is as hassle-free as possible. 

If you don’t have a motorcycle for your planned road trip, consider easing your journey by exploring the option of Los Angeles motorcycle rentals. Renting a motorcycle in Los Angeles or anywhere you are can provide you with a suitable and well-maintained bike for your adventure, allowing you to focus on the transformative experience of your road trip without worrying about the logistics of motorcycle ownership.

So If you are planning your first solo motorcycle road trip, follow these guidelines to have an adventure of a lifetime. 

Carefully Choose Your Ride

The most important thing when it comes to your first motorcycle road trip is picking the right ride. Remember, you’ll have nothing but motorcycle bags that you pack and your bike, so it is essential to choose a motorcycle that is as comfortable as possible. It is crucial not to get wrapped up in how your bike looks but how it feels. Make sure you pick a motorcycle with soft seats, steady handlebars, and a smooth suspension. 

Pack Light

While traveling by motorcycle has many benefits, you will not have the luxury of extra packing space like you do in a car. In order to save space, it is best to pack light and only bring the essentials like clothes, water, snacks, and emergency supplies. You should also consider bringing disposable products so you dispose of it after you are done and lighten your load. At the same time, there are plenty of luggage carriers like saddlebags that are specifically designed for long motorcycle trips to help you pack conveniently. 

Dress Appropriately

When it comes to motorcycle safety, there is nothing more important than dressing appropriately. Always wear durable riding pants, comfy shirts and sweatshirts, a quality jacket, and a full-face helmet. You should also consider packing elbow and knee guards when traveling on uneven terrain. 

Take Breaks

Riding your motorcycle across the country can take its toll on your body. Not only will sitting on your bike for long periods of time cause saddle sores, but you will need an adequate amount of rest in order to handle your bike safely. Consider stopping at hotels when you can to get some rest as well as pit stops along the way to walk around and stretch your legs. 

Hydration Is Key

Just because your bike is motorized doesn’t mean riding it is not a workout. Taking a motorcycle trip across the country takes an extreme amount of energy, and your body needs to be properly hydrated in order to keep up. According to Healthline, not drinking enough fluids can lead to dizziness, headaches, fatigue, and other issues which could put a damper on your trip. On top of packing water bottles and sports drinks, consider investing in a water backpack that allows you to quench your thirst while you drive. 

Always Be Alert

While riding a motorcycle is an amazing experience, it is also extremely dangerous. Without the protection a car provides, you are more likely to get severely injured if you are in an accident. It is crucial to be on high alert and pay close attention to other drivers every time you hit the road. It is also important to be prepared in case you are involved in an accident. Make sure you have a quality health insurance plan and proper documentation. It is also essential to have your trusted motorcycle accident lawyer’s number handy to assist in your legal needs. 

Take It All In

As long as you follow these tips, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and eye-opening adventure. Remember,road-tripping across the country on a motorcycle is not something everyone gets to experience in their lifetime, so take it all in and enjoy this life changing journey.