Common Mistakes Made and How to Avoid When Planning an Adventure Motorcycle Ride - Part 1 of 2

Navigating the thrilling yet challenging terrain of motorcycle camping demands a blend of experience, intuition, and a keen awareness of common pitfalls. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to not just survive but thrive in the diverse landscapes that beckon the true adventure seeker.

In these 2 part article, we’ll explain the most common 10 motorcycle camping mistakes we’ve encountered personally and from other rider's experiences, and what measures to be taken; transforming them into invaluable lessons for the ardent adventure rider.

1. Over Packing

To embrace the essence of the road, it is critical to acknowledge one of the chief blunders of motorcycle camping: "the tendency to overburden your adventure bike."

This downfall often emerges from a well-intentioned desire to be prepared for every conceivable situation, leading riders to cram their saddlebags to the utmost, thereby unsettling the very balance and handling that is the basics of a joyful riding experience. 

The panacea?

A shift towards prioritizing only the indispensable and adopting a minimalist approach to packing. Opt for gear that's not just functional but versatile, capable of serving more than a single purpose. This is not merely about reducing weight—it's about simplifying your journey, allowing for a more nimble ride. The urge to simply wing it can be strong, but resist it.

Draft a list—let it be a tangible reflection of your thoughts as you envision the journey. This list becomes a tool, not just for tracking preparations and essentials but also for discerning what's superfluous. As you analyze your inventory, you'll likely find items with multi-functional utility, negating the need for additional gear.

2. Ignoring Weight Distribution

When packing your essentials, proper weight distribution is the key to maintaining control while riding your loaded bike. Focus on keeping the weight low and centered, balancing your gear across both sides of the motorcycle to prevent handling issues.

Stash heavy items closer to the center of your bike. This balanced approach ensures your motorcycle remains stable during turns and sudden stops, enhancing safety on the road. Also, ahead of longer trips, we recommend a quick rip around the block, the bumpier the better. You’ll quickly know if you’re balanced and if anything will shift. It’s better to adjust long before the tour than the day you actually begin your journey.

3. Forgetting Paper Maps

It’s a mistake to ignore good ol’ paper maps. Good maps, especially some topographical maps of the area you plan to cover, can not only prevent you from getting lost, but they can also enhance the enjoyment of the trip by helping to locate points of interest, natural features worth seeing etc.

GPS systems are great, but like any device, they can fail or get damaged. At times like that, especially when deep in the backcountry, low-tech countermeasures are handy. Leaving a hard copy of a map showing your anticipated route just adds another layer of comfort, safety and peace of mind. 

4. Failure to Pre-Plan your Route

A successful motorcycle camping trip begins with meticulous route planning. Take the time to study your route, mark potential campsites, and, especially, identify fuel stops. Speaking of fuel…always carry a bit extra in the proper container, just in case. This type of preparation reduces unexpected challenges along the way. Pre-planning the route will give you some idea of the time needed to get to that location.

With that said, it’s always smart to create a flexible itinerary that allows for spontaneous detours and interesting discoveries. Planning your route not only ensures a smoother journey but also enhances your overall adventure by maximizing your time exploring.

5. Not Checking the Weather Forecast and Reports

Nature can be unpredictable, and weather conditions can impact your trip significantly. Keep an eye on weather reports and pack accordingly.

Waterproof gear and layers are your best friends on the road. Carry clothing that can be layered for warmth, and invest in waterproof riding gear that keeps you dry during unexpected rain showers. Many companies like Rev'It! create All weather riding apparels to suit all the seasons you are riding in. Staying comfortable and dry enhances your enjoyment of the journey, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of 2.