Tips and tricks for those long road trips

[chucks1911]

Planning a couple of multi day road trips this year. Looking for things to make it easier and more comfortable.

I'll start off with a couple of things that I learned last year from going to Nightmares fall rally.

1) Take a folding chair along. It's a lot more comfortable sitting in one when socializing outside the hotel in the evenings.
2) Take rags or towels of your own along for cleaning the bike everyday.

So, what do you have to add to the list?

[timebandit]

Make sure that there is a store near the destination that sells "cold beer" http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif
Gas -up before stopping for the night so you can get an early take off in the morning.

[socwkbiker]

Pack rain gear regardless of where you're going. You never know.

[usranger74]

Planning a couple of multi day road trips this year. Looking for things to make it easier and more comfortable.

I'll start off with a couple of things that I learned last year from going to Nightmares fall rally.

1) Take a folding chair along. It's a lot more comfortable sitting in one when socializing outside the hotel in the evenings.
2) Take rags or towels of your own along for cleaning the bike everyday.

So, what do you have to add to the list?

Been looking for a folding chair that will work with MC tips - any suggestions?

[Top Cat]

Tire patch kit and compressor.

[AlabamaNomadRider]

Set of metric tools
At least a slotted screwdriver and philips head
Wirepliers

[chucks1911]

Planning a couple of multi day road trips this year. Looking for things to make it easier and more comfortable.

I'll start off with a couple of things that I learned last year from going to Nightmares fall rally.

1) Take a folding chair along. It's a lot more comfortable sitting in one when socializing outside the hotel in the evenings.
2) Take rags or towels of your own along for cleaning the bike everyday.

So, what do you have to add to the list?

Been looking for a folding chair that will work with MC tips - any suggestions?

Bill,
I'm thinking about those collapsible ones that fit in those cigar like sleeves. Like you can get a wally world for around $20. They are kind of long, but I think that I can figure a location to attach it so that it wont reach out and grab anything as I'm rolling down the road. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[sas]

Let's not forget a quality first aid kit, guys. Like King Muckety Muck said about rainsuits....you never know!

[AlabamaNomadRider]

I thought about those chairs that you buy at Wal-Mart. Once they are folded up they can be stored against the backrest if you travel alone. Tie it down good and go.

The first aid kit a a great idea Sas.

[usranger74]

Chuck
Gene

Take a look.

http://www.bluemaxinc.com/productsaddlebagchair.htm

[cactusjack]

*Carry a roll of toilet paper. It could come in handy.
*Carry a small, bright flashlight.
*Carry a spare set of keys (I have separate keys for bike and tourpak) and keep them someplace you can get at them without needing a key.

[rickyboy]

Never really thought about carrying furniture or a chair, but have you thought about something like this? A portable stadium seat. Made for sitting in a bleacher/grandstand setting.They're soft a fold up and could easily fit in a tour pak, or in a rear seating area. Or maybe on the lid of your tour pak/trunk. Just an idea.

[skeeter]

Wet wipes in addendum to the TP.
bottled water
lighter

take a break or even nap if your sleepy or tired,even if you just took a break. get there

[Netnorske]

Always travel with a current AAA RV Plus card.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif. Pack lots of earplugs as they really help ease the fatique of long rides. Also some engine guard chaps will help alleviate leg fatique by providing a block from the constant wind force. Some sort of throttle lock is a must-have, can't do without it item. A decent GPS is a Godsend. Chapstick....liberal daily use. Personally speaking, Best Western, Super 8 and me are tight...no folding chair needed... ;).

Lastly, there's usually always a bottle of good sippin' stuff in my tour pack for when the riding is over for the day.... :) http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif.

[ruruson1]

I always carry tools, usually for the Harley's I ride with. Last ling trip I went on had to work on the Harley twice. The nomad and the Goldwing never broke down. Toilet Paper is a wonderful thing to carry. Makes great rag for cleaning glasses, lights, seat, oil, and ya know when your out in the middle of no where thats when it will hit you.

[cajun2wheels]

Medicated powder for your butt.Really helps on those hot days.I also carry two 33 oz camp stove fuel aluminum bottles full of gas strapped securely in my saddle bag just in case.Along with my ample tool bag I carry wire,cable ties,tape,and 550 lb test parachute cord.A leatherman multitool can come in handy also.

[bobhamlin]

If your sweetie is going:


Very clearly define storage space allocation, and be a hard-nose. Angie has a saddle-bag and 2/3s of the Kuryakin Full Dresser suitcase (It has 3 internal sections). [/*:m:3te7k4cb]
Do not comment on anything that she decides to take--it is her space.[/*:m:3te7k4cb]
If she wants to shop, you mail stuff home.[/*:m:3te7k4cb]

[schoeney]

We had a checklist for trips posted at one time but I couldnt find it. Here is a link to one that Elvis posted in the ride section.

http://micapeak.com/checklists/ccard.html

Can of pledge/plexus,clear riding glasses, and roll of duct tape.

Rule of thumb on clothing/gear. Prepare for all conditions (Rain, cold, heat, wind, nite dayetc).

Cover your bike at night to keep the dew off the seat and the less than honest people guessing. A $20 Walmart cover is best....thieves will go after the more expensive looking package before the cheaper one.

Don't deprive yourself of sleep.

Don't drink until you are off the road for the day. Keep this in mind when planning your hotel/campsite. You will want to be within walking distance of your favorite watering hole.

Have a handy place to store your cell phone + wallet+ because you will be digging for them at gas stops.

I try to keep my group at 4 bikes or less just to keep food + gas+ stops simple and together on the road. Agree on a procedure (meeting place, length of time, who to call,etc) if you get separated before you start the ride.

Know your riding partners skill and endurance limits so no one is struglling.

Don't rush.

Check tires at least visually and a kick at every stop.

Park in well lit area. Many hotels will let you park under the entry awning/roof.

Multi day rides are my favorite part of owning my bike. I just wish I could do it more often.

Enjoy!

[ndbigfish]

This is the list I use all the time. The original came from Gadget's site.

[bigsid1]

http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Tripod-Chair/product/10210131/-1626008 Try this chair. I used it in virginia at the regional rally. I strapped it to my luggage rack.

[oldbikers]

I have carried one of those fold up chair like Walmart sells for many miles but Chuck I always put it on the back seat and tied it down to the back rest that you don't have, I layed mine down across the seat with no problem but I have seen them standing up with the back rest. One thing that I haven't seen on any of these list is bungee cords I won't crank my bike with them in my saddle bag.

[ringadingh]

I carry booster cables, and a multi meter, they both have come in handy a couple times so far.

[dank]

I carry them , but the Nomad and my Honda have been so reliable I find I rarely need tools while traveling. (I do any upcoming required maintenance before I leave.) But the two essentials for a comfortable multi-day ride that nobody has mentioned are:

#1.....A bottle of ADVIL

and sunscreen.

I use those every trip.

[vulcans2]

Carry a can of spray cleaner and some microfiber cloths for wiping the dust off the bike and cleaning the windshield each evening.

If you don't carry cleaning rags, ask the hotel desk clerk, if you're staying at a motel, for some cleaning rags. I always do that, and I've never been turned down. They love it when you don't use their towels to clean the road splooge off your bike.

When on a road trip, we always try to get up, have coffee, then pack up and hit the road right off. That way we can get in at least a couple hours on the road before stopping for breakfast and to top off the tank. After that we stop often, about once every hours. Helps to fend off fatigue.

Don't carry more stuff than you need. We did that at first and ended up mailing a lot of stuff home. You can stop at a laundromat every few days to wash your dirty clothes.

Don't forget your camera.

Check your tires daily. Never know what you may have run over.

[coacha]

What is this cleaning you speak of? Todd mentioned that to me once and I couldn't understand him. :)

I take tools, wipes, flashlight, all the normal stuff. I pull a trailer on most long trips so I have a lot of stuff in there: Margaritta maker (AC/DC), stove, cooking stuff, etc. Always fuel up before I take the bike off the road for the night if we have a planned ride in the morning.

[usranger74]

Add to the list, sunscreen and chap stick

If I were to carry a metric socket set, what sizes would I take?

[cactusjack]

Add to the list, sunscreen and chap stick

If I were to carry a metric socket set, what sizes would I take?

Basic set? 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 13mm, 17mm
Don't forget metric hex wrenches

I carry the Roadtech M3 kit from Cruz tools:

http://www.cruztools.com/products/kitsmetric.html

[aldridgekennedy]

Always travel with an MRE (meal ready to eat). Not only do you have a hot meal when you need it, but inside the pack are TP, matches (water proof) and a host of other goodies. It takes up VERY little room. You can buy them at virtually any army surplus store of if you have the proper ID most commisaries.

I've been starnded before (car not bike) and this was a lifesaver.

[jestephens]

Extra Bunjee Cords!!
http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[usranger74]

Hand gun and if the caliber does not start with .4, leave it at home http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[sly]

CA$H.... gas, food, drink, drink & more drink... tolls, rally t-shirts ::) http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif and good ol' times. Plus most of what we've talked about.

[Top Cat]

Hand gun and if the caliber does not start with .4, leave it at home http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

I have to dissagree. The best caliber gun is the one you have with you when trouble breaks out. ;)

[nomadbehappy]

Most things have already been mentioned, but two things I always do are:
1. Stop every two hours and stretch the legs for 15 minutes, have a drink of water and get gas whether you think you need it yet or not!!
2. Always let someone know your itinerary and have a set time to check in by so the person doesn't worry unnecessarily.

oh yeah and most importantly, take you patience and sense of humour :-)

[Top Cat]

Most things have already been mentioned, but two things I always do are:
1. Stop every two hours and stretch the legs for 15 minutes, have a drink of water and get gas whether you think you need it yet or not!!
2. Always let someone know your itinerary and have a set time to check in by so the person doesn't worry unnecessarily.

oh yeah and most importantly, take your patience and sense of humour :-)

I think the one taking Patience is oldbones http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif (that's his wife's name)

[aldridgekennedy]

USRANGER 74

I only regret i didn't list it first. I don't go anywhere w/o my 1911. (45acp of course)

[04kaw1500]

Take a friend and I all ways take my best friend Mr Taurus 709 slim 9mm .Don't foreget the monkey butt powder.

[Cajunrider]

I carry:
Tire plugs, plug tools, & slime compressor
1/4" drive and metric sockets
+ and - screwdrivers
channel lock pliers
metric hex wrenches
flashlight
extra fuses
couple of feet of different gauge wire
spare headlight bulbs
couple of flares
couple of rags
electrical tape
rain suits
chap stick
sun block
gps
ziploc bag with excedrin migraine, floss, small eyewash kit, etc.
digital camera
tire gauge
rtv
aluminum side stand plate
2 bottles of water
other things I can't think of now

[chucks1911]

There is some really good stuff in here.

Learned the hard way about the chapstick and sunscreen http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[nomadtom69]

The main thing about the weapon of choice is that you can hit what you aim at when you need to whether it be a 9mm 45acp or 410 derringer

[Top Cat]

Mitch, I think they ment what you carry on the bike, not what you carry in your truck. ;)

[Kawhead]

Hand gun and if the caliber does not start with .4, leave it at home http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gifTravel with a couple somebodies to hand it of to in case something crazy or unexpected happens like if you hit a deer or something, or LEO will get it.

[Netnorske]

Hand gun and if the caliber does not start with .4, leave it at home http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gifTravel with a couple somebodies to hand it of to in case something crazy or unexpected happens like if you hit a deer or something, or LEO will get it.

This sounds like the true voice of experience talking.... ;) http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif....

[hammer]

I take old socks and throw 'em out at the end of the day after using them to clean off really ugly crap. New ones are for the ride home. Sometimes I take a sawed off hockey stick with me. That blade is deadly over 20 feet if you are good with one. It's a Canadian thing.
Hockey tape too, it works like duct tape sorta.

Oh, and a list of WalMarts in my GPS so you can get anything you need that you forgot.
Cash, my spare credit card and key hidden on the bike.

[paul]

Looks like the list is about complete. But, I have one more idea that was given me by an old road warrior. Walmart is a great idea and we use them often, but also look for a Good Will or similar outfit when moving through different towns. Many things one might need at rediculous low prices. Extra clothing in case of sudden cold snap, etc. Also, good things to use for bike rags, and so cheap as to be disposable.

[fish]

after Chips has all her stuff packed I'm glad if I have a spare pocket for a tooth brush and a clean thong http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif ;)

seriously, I don't think I heard a tooth brush mentioned :-/

[flavor]

If you're not sure of food stops on back roads.....peanut butter, some bread and honey. No refrigeration needed.

[toxictavrn]

2) Take rags or towels of your own along for cleaning the bike everyday.



what! hell no, my bike gets its annual bath in april, right now its sporting 10k+ miles of last years grunge! just the way i like it! but i wanted to throw out 1 thing i do, i bring with me on trips is a small squirt bottle with windex and a towel to clean the windshield, hey a mans gotta see where you going right!

[usranger74]

Your ICE Notification x 2. One on you and one on the bike where an LEO would look if you are "out" of it.

[chucks1911]

Your ICE Notification x 2. One on you and one on the bike where an LEO would look if you are "out" of it.

What is this Bill?

[Top Cat]

Your ICE Notification x 2. One on you and one on the bike where an LEO would look if you are "out" of it.

What is this Bill?

It is a form called In Case of Emergency. It list contacts phone numbers, blood type next of kin etc.

[usranger74]

TC pegged it.

In Case of Emergency (ICE)

Dr. Name and Phone #
Who to contact - Name and # (my case it is my wife, followed by my Son)
All medications
Any medical conditions

[Kawhead]

TC pegged it.

In Case of Emergency (ICE)

Dr. Name and Phone #
Who to contact - Name and # (my case it is my wife, followed by my Son)
All medications
Any medical conditions




You forgot Bail Bondsman. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[usranger74]

I all so forgot - Heath Insurance (Name and Policy #)

[cactusjack]

I carry a small plastic box with a couple of 1157 bulbs, an 1156, a headlight, an H3 bulb for my driving lights and a few spare fuses in it.

[Top Cat]

After reading all the stuff you guys carry I won't need to bring a damn thing to the National. It seems everyone else has me covered. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[Kawhead]

After reading all the stuff you guys carry I won't need to bring a damn thing to the National. It seems everyone else has me covered. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gifI godda brother-in-law thats been doing that for 52 yrs and he ain't had a problem yet. http://s2.images.proboards.com/cheesy.gif My wife wont let me put him outa everybodies misery either, an if i do she'll rat me out t the man. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[Dave]

Geez you guys carry a lot of stuff. I just carry a AAA card and the tool kit that came with my bike. I might add one of these next time I'm at a store that sells them.

http://www.blackanddecker.com/power-tools/RRW100.aspx

[usranger74]

I carry a small plastic box with a couple of 1157 bulbs, an 1156, a headlight, an H3 bulb for my driving lights and a few spare fuses in it.

At the risk of being called "lazy", I will ask.

Where do the 1157 and 1156 bulbs go?

Go you gunslingers, go ahead and say it - I am to lazy to look it up http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[Top Cat]

Turn signals and tail light you lazy ass. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[caper]

Great Tips....now I need a trailer for my stuff :):)...........I am kidding but some good tips,some I do now and some I haven't thought of. Great sight...and at the nationals there will be a check to see just who is prepared LOL

[usranger74]

Turn signals and tail light you lazy ass. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

True http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[ballast]

Geez you guys carry a lot of stuff. I just carry a AAA card and the tool kit that came with my bike. I might add one of these next time I'm at a store that sells them.

http://www.blackanddecker.com/power-tools/RRW100.aspx

Got one for Christmas. It is bulky and has no clearance. There are hardly any places on the bike you could use it.

[Sin City Stan]

What is this Bill?

It is a form called In Case of Emergency. It list contacts phone numbers, blood type next of kin etc.

It does not hurt to program an ICE number in your cell phone. Emergency responders look for this if they can't find anything else.

[cactusjack]

Turn signals and tail light you lazy ass. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[drno]

I carry: Current full featured AmA card with bike coverage for tow, fuel ect, tire patch kit, aircompressor, toilet paper, first aid kit, wrenchs and sockets for my bikes bolt sizes, allen wrench kit, pliers, wire cutters, box cutter, tire guage, lots of zipties, chapstick, a few rags, rain gear, role of velcro strapping that is cuttable, 4 large orange garbage bags (makes a great emerg rain suit or luggage cover if ness) 4 regular gabage bags. Then there is some more stuff.... Everything I carry is becasue I or someone else needed it on the road at one time.

[hammer]

PrepH because it takes wrinkles out of the saddle? Really!!!

[lonewolf]

didnt see that anybody mentioned this, but with the addition to alot of the before mentioned, i carry an extra pair of sunglasses. Had a big rig blow mine off me one time, ran over by the car behind me, pulled over and got out my spare pair .

[fish]

without an extra pair of prescription glasses you screwed if something happens to the first pair.

[sly]

If you rode an American made bike (will not mention the braHD) ...... you would have to bring a spare ride http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif Just kidding http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif

[cactusjack]

without an extra pair of prescription glasses you screwed if something happens to the first pair.

I wear contacts and always travel with a spare pair. I also carry 2-3 pairs of sunglasses.

[sly]

without an extra pair of prescription glasses you screwed if something happens to the first pair.

I wear contacts and always travel with a spare pair. I also carry 2-3 pairs of sunglasses.

Me too, blind as a bat without... always have a few pair...

[Loafer]

Where do you guys put all that stuff? No one has said anything about clothes.

[usranger74]

Where do you guys put all that stuff? No one has said anything about clothes.

I change once a week with new stuff bought at Wally World http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[ndbigfish]

If you rode an American made bike (will not mention the braHD) ...... you would have to bring a spare ride http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif Just kidding http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif

Now I know why my alternate brand ridin friends bring me along. ;) http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[cactusjack]

Where do you guys put all that stuff? No one has said anything about clothes.

I have a T-Bags Dresser bag that sits on the passenger seat between the arms of the tourpak passenger backrest for clothes, etc.

I travel solo, so this won't work for everyone.

[skeeter]

Even if I talk to Him before I go, I am always presented with the opportunity to thank God for the experience, the beauty, and even His help along the way.

[nomadtom69]

Good co-pilot to have

[usranger74]

We were talking chairs on this post. I sat in one of these yesterday

http://www.integrityoutdoorbrands.com/directors-chairs/xpress-lounger.htm

Very comfortable and sturdy. It packs up nicely and for a solo rider I don't think there would be a problem in storing in.

I have not pulled the trigger yet, but I am seriously thinking about it. Like I said, very comfortable.

[carolinakid1]

A few things I do not believe were mentioned:
Visine for dry eyes, Insect Repellant, Small travel sewing kit, Whistle, Cell phone and ac/dc chargers, Compass, Extra doo rags, Small magnet, Locktite, Small Mirror, Safety Pins, Protein bars and trail mix, extra gloves, small umbrella, waterless hand cleaner, prescriptions in original containers, paper and pencil/pen, led flashlight and batteries

[Top Cat]

Anybody know where I can buy a 260'x8'pull behind trailer? ::)

[carolinakid1]

Agreed, with everything mentioned, one needs a support vehicle to just haul all of the stuff.

[skeeter]

I'm thinking about throwing caution to the wind, trusting in my maker and just letting it happen...




except for the toilet paper. Just becuz.