Max miles/hours per day

[missilemech]

I know this is a very subjective subject but I would like to get an idea from all of the high mile riders out there what they think a good rule of thumb is for max hours per day for trip planning purposes. Thx.

[cactusjack]

Like you stated, it is going to vary by individual, but my rule of thumb is 450-500 miles a day is long enough. I can do more, and I have - but usually my back and butt are killing me.

[abbo]

Last time I went to Colorado I planned for a 425 mile day. That is about 7hrs with fuel and other stops. Leaving in 2 wks for another trip and backed off to 300 miles. Rather enjoy ride than rush. As you say it is dependent to the riders needs.

[coacha]

Depending on what we are traveling for and what type of road we will be using dictates how long. I have done 1000+ and as little as 250-300 miles in a day on a trip. Depends on a lot of variables.

[missilemech]

Thanks - that helps. If there are any other tid bits of surviving long distance rides I would love to hear them.

[AlabamaNomadRider]

If in a hurry I would try for 450 but not in a hurry 300 would be very good and wouldn't wear you out so much.

[audiogooroo]

I try to keep it 400 miles per day or less. I can certainly do more, but it does wear me out and makes mounting up the next morning less than desirable.

[Sin City Stan]

I can do more but I'm with CJ, 450-500 miles a day is enough. Although it all depends on the variables (wind, twisties, rain, etc.), you can become metally drained without being physically tired. You gotta find your own limits.

[kawgirl]

I agree with the others. 450-500 miles a day is about right. Then again, it depends on whose GPS you're using.

[coacha]

Originally Posted by kawgirl (nckawgirl)

I agree with the others. 450-500 miles a day is about right. Then again, it depends on whose GPS you're using.

We won't mention any names TODD

[Netnorske]

As a frequent multi-day rider, the last being 10 days/3500 miles just last week to the SW Rally, I would say 450 to 500 if its all Interstate. If not....I try to keep it around 300 to 350. Take lots of breaks.....one butt break in between every gas stop is my rule of thumb. Use lip balm liberally when traveling multiple days. I keep a tube in my vest pocket and use it several times throughout the day. You will see why if you don't... ! Sun screen as well if the weather dictates it. Drink more fluids than you think you should....and pack a few energy bars along for good measure. A Beadrider beaded seat is more comfortable on my a$$ than not...even with a Mustang Seat!

Lastly....if you find yourself getting drowsy as I did one day last week....park the bike well off the road in a nice spot and take a short nap in the grass......don't push yourself ! Ride Safe!

[landman]

i plan to average 400 per day.when i rode to alaska i had planned
for an average of 500 because of limited time off.[12 days] and
that proved to be a bit brutal over that many consecutive days.

[ringadingh]

Ive done lots of 400-500 mile days and it all depends on the roads and whether Im alone or not.
If Im by myself I can make very good time since Im not a doddler, I stop for gas and maybe a quick break for a few minutes, but no long lunches. If Im with others its usually a more relaxed pace with longer rest stops.
I know I could do a 700 800 mile day and perhaps even longer if I have a destination to arrive at.

[waterman]

Very similar response to what many people have said. I have done 7-800 miles a day for 2 days in a row. Not much time to enjoy but I needed to get there so I could enjoy. If it's interstate, 500 to 700 miles in good weather is not that bad. Other than that I would plan for 300 to 500 mile days at most. Depends greatly on what there is to see.

As far as tips. I have a beaded seat cover and switch that out on every other tank generally. Gives the rearend something different. Always take a break when you think you need it and not when you need it. If I am trying to make time, I push the first couple of tanks hard and fast with minimal stops and then start to take more breaks.

[missilemech]

Thanks for the fantastic feedback - I have limited time and about 1400 miles in two days I was looking at. Not to mention riding alone across lots of nothingness in Utah and Nevada. I think I will pass on this trip and use the dreaded airlines (I hate flying in the bus ) but I think I would be taking a lot of risks with the distance and lack of time for this trip.

But my buddy and I still have to get our stamps at the Harley dealerships in Colorado and Wyoming so we will do that trip middle of next month and at a decent pace so we can enjoy the trip.

Thanks all!!