Article

Tips to prepare for a long weekend motorcycle trip

It’s 5 p.m. on Friday, and there is nothing between you and that long weekend motorcycle trip – almost nothing, that is.

You still have to pack essentials for an entire weekend onto your bike. When traveling over a long distance, planning ahead can be the difference between time hugging the road and time troubleshooting a problem from the side of it.

Bike check, 1-2-3

Adjust your suspension accordingly if you plan on carrying more luggage than you normally take, especially if you will be riding with someone else. If you are bringing more luggage along, you may want to consider increasing your motorcycle personal effects coverage.

Check out your tires and make sure they are inflated properly and ready for the length of the journey. If you have not had an oil change recently before the trip, do so.

It’s also a good idea to try and pack your motorcycle the night before your trip to make sure everything attaches securely and fits in place.

Stop spots

Mapping out your route may steal some of the “adventure” away from a trip, but it will help ensure you have enough time to enjoy every part of it.

You will need to take breaks eventually. Even if you have driven the route before, make a plan to determine where and when you will need to stop for bathroom breaks, gas fill ups, eat and even take a quick power nap to regain some of your energy.

Packing a GPS – or cell phone with GPS capabilities – can help keep you on time and on track to see everything you want to see.

New terrain, new challenges

Are you in it for a long haul to somewhere new? Brush up on weather and local laws.

Consider the weather in the regions you are traveling to if you need to dress in layers – or if there is an impending storm you may need to find temporary shelter from during the trip.

Trip interruption coverage can reimburse you up $600 for necessary expenses if you are more than 100 miles away from home and the motorcycle is damaged too much to be driven. These expenses include food and lodging, travel expenses and the cost to return the motorcycle home.

Also, while your state may not require a helmet by law, the one you are traveling to might. Wear your helmet at all times to stay safe – and legal.

Tire rehab

Few things will deflate faster than your weekend plans as a tire issue on your motorcycle.

Packing a pump and repair kit can help patch up and pump up potential problems – and most of these pieces of equipment are small enough to not take up precious real estate in your pack.

Road assistance

You’ve hit that open road with nothing but pavement and the great outdoors around you. In the event you need help, make sure you have a lifeline.

Tell someone of where you are going in case you need help. In addition to a charged cell phone, consider a motorcycle policy that has an option for roadside assistance. Talk to an independent agent for more information on roadside assistance coverage.

Plan the next long trip now

Once that bike hits your garage and the trip is over, take stock of all the stuff you packed.

Bring clothes, gear, extra food or other things you didn’t need? Make a note of what ended up being dead weight so you can ride leaner without it the next time.

 

The open road is calling. With a plan for that long weekend trip, you can make the most of your time to do what you came to do – enjoy the ride.

If you want to maximize your coverage options and have extra peace of mind, plan to talk to your independent agent to ensure you have a motorcycle policy that fits your lifestyle.

 

 

Sources

RevZilla

Motorcyclist

 

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation.  By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you.  The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC 2021-134