How to prepare for a motorcycle road trip
Spring is just around the corner, and with it, the promise of longer days, milder temperatures and the thrill of getting out on the open road.
Whether you’re new to motorcycling or a seasoned biker, it’s always good to plan ahead and properly prepare your motorcycle for each trip, avoiding any last-minute frustrations or disappointments, especially if your bike’s been out of action throughout the colder months.
So, whether you’re looking forward to a weekend getaway, a cross-country adventure, or you just want to blow the cobwebs away, preparing yourself, and your bike, will help you avoid unexpected problems no matter how long or short your journey.
Here at CTEK, we know the most important part of any journey is safety. Some careful preparation before you set off will ensure you have a comfortable, enjoyable - and most importantly - safe ride.
We’ve prepared some top tips to help make sure your motorbike is in the best possible condition, allowing you to get out on that trip whenever you choose.
1. Check Your Bike
Before hitting the road, you’ll want to thoroughly check your motorcycle. Start with the basics - check your tyre pressure, brake pads, and fluid levels (oil, coolant, and brake fluid). Make sure that your lights, indicators, and horn are working properly. A well-maintained bike ensures a safer, smoother ride and minimises the risk of breakdowns during your trip.
2. Check your battery
Motorcycle batteries can lose charge during periods of inactivity, or if the bike is only used for shorter, infrequent trips. So, if your bike has been stored for a while, or your journeys tend to be fairly short, some battery maintenance is essential. Keeping your battery charged on a regular basis enhances your battery’s performance and can also extend the life of your battery.
CTEK has a range of high-quality battery chargers to suit the needs of every motorcyclist. With advanced technology, and superior safety features, a CTEK charger will optimise your battery’s performance to ensure your bike starts up first time, every time. We provide expert, intelligent charging solutions, with easy-to-read displays, efficient charging and protection from over charging, even when left plugged in.
Keep your motorcycle battery in peak condition with one of our dedicated chargers, such as the CT5 POWERSPORT, which is designed specifically to charge and maintain powersport batteries – check out its features on our web site CT5 POWERSPORT.
Alternatively, the CTEK MXS 3.8 can work for your motorcycle and your car. This 7-step battery charger is suitable for lead-acid batteries from 1.2Ah-85Ah. Learn more about the MXS 3.8.
These, and all our chargers, can be viewed and compared on our handy Product Finder which will help you find the right charging solution for your motor vehicles.
3. Pack your gear
When it comes to packing for a motorcycle trip, this may sound obvious: pack light, but smart. Wear your essential riding gear (helmet, gloves, jacket and boots), and don’t forget to pack your rain and windproof gear, just in case the weather turns! You’ll also want to pack any tools you have for minor repairs, a first aid kit, a map, and any personal items plus your list of emergency contacts.
4. Test your gear
It’s a good idea to give your motorbike and your gear a quick test run before you fully set off. Check that your GPS is working, your helmet fits comfortably, and all your tools are accessible. A short ride around the block will help you to spot any potential issues before you’ve gone too far.
5. Plan your route
Know where you’re headed. Spend some time studying your route and identifying any potential areas of interest or concern, including speed limits, busy areas, challenging road conditions, or maybe a beauty spot you want to view.
Of course, most riders rely on GPS, but it’s also a good idea to carry a paper map as a backup, especially if you’re riding in remote areas with limited signal. By planning your route in advance, you can build in rest breaks, fuel stations, and any accommodation you might require along the way.
6. Prep your rider!
Sounds obvious, but make sure you are in peak condition for your ride. Extended periods of time on a motorcycle can be tiring - physically and mentally. Make sure you build in rest breaks, drink plenty of water to stay alert, and re-fuel yourself regularly to maintain your concentration levels.
The ride starts here
Now you know how to prepare for your motorcycle trip, it’s time to get you and your bike prepped. With our top tips for planning and preparing for your ride, and a CTEK battery charger to optimise your bike’s performance, you’ll be ready to hit the roads for your biking adventure with the reassurance that your motorcycle will start first time, every time.
Don’t forget to check out our outstanding range of battery chargers with our helpful Product Finder.
