Tips for planning your motorcycle trip

Anyone planning a long motorcycle trip knows the unique feeling experienced in the days just before you “head out.” Call it anxiety, nervousness, excitement or worry, we’ve all felt it. We’ve checked the bike and the gear, usually multiple times. Then we’ve thought about checking the bike and the gear many more times! We think: “Did I miss something? Did I forget something? Is the bike ready? Am I ready, and am I sure I really want to do this?”

As we head into the summer riding season, I thought a check-list might help plan that long trip. This list is by no means inclusive. I started this list before my trip from Maryland to Arkansas last year and have added to it as ideas and experience have dictated.