Motorcycle Travel, Part IV: Memories and Maintenance
Okay, you’ve picked your destination, planned your route, and found some fun places to visit along the way. You know which states to wear a helmet in and your bags are packed. What are you forgetting?
Saving memories
Many wonderful memories are going to be made during this trip. Have you thought about how you’re going to save them? Your own brain, you say? Well, if you're like me things don’t stick in the old noggin like they used to. What’s the solution?
Make a video!
Now that you’re finally taking your dream trip, there’s nothing cooler than recording it in both picture and video. The scenery and shots are amazing!
Must have for this trip is a video camera! Ideally, your camera and mount will provide:
- A clean, streamlined profile
- Unlimited angle-ability
- 360-degree rotational swivel
- Built-in anti-vibration
One last thing to think about
Have you taken your bike for a “wellness” check? The two of you are going to be spending a lot of time together on this trip.
Make sure your motorcycle is roadworthy and reliable before setting out. Ensure all equipment is working and can withstand the rigors of the road. The tires should have plenty of rubber and be properly inflated, the oil and other fluids should be clean and topped off, and all lighting should be working.
If your bike has a chain drive, the chain should be properly tensioned and lubricated, and if belt driven, the belt should be inspected for wear and properly tensioned. Make sure all nuts and fastening hardware are tight.
Precautions
Make sure someone knows where you are going and all of your contact information and insurance information is up-to-date.
Now with all of this proper planning it is time to go! You are prepared, packed, organized, and it is time to hit the road. You can do it knowing you are prepared and are going to make memories that will last a life time! Enjoy!
- Tracey Cramer
