Hey there Easy Rider! So, you've been thinking about taking your motorcycle out on the road and living under the stars. But you aren't quite sure how to get started. You've searched YouTube and watched a few videos and thought - that looks like fun, but how do I get started? You start making mental notes: Where would you go? What gear do you need to bring on the trip? Would you be able to actually handle a ride with your motorcycle packed with the equipment needed to go Motorcycle Camping?
Anything new can be a little intimidating. However, educating yourself and being prepared before undertaking a new adventure can help ease your mind and provide some confidence that you can do it! Plus, I've always been a fan of taking things in steps, or stages. Some people go for the gusto from the start, and that is fine if you are one of these people. But I will approach this from a multi-step process.
Safety is always number one. First, you must make sure that you are comfortable riding your motorcycle. You especially want to be skilled in slow turn maneuvers. Anybody can ride in a straight line, but you must be able to handle your motorcycle in tight turns, U-turns, and while riding slower speeds. One of my favorite YouTubers for learning slow speed skills is Jerry Palladino (aka Motorman). You can check out his YouTube channel here: Ride Like a Pro Jerry Palladino.
While you are working on your skills, you can start making sure that your motorcycle is outfitted for Motorcycle Camping. You do not need a ton of storage - again, start small and add storage as time goes on, but you will need to be able to safely transport some essentials (tools and first aid kit, for example) as well as your Camping Gear. Some options include, saddle bags, sissy bar bags, tank bags, and/or just simply a passenger seat for tying down a duffle bag. I have bought from Viking Bags before and am happy with their selection and their products. I'm sure you can find something that fits your motorcycle and your budget.
As you are outfitting your motorcycle and practicing your skills, one great segue to full-blown Motorcycle Camping is taking a multi-day trip but staying in hotels/motels. A longer trip will up the chances that you will ride in different weather conditions. Let's face it - it is easy to avoid the rain when your start and stop point is your garage. Also, you will be carrying a lighter load. Other than some essentials that you should have on most of your rides - did I already mention tools and first aid kit? - you will only need some clothes and personal items/toiletries.
This is just the beginning of your journey. As this site develops, we will get more in-depth with regards to gear and will be providing some reviews to help you make purchase decisions that fit the style of Motorcycle Camping that you would like to do. So, stay tuned for more from the Motorcycle Camping Experts....
Bonus: Here is a picture from my first multi-day trip. We rode from my home state, Louisiana to the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Stay safe, my friends!
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