Are you considering taking a motorcycle tour of some of the most beautiful and exciting countryside in the world? This is a great way to see a lot of territory in a relatively short amount of time, but it is important to remember that you will be on the road for long hours each day and you will need to be prepared.
During your preparations, you have to remember one crucial aspect: the gear you take with you on your motorcycle tour.
While it is tempting to just grab your favorite items and go, you need to make sure that you have everything you will need to be safe and comfortable while traveling.
Essential Gear for Overland Adventure Motorcycle Riders
- Helmet
- Apparel/ Jacket
- Motorcycle Panniers
- Motorcycle Boots
- Camping Equipment
- Accessories
But let’s take a look at each item on the list and see what is out there for equipment.
1. Helmet
A helmet is essential for safety while riding a motorcycle. Helmets are made to protect the head in the event of an accident and can save your life. You should find a helmet that is comfortable and fits well so that you will be more likely to wear it.
For instance, the Shoei RF-1200 Helmet is one of the most popular motorcycle touring helmets on the market. It is comfortable and lightweight, with an aerodynamic design that helps to reduce wind noise. It also has several features that make it ideal for long rides, such as an internal sun shield, and a Pinlock insert lens to prevent fogging.
2. Apparel
You need to dress for the weather and for the conditions you will be riding in. Appropriate clothing can help to keep you safe and comfortable on your motorcycle tour.
In general, you will want to dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures. You should also wear clothing that is made for riding a motorcycle, such as jeans that are reinforced to protect against abrasion and a jacket that has armor to protect you in the event of a crash.
A good example of apparel that you should consider is the Textile Motorcycle Jacket. The apparel is all-season, waterproof, and windproof. It also has CE-approved armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back to protect you if involved in an accident.
If you want to know how to dress for your adventure trip, check out our article How Should I Dress for an Adventure Bike Trip.
3. Panniers
Panniers are saddlebags that attach to the sides of your motorcycle, and they are a great way to carry your gear while on tour. Panniers can be used to carry just about anything, from clothes and food to tools and camping gear.
There are several different panniers to choose from, depending on your needs. If you are looking for a lightweight option, the Nelson-Rigg is the way to go. These panniers are made from durable water-resistant materials and can be easily attached and removed from your motorcycle.
If you need a lot of storage space, the Giant Loop Mototrekk is a good option. These panniers are made from heavy-duty waterproof fabric and can hold up to 50 pounds of gear. They also have a number of pockets and compartments to help organize your gear.
4. Boots
Your boots are another important piece of gear that you need to take with you on your motorcycle tour. You will want to find boots that are comfortable and offer good protection.
Boots that are made for motorcycle riding are a good option, as they will have features such as armor to protect your feet in the event of a crash, and soles that are designed to grip the pavement.
The Fly Racing Maverik Boot is a good example of a motorcycle boot. It is made from durable materials and has a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry. It also has ankle and toe protection to help keep you safe. They are CE-approved and have a slip-resistant sole to help keep you stable while riding.
5. Camping Equipment
If you are planning on doing any camping while on your motorcycle tour, you will need to take along some camping equipment. There are several different items that you will need, such as a tent, a sleeping bag, a camp stove, a camp chair, and a cooler.
A Dependable Camping Tent for You and Your Bike!
A tent is one of the most important items of camping equipment. You will want to find a tent that is big enough for you and your gear, and that is easy to set up.
The Harley Davidson Dome Tent w/ Vestibule is a good example of a camping tent. It is big enough for up to four people, and it sets up in minutes. It is also made from waterproof materials to keep you dry, including your motorcycle! It is also well ventilated, which is important if you are camping in hot weather.
A Comfortable Sleeping Bag
A good sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep while camping. You will want to find a bag that is warm enough for the temperatures that you will be camping in, and that is lightweight and easy to pack.
The Coleman Sleeping Bag is your best bet, as it is inexpensive and it’s made from lightweight materials that is rated to keep you warm down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It also packs down to a small size, making it easy to transport.
A Portable Camp Stove
A camp stove is a must-have for cooking your meals while camping. A good option is the MSR Pocket Rocket Stove Kit. It is lightweight and easy to set up, and it runs on propane, so you don’t have to worry about bringing along any extra fuel. It is made from alloy steel and is easy to clean.
A Comfortable Yet Compact Camp Chair
A camp chair is a great way to relax after a long day of riding. The Tinya Camp Chair is reviewed to be one of the most comfortable camp chairs around. It is made from high-quality fabric and has a comfortable padded seat. It also folds up for easy transport.
Cooler
A cooler is a must-have for keeping your drinks and food cold while also being lightweight and portable. The IceMule Classic Cooler is an excellent choice. It is completely waterproof, keeps ice frozen up to 24 hours, has welded seams and durable materials to make it last. Oh, it also has straps so you can wander around camp and never be far from a refreshing drink.
6. Accessories
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Motorcycle adventure accessories are a must for making your tour more enjoyable. Some of the accessories that you may want to consider taking with you include a Map, GPS unit, Camping Lanterns, Pocket Lighter, Insect Repellent, Solar Charger, and First Aid kit.
Map
A map is a must-have for any motorcycle tour. You will want to find a good, detailed map of the area that you are riding in. If you are riding in the North Eastern United States, the United States Northeast Adventure Map is a wise pick. It is a detailed map that covers all of the Northeast, from Maine to Virginia.
GPS Unit
A GPS unit is another essential piece of gear for any motorcycle tour. With a GPS unit, you will always know where you are and how to get to your next destination. The TomTom 5 Inch GPS Unit is among the best on the market. It is easy to use and has a 5-inch screen that makes it easy to see even in bright sunlight.
Camping Lanterns
If you are camping while on your motorcycle tour, you may want to take along some fuel camping lanterns. These lanterns use fuel to generate light, and they are a great way to light up your campsite at night. The Vont 2 Pack LED Camping Lantern is the way to go. It is lightweight and easy to use, and it provides plenty of light for your campsite. However, if you are traveling long distances, this may not be as convenient as you might want. Short trips, sure, but longer…maybe not.
Pocket Lighter
A pocket lighter is a handy item to have while camping. It is perfect for starting a campfire, and it can also come in handy for other tasks, such as lighting a candle. The Zippo Lighter is the perfect option. It is windproof and waterproof, making it perfect for use in any weather condition.
Insect Repellent
Insect repellent is a must-have for any camping trip. You will want to find an insect repellent that contains DEET, as this is the ingredient that is most effective at repelling mosquitoes. The OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent is a good option. It is DEET-based and comes in a convenient spray bottle.
Solar Charger
A solar charger is a great way to keep your electronic devices powered up while camping. The Anker Powercore Solar Charger is among the best solar chargers on the market. It is made from high-quality materials and has a powerful 20000mAh battery. It also features a built-in LED light and a compass.
First Aid kit
Emergencies can happen while on a motorcycle tour, so it is important to have a first aid kit with you. The Coleman All-Purpose First Aid Kit will meet your needs. It is a comprehensive kit that contains everything you need to deal with common injuries. It is also compact and easy to transport. Larger injuries need more medical attention!
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle touring can be a lot of fun, but it is important to make sure that you are prepared for the journey. By bringing along the essential gear, you can make sure that your trip is a success.
So, what essential gear do you need for your next motorcycle tour? Be sure to pack the essential gear for adventure touring riders listed above to make sure that you are prepared for anything that comes your way. Enjoy your next adventure!
