Going somewhere new and far away? Ever wondered what to take? Don't worry, I have come up with a list of items which I think might give you a helping hand in deciding.
In no particular order of importance here are 12 items which would come in very useful on a long motorcycle trip.
1 - Heated Grips
If you ever find yourself doing any sort of a long trip you will probably at some point be thankful if you have heated grips. Even if you are doing a nice tour through Europe in the middle of summer, if at any point you pass through a mountain range the temperature will drop dramatically. Heated grips are well worth having! The Oxford Original Hot Grips provide decent heat through your finger tips and have 4 different heat settings so you don't have to choose between being cold and burning off your hands.
2 - First Aid Kit
One of the key items i believe that anyone should take on any long distance motorcycle trip is a portable first aid kit. Now I'm not trying to say it will come in much use if you have a serious off (at that point an ambulance would probably be more use) but if you have any minor cuts or scratches having the basics that this Oxford kit provides will definitely help. Some European countries require motorcycle riders to carry first aid kits at all times too.
3 - Luggage
If you are going on a trip that will take you longer than a day its pretty obvious you will need some way of carrying your essentials, unless you plan on washing your clothes in a hotel sink every night. I personally really like the Kriega range of soft luggage. Its very modular and you can pretty much have as little or as much space as you want. Bonus; the Kreiga range is also compatible with almost any motorcycle!
4 - Extra set of warm waterproof gloves
It might be sunny one day and pouring with rain the next, unfortunately the weather is not something we can predict very well on a motorcycle trip, which is why I would recommend taking a second pair of waterproof gloves to cover you just in case! Bike Stop has a large range of waterproof gloves so you are spoilt for choice if you need a pair for your next adventure.
5 - Waterproof boots
I am sure we have all been there, coming off the motorway, going to select another gear, only to find out that all feeling has been lost in the foot. Don't be caught out, stay dry, make sure you take a pair of waterproof breathable boots, these will control the temperature when its hot, making sure no perspiration lingers, but keep the water out when its raining. Perfect for a long journey where you might face multiple climates.
6 - Portable tool kit
I am not suggesting you take your whole garage, but a portable tool kit is definitely a good idea in case any small things go wrong with your beloved machine. This Oxford kit provides all the basics, screwdrivers, allen keys and a small socket set. All portable enough to not take up too much luggage space.
7 - Puncture repair kit
Last thing you would want to ruin your trip is a puncture, if you ever end up immobilised in the middle of no where with no phone signal, a mobile puncture repair kit will definitely come in useful. This Givi tubeless tyre repair kit will have you covered until you reach the nearest repair shop. It even comes with 3 C02 cans to inflate your tyres!
8 - Visor Cleaner
If your journey takes you anywhere remotely warm, you will run into a few insects that will decide get in your path - how inconsiderate, I know! It is however vitally important to keep your vision clear, which is why I suggest you take a small bottle of visor cleaner, or something like this Shift It helmet care kit, as well as visor cleaner it also comes with a anti fog solution, helmet sanitiser and a couple of cloths. Perfect to keep your helmet in top shape while you are away.
9 - GPS
As good as maps are, they are not much use when you are moving, GPS units are pretty reliable these days and Bike Stop has a range of TomTom units available. These are designed specifically for motorcycles and are waterproof, rugged and easy to use with gloves. I would still take a map just in case though, it's always good to have a back up plan.
10 - Intercom system
If you plan on talking to the group you are riding with, or your pillion if you have one, an intercom system is a must have. It makes trips more fun and social. It is also easier to just tell someone you need fuel instead of pulling up next to them and frantically pointing at your tank. Even if you are doing the trip solo, an intercom system can be useful, many have nice features like phone connectivity and radio, keeping you entertained along the way. Bike Stop has a large range of intercoms, let us know what you need and we can recommend one!
11 - Chain Spray
Its recommended to apply chain lube to the chain every 250-300 miles, if your trip lasts any longer than that, you will want to consider taking some chain lube with you. Luckily you won't need to take a massive can, you can get a small travel can of Sdoc 100 which will do the job perfectly.
12 - Waterproof suit
Last but definitely not least, if you are like me and don't own a waterproof armoured motorcycle jacket, then a set of thin waterproofs are perfect to throw over your leathers as a temporary solution, in case you get caught out in the rain. Bike Stop has a range of these, however as the website is still getting updated they are not on there, so please call us on 01438 317038 or use the live chat and ask for more details.
If you have anything else that you think I left off the list, why don't you tell us? We are always keen to hear your opinions, please do comment below! If you would like to enquire about any of the items I have mentioned please give us a call on 01438 317038 or use the live chat and we would be happy to discuss your options.
