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Thinking about hitting the open road on your motorcycle but not sure where to start? Then this blog post is for you!
There's nothing quite like the freedom of the open road. Wind in your hair, sun on your skin, and the wide open world stretched out before you. Sounds pretty great, right? Now imagine being able to enjoy all of that PLUS the incredible feeling of pitching your own tent at the end of the day and being one with nature. That's what solo motorcycle camping is all about!
Related: How to pack a motorcycle for camping?
If you're new to the idea of solo motorcycle camping, don't worry. It's not as difficult as it may seem at first. With a little bit of preparation and know-how, you'll be hitting the highway on your two-wheeled baby in no time. Keep reading for some beginner tips on how to solo motorcycle camp like a pro!
Here are 5 beginner tips for solo motorcycle camping:
1. Choose the right vehicle
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Not all motorcycles are created equal when it comes to solo motorcycle camping. One of the most important things to consider when choosing a bike for solo motorcycle camping is weight capacity. You need to make sure your bike can handle the weight of all your gear, plus any additional weight from luggage or a passenger. Heavier bikes can be more difficult to maneuver in rough terrain, so keep that in mind when making your selection.
In addition to weight capacity, you’ll also want to consider power when choosing a bike for solo motorcycle camping. After all, you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a bike that doesn’t have enough power to get you up hills or through mud and sand. If you plan on doing any serious off-roading, look for a bike with at least 200cc of displacement. This will give you enough power to get through tough terrain without sacrificing too much in terms of speed and agility.
Fuel tank capacity is also an important consideration if you plan on doing any extended off-roading. Make sure your bike has enough fuel capacity to get you where you need to go and back again. If you're serious about hitting the road solo, you'll need a bike that's comfortable for long rides and equipped with features that will make your life on the road easier. A few things to look for include saddlebags or panniers for storage, a windshield for protection from the elements, and heated grips or seat for colder weather riding.
Related: Best Motorcycle For Camping
2. Plan Your Route
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Once you have a bike picked out, it's time to start planning your route. If you're not familiar with the area you'll be traveling in, it's a good idea to do some research beforehand so you know what to expect. When planning your route, make sure to take into account things like weather conditions, terrain, and how long you want to be on the road each day. It's also a good idea to map out where you'll be staying each night so you know where you're going and don't have any surprises along the way.
3. Don't skimp on gear
Photo by Ralph Katieb on Unsplash
When you're packing light for solo motorcycle camping, it's important to choose high-quality gear that will serve multiple purposes. A tarp can be used as both a shelter and a groundsheet, while a camp stove can double as a source of heat and a way to cook hot meals. Investing in good-quality gear may cost a little more upfront, but it will save you money (and headaches) in the long run. A winch is an absolute must-have if you're planning on doing any off-roading on your solo camping trips. Whether you're stuck in mud or sand, a winch will help get you unstuck so you can continue on your journey. And if you're not sure what to bring, just check out our blog post about "Motorcycle Camping Gear List".
4. Be prepared for emergencies
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No one likes to think about worst case scenarios, but when you're solo motorcycling it's important to be prepared for anything that might come your way. Make sure you have a first-aid kit packed with basic supplies like bandages and antiseptic cream, as well as any medications you might need. It's also a good idea to bring along a paper map (just in case your GPS fails) and let someone know your route before setting off on your adventure. That way, if something does happen they'll be able to come looking for you.
5. Embrace spontaneity
Photo by Ralph Katieb on Unsplash
One of the best things about solo motorcycle camping is that it allows you to be spontaneous! If you find yourself at the edge of gorgeous canyon with no one around for miles, go explore it! If there's an intriguing dirt path leading off into the distance, go check it out! Part of the fun of solo motorcycle camping is being able to go where the wind takes you without having to worry about anyone else's schedule or agenda but your own.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to hit the open road solo like a pro, what are you waiting for? Grab your tent, pack up your saddlebags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime! And don't forget - if at any point along the way you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or unsure about something, just take a deep breath and remember that there's no such thing as too much preparation when it comes to solo motorcycle camping. Safe travels!
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