Tips For Motorcycle Camping
If you want to escape into nature, camping is a great way to do it. Sleep under the stars, wake up next to a babbling brook and spend the day conquering trails. To reach your camping destination, leave behind your bulky, gas-guzzling truck and use your motorcycle instead! Not only will you save on fuel, you’ll have more room at your campsite.
Here at Cycle North, we love to keep you informed about the ways you can make the most out of your bike rides. Read on for some motorcycle camping tips and then come visit our dealership in Prince George, BC, Canada, to get your bike serviced or to browse our inventory.
Pre-Ride Inspection
You want your motorcycle to function properly throughout your trip, so ensure it’s in good condition before you head out. Check the tire pressure, make sure the tread isn’t worn down and that no objects are embedded in either tire. Check and top off all your fluids, including the coolant. Take your bike for a test drive and if you feel or hear something strange, schedule an appointment with our service department!
Make a Plan
If you don’t plan ahead, you could end up bouncing from one campsite to the next, only to find out everything is booked, or you might forget to pack an essential and make a store trip that lasts hours. You may even miss out on some of the top attractions of the area if you don’t plan ahead! Decide what you’d like to accomplish on the trip ─ any cuisine you’d like to try, trails you want to conquer, tourist attractions you don’t want to miss, etc. Check the weather and make a booking once you reach a decision. Planning ahead will help to make your trip memorable and hassle-free.
Motorcycle Storage
Many bikes have good storage options for long trips, such as saddlebags, top side boxes, and cargo racks. You can also buy upgrades if you want. A common upgrade is a leather cargo bag. These pair well with motorcycles and have a classic aesthetic appeal, but they do need special care and can be damaged by the elements. For a hassle-free option, choose a dry bag. These are waterproof and will keep all your belongings dry and safe.
Packing Strategies
Fitting all your camping gear on a motorbike might seem daunting, but it isn’t if you strategize properly. Choose to pack travel-size toiletries, as you may only need to use them for a few days. Invest in backpacking equipment, which is made to be lightweight and compact. This will help cut down on weight. Be very selective about what you pack. You’ll need all the essentials like clothes, medication, food, water, etc. but beyond that, be careful not to bring too much.
Choosing a Campsite
Ensure a campsite is motorcycle-friendly before you book it. Also make sure that it offers all the amenities you need. When you arrive, take time to find a good spot that is close enough to avoid encounters with wild animals, but far away enough to offer you some peace and privacy.
Motorcycle Care at Your Campsite
When you camp, you have to store your valuable motorbike out in the open. This opens it up to two threats. First, there’s the threat of thieves. To fight this, you’ll want to lock your motorcycle up at night. Second, there’s the threat of the weather. To protect your motorcycle, use a sturdy, packable cover.
Before your trip, make sure your motorcycle is running smoothly. Get any parts replacement or maintenance done at Cycle North. We proudly serve all our friends in Prince George, BC!