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Boston Motorcycle Lawyer

Staying Alert, Aware, and Awake on Long Motorcycle Trips
September 28, 2009

Long trips on a motorcycle are part of the fabric of the American motorcycle lifestyle. Hitting the road on a fully loaded Harley or custom cruiser is both great fun and challenge. Distance riding requires strong motorcycle riding skills and endurance. While motorcycle riding skill is developed over time by riding in varied conditions, riding endurance develops differently. In order to have the endurance needed for long trips, riders must develop a plan to travel safely.

Rest: Before heading out on a long trip, make sure to get as much rest as possible. Starting a trip without proper sleep can make a long motorcycle trip even longer.

Travel Planning: Before heading out on the trip, make sure to plan the route and as much as possible, plan each stop for fuel and lodging. Motorcycles need to refuel every 1.5 to 3 hours and these stops are vital to staying awake and aware. When stopping for fuel, make sure to walk around to keep the blood flowing.

Attire/Gear: Depending on the climate, proper gear is essential to building endurance. Gear that keeps you warm, dry, or properly ventilated will help a biker stay awake. Also, consider changing your motorcycle seat for one offering more support and comfort.

Fluids: It’s important to stay properly hydrated while on long road trips. Make sure to drink water at every stop for fuel to make sure dehydration does not sap your energy while on the bike. In warm climates, sun, wind, and the heat from the bike can drastically increase fatigue. Stay away from soda and other sugary and caffeine filled drinks. Soda and energy drinks are great for initial energy but can lead to a major energy crash.

Food: Food is important to endurance and making the right food choices makes a big difference. Avoid heavy meals or foods with large amounts of carbohydrates. Heavy meals can cause fatigue and heavy carbohydrate meals can cause an energy crash. It’s best to eat small meals frequently.

Long trips are great fun and once you have a plan to keep your riding endurance at the highest possible level, the ride will go quickly and safely. With some planning, your endurance will increase allowing you to trips from several hours to several days.

Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident in Massachuestts due to a driver’s negligence? If so, contact Tom Kiley. His team of attorneys and legal professionals can help you get the compensation you deserve.