Assuming you know how to ride a motorcycle, what else should you think about when motocamping? What aspects of being on the bike are different and need special attention? Most of motocamping motorcycle prep will coinside with any motorcycle long trip.
T-CLOCKS
Before heading on any trip, take a min to ensure your bike is ready for a long trip. T-CLOCKS is the standard method for checking over the bike:
- Tires/wheels
- Controls
- Lights
- Oil/Fluids
- Chasis
- Stands
Tires are always the neglected part of most folks inspection – although i do admit, I have almost never checked my side stand.
Packing
T
he more you pack up all your gear the easier it will get. Some people prefer hard bags, some soft. One option if you need to pack a lot of stuff and your bike doesn’t have any storage is a dry bag. These are great for filling will other dity bags or storage containers. You can throw across the back of the bike and if you need, stack another on top.
There are some beautiful motorcycle themed dry bags. They are great and offer some really nice strapping points. The problem is the price tag that comes with them. I picked up a 40L bag from wally world and it has served me well many times. Pair it with a few cheap bungees and you are good to go.
There are 100 ways to pack and get everything on the bike and there are certainly more elegant methods, but not many will be as cheap.
Total Budget: $15-25
Tools
Motorcycle tools to fix simple problems that may occur involving your chain or other random maintenance. You will not need to set valve clearances while being away for an extended weekend, instead think about tools that would help fix and effect general problems.
- Wrenches – sizes that are right for your bike
- Allen Wrenches
- Screw Drivers and such
Beyond simple and routine fixes, plan on getting a flat at some point. You will want to have the means to repair the puncture and inflate your tire. (Here is a video about using tubeless tire repair kits)
