COMMON MISTAKES on a LONG MOTORCYCLE TRIP (do you make them?)
Вставка
- Опубліковано 30 чер 2018
- Do you make these common mistakes on a long motorcycle trip? Regular motorcycle travel is one thing, but once you start going on longer motorcycle adventures there are some things to consider. I go through some of these travel and riding mistakes based on my own experiences traveling on the road and explain how to avoid these with some motorcycle tips.
Awesome Ed March C90 Adventures episode: • EP10: Trans America Tr...
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT:
donorbox.org/supportpedromota
The Camera that makes this Video look GOOD - amzn.to/2kN7ozC
Awesome Wide Angle Lens that sees all - amzn.to/2JgrkFz
Perfect Travel Camera with Insane ZOOM - amzn.to/2t8lDnh
This Gorillapod can Handle it ALL - amzn.to/2Kaqr58
Undisputed Low Budget Rode KILLER Mic - amzn.to/2JkXLTh
No more wwwraagshhhswraghhshsgsshhhhhhh - amzn.to/2JkD9ed
Indestructible Oldskool GoPro that Keeps on Giving - amzn.to/2td5VY6
GoPro I wish I had but the Above one just won't Quit - amzn.to/2lmXFAb
Stick any GoPro on this Pole and LIFE is GOOD - amzn.to/2MEbpD4
How do I Travel with all this Data - amzn.to/2sy3miI
How do I not CRY when I DROP all this Data - amzn.to/2Jgkfoq
FOLLOW ALP AND ME:
/ ipedromota
/ ipedromota
/ ipedromota
Hi, My name is Pedro Mota and I ride my trusty Honda Transalp to wherever she will take me. Motorcycle touring around the world!
Back on a motorbike after an absence of 38 yrs, so wished that I never gave it up. Now in my 60s and it's all I live for. The freedom is so refreshing. Riding has saved me.
Welcome back, Brother.
@@dodaade2179 Cheers Bro
Steven I'm in a similar situation, rode a gold wing back in the 80s, but now haven't ridden a bike in over 30 years.
These days being retired, I decided to buy a bike and eventually do that trip to the Grand Canyon.
Steven I would love to trade notes with you, If interested , you can contact me via email at "CharlesNextProject@gmail.com"
@@charlesx593 Great that you are doing the biking again after a long break. Some people may think the bike I have is kind of small, as it is only a 125 Lexmoto LXR super sport, but i'm fine with that, i'm having a great time rediscovering my love of biking. Once I get a bit more road experience I will upgrade to something a bit more powerful, I don't want to run before I can walk.
Same here. Exactly.
I started a solo trip from KS to Alaska. On day 2 I met John at a gas station just outside of the campsite he asked if he could follow me to the US Canadian border..No problem. After the crossing he asks if he can join me (We were headed to the same place). I laid out my rules for riding together and he agreed. A couple of days later John and I are in Canada and meet another solo rider also headed to Dawson City/Alaska. He asks if he can join us. Again, I laid out my plan and he was welcomed to join. For the next 7 days we rode through British Columbia, the Yukon and Alaska with never a cross word said to each other. It was a great adventure of three solo riders becoming a bonded group. That trip was in 2009 and we are all still friends! I feel what made us all click is that we had the same goals, attitude, and riding skills. We were like minded people.
This was a pre deployment ride for me and I had the tightest schedule of us three. We set an alarm and got up to break camp (we were camping). Patryk was the youngest of us and would sleep in every day when he was solo. After a couple of days with John and I he made the comment about how far we were riding each day and it was easy if you get up early. :) I had to ride 500 miles a day to get up and back in time. All of us had input into what we wanted to see. At any point if someone wanted to go off on their own no bad feelings....ride your own ride. On one particular day John was having a difficult day. We were on the Cassiar Highway. We were all wet, cold and fatigued, but it was John who spoke up at 2:00PM and said he needed to stop. I had been on the Cassiar before and knew the Deese River campground was just ahead and they had cabins. We stopped there got a cabin with a wood burning stove. It was a great decision on Johns part as we all needed the rest. That was it really. Again, three very like minded riders. We had all covered a lot of distance on this trip. I was from KS, John SD, and Patryk MD.
These are the friends that got your back if s*** hits the fan. Especially if they follow road rules
Farout
You gains great deal of respect travelling solo. People from all walks will come and talk too you! Solo is best! Think there are more solo riders than group riders?👍🏍🏴
was expecting the story to end on the lines of ' we are married for five years now'.
I always ride with 5 other people, the others are all in my head. We have great conversations and arguments too.
Me to!
I ride so the noises and voices in my head of everyday life are silenced. Apart from the motor humming and road noises, it’s the most peaceful place to be.
are you Pisces - or Virgo? 😆
lol one time at an airport I was questioned as to why I was traveling so light, knapsack. I replied "well I got a deal worked out with a couple of multibillion dollar companies. They filled most of the developed world with these stores that keep supplies there so all I have to do is walk in with some money and then walk out with whatever I want instead of bringing it all with me." haha TSA agent didn't laugh.
They don't know how.
Got the same question from Australian border force... I replied, “I like Apple Pay too much!”... he was also not impressed! Lol
That means you have money. I’d never bother asking people such a shitty question.
I’d just mind my own shit.
And yes, I was not impressed by reading your comment. Neither laughed tho.
for border security, light travellers raise suspicions. They often get “wise guys” coming through. Maybe funny at first but then wears thin. A simple honest answer usually makes things go smoothly and everyone gets on with their day.
@@SimonBrisbane Exactly! Or who will have the last laugh if they got denied to cross the border lmao!!
the reason why i ride alone is noone of my friends has a motorcycle licence or is interested in bikes
Same here bro..
Same
And I even don't have a license. But I have bought a bike to encourage myself.
I feel you bro
you have the wrong friends!
I definitely like riding alone. I rode in a large group and it really sucked. My experience, the bigger the group the more jerks you will find.
Thats what they said as well.
I agree. I have ridden west to east in Australia a few times and the hardest trip was in a group. And riding solo on a day when I decided to do 1700 km I didn't have to argue with others about it, just got it done (Nullarbor Homestead to Perth).
Sooooo true!
It takes so much longer. I like one good friend who is identical to you in every way, lol. I have one friend like that with whom I love to travel.
So true, with bigger groups . So many different riders and interests
I'm glad I clicked on this one. It was, "Well, lets see what this guy has to say about it." It's been 45 years since I started riding around North America, with a total mileage of over 530,000 miles under the tires...many tires. All of the mistakes and cautions you talked about works with any long trip, on any bike, not just adventure bike trips. For me it's, "All about the ride." I'll ride past the sunset, most times it's at least a 12 hour day. My latest long ride was up to Alaska on my Suzuki 650 scooter. Woke up at a place near Pink Mountain and rode with the sun that day. As long as the sun was up, I rode. 17 and a half hours later I pulled into a motel parking lot. Even saw 6 black bears along the way. I have ridden 99.9% of the time by myself. I don't go over 55mph, so I can enjoy the ride longer. I'm not afraid to tell others how I ride, because I know most don't do it that way. If we're going to the same place I'll say, "Well, maybe I'll see you there." Then we go our separate ways. I have always looked over the map first and lay out the routes, and If I "accidentally deviate" ;) from the route, I just declare it part of the ride and don't try to make up time. Getting some place safely is much better than not getting there at all. Enjoyed the video. Keep the rubber side down. Stay safe out there.
what a beautiful story thank you for sharing
I did a day ride with a friend and by the end of the day I was wondering why I ever liked the guy to begin with.
I might be kind of late to comment on this video, but I couldn't stop to notice that almost everybody, if not all, were saying that they prefer to ride alone and adding - half excusing - "I'm kind of a loner, you know". Well, having a bike it is already a statement of the kind of person we are. Independent, and independent rimes very well with loner. Even if we have friends we may like to ride with, we are still riding our own bike and our own ride. Good luck to all!
totally agree!
usually I'm a 1 year to 7 years late on making comments, I'm in section J-, you're A+
*Well, having a bike it is already a statement of the kind of person we are.*
The best thing I've read in a while.
THat's the clue !!!!
I’ve got a daughter, she rides on the back. It’s good to share experiences. Had a friend ask her “What’s the best part of riding the motor bike?”
“Hanging out with my Dad”
Full points to you kiddo.
Mistake 1 bringing too much stuff
Mistake 2 not bringing enough stuff
Usually both at the same time.
Rain, rain, rain, yet more rain and have I mentioned rain? Nothing is worse than losing your waterproofing of any of your stuff.
Mistake 3: Bringing the wrong stuff.
Well said. Last run, I spent a small fortune in tools as I bought a used bike (I flew in to buy the bike and was running it halfway across the country). I didn't need a single item. It was still peace of mind, but that was a lot of bits and bobs for no reason.
Right stuff.
Usually bringing the wrong stuff.
Tried with someone else, never again with that person. Different budgets, different idea of fun, different eating habits [Mine are normal, breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks inbetween. Theirs not so much] So many regrets like missing out on local food, zip-lines, kayaking. Can't wait to do the trip again but on my own next time, it sounds harsh to say but I had a good time but felt like it was missing something
How many were there in the group?
@@shoechew just the two of us, talking to bikers along the way at campsites ect...
I don't care how heavy it makes my bike: I'm not brushing my teeth with a bar of soap.
john hanrahan 😂
salt works just fine
On a positive note, bad breath is no longer a thing
You can brush your teeth with shower gel. Ive done it a few times while travelling. Some have a nice fruity taste too!
@@mundoglory7071 some taste like death
Dude great video and you bring you’ve touched on several several points that I am all to familiar with but also forgot about.
One the most important things that I’ve learned about riding with other people is 1. As much as you might want to, you can’t ride with everyone. 2. The quickest way to end a friendship is to ride with people that are not compatible with your own riding style. 3. Accidents don’t just happen, they are truly a culmination of a number of smaller events that lead up to a bad event. 4. If you are lucky enough to find someone that you are compatible with and fits your riding style, hold onto and cherish that person because they are pure gold.
Hi, I've done 3 major long distance road trips. I'd say:
1. Don't take too much. Everything should fit in a backpack
2. Don't rush, do a nice 200km a day
3. Avoid highways, take the minor roads. Theyre much more scenic and twisty!
4. You don't need a big bike. I did the length of Indonesia on a 150cc, was amazing and so cheap
5. Ride alone, you can suit yourself and not have to compromise/argue/wait for another person
@IdahotoPI WTF are you talking about, my Honda Verza easily reached 70 mph plus. There are many back roads in Indonesia to cruise at slow speed
Yes I.dont think he.made.any.sense at all
@@1pasupaty Hes probably jealous that I made such a trip and is trying to discredit me
IdahotoPI Perfect sized bike for mostly asphalt and some gravel/dirt roads, in my opinion is a 650. My preference would be a GS 800 but thats me.
On mostly gravel and dirt with “some” asphalt, I’d still go with a 650 but would drop to a 390 or 350.
No matter what, I wouldn’t recommend anything less than a 250.
@IdahotoPI Bullshit. I ride my 110cc Honda Wave on the German highway regularly. No speed limit here by the way. Another plus of a small bike: weight. I've driven basically the same bike thousands of kilometers all over southeast Asia. It will get you to places where no heavy 'adventure bike' will ever be seen with a fuel consumption of 2 liters/100km. I could go on...
Thus is the first time someone has pointed out the cause of that stressful everywhere/nowhere feeling!!! Great vid man, excited to check out the rest of your stuff
I'm definitely a solo rider... I really love to ride without a precise schedule. I like group riding as well, and it feels really nice to share the passion of riding with fellow riders... but, as in every life situation, you have to be very picky about the riding partners you choose. We all need to feel the sense of freedom we get when we are on a bike, indeed we mostly ride because of that. So, I wouldn't advice any restriction of such freedom! Cheers to all!
Very picky or VERY laid back.
USB charging port. That's my first mod. Need that phone for maps and weather radar.
So thruh is was the second thing after the suitcases i was thing of ;)
@@skaletjanos Suitcases? LOL!
Yes but there are things called power banks...
Eh, I just follow the I10 from one side of the country to the other
@@Gregbot9000 That's a boring ride. Especially through Texas.
Man, you nailed it!! This is soooo good! Strip away the veneer and it comes down to how resilient you are. The romance of the RTW biker is a myth and there's a lot of crap that you have to endure, but one good sunrise, topping one good hill with a perfect view and the counter goes back to zero again. Keep inspiring us who are still in the planning stage to just get it done. And keep posting these videos - you really should know that you are inspiring those who follow in your tyre tracks!
calamity (def.): the sum of smaller mistakes that meet each other in a perfect circumstantial shitstorm
Brilliant!!!
"Just remember to adapt on time!" Now that's funny. I spilled my coffee when you said that! Good video! Cheers!
Pedro, you deserve x10 or x20 subscribers - this video is gold!
Excellent psychological tips - not just a list of items for the trip. Keep it coming Pedro, and dont be scared of making longer videos.
I agree with all of them, despite not doing any bigger trips than simple city to city trips across Europe, so I am noob, and learning before considering doing something longer. Truth is, I dont want to travel the world by bike! Its definitely a calling… or something people think they should do. You fall in the first camp.
Cheers,
G
Kind words my man, share the word! Beauty of this machine is that you can do ride in any way that fits you best.
Love the footage that you inserted from your trips. It's so high quality and makes the video an absolute pleasure to watch. I'm not really planning any super long trips around the world but I've done some locally in groups and kind of longer ones alone and I feel like I'm really a lone she-wolf; or maybe I haven't met the right riding buddies yet because I enjoy riding alone so much more.
You should be a very happy man. I have watched your video several times and got more out of it each time. Thanks for your reminder that we miss the enjoyment of the journey when we put our mind order pressure. I have watched many videos of all kinds of major problems on a trip. With a positive attitude and some help from new found friends, they had a great time. However, constantly complaining, and being miserable, another rider missed all the good things and wonderful people that truly make each trip uniquely special! There are many pitfalls to fall into. Your insight is truly helpful!
Just discovered this video. Great advice. I have done a lot of travel alone, small and larger groups. You hit this spot on!! Especially agree with the planning and recognition of the need to be realistic and flexible with that planning!!
This is a very good video. I've been riding for 50 years and I found out early on that I am the consulate planner of my routes but I also learned to relax about the destinations. I ride exclusively alone. I refuse to even ride with my best friends because at the end of the day no two people ride alike. I enjoy meeting people on the road but I go my way so they go theirs.
Keep it simple! After my Chicago to L.A. trip, I realized the importance of minimalism. I found that a 24 pack of Miller Lite would fit in each saddle bag, my bedroll became a bungeed-down back rest, and the bag of tools I carry could also fit one cigar in a tube, and a tooth brush, which also helps keep sand out of the chain. That's it. Travel Lite!
Some great quotes from the video:
“I can’t believe he drinks Heineken”
“Being in the moment and enjoying the road ahead”
“Focusing on destination and where you are going”
“It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey”
“A calamity is a sum of smaller mistakes that meet each other in a perfect shit-storm”
“We keep thinking about where we ought to be and completely miss out on where we are”
Sounds like master Oogway
Going on my first “long distance” ride with my brothers this year up the Pacific Coast Highway and really appreciated your experienced thoughts! Thanks for the video brother!
It's a brilliant ride.
A good clip Pedro, speaking from my 40 odd years of experience I'd say you know your stuff very well.
I find that I am fine riding with others when I let them plan the ride and just go with whatever plan they come up with. But on the other hand I get frustrated when I am asked to plan the ride and have to deal with others ideas and questions around the plan. So I’m fine to go along with a ride, but prefer to ride on my own when I have a specific plan in mind. Sometimes I’ll do both on the same ride.
Pure Wisdom. Thanks Pedro for sharing. Unfortunately genuine and worthy creators arent appreciated that much, keep growing. Love from India.
Thank you. I am just about to embark on an 8 day trip with people I have never traveled with before and you have made me think about possible issues.
Hey Pedro,
just found out about you and your channel. Really great stuff with quite the pleasant "presenter". Very entertaining and informative. Thanks for all the points!
Keep it up and all the best for the coming rides. Cheers from Germany.
Alone on the road.
Buddies off road.
Got that right.
Me too!
YES I like that!!!
Yup..
👍🔥
I always travel with my motorcycle in "lone wolf" mode. Just to avoid the problems that you mentioned (communications, decisions...etc). I prefer traveling and risking alone to enjoy the whole things in my way as i want.
That doesn't mean that a traveling in a group is not good, everyone had to test both solo and group to find the kind of traveling that he will appreciate.
Thank you for the video.
Thanks for the tips. Excellent. About the part travelling in a group. I always ride with my two older brothers and my father, who is 70 yo, but can't stand a week without his bike. A lot experience, great time spent and no worries about anything. I recommend this. Travel safe, make more awesome videos.
Great vid
Leaving from Detroit for TDF on a Ural next week. Always appreciate these
What a great video! Tons if great information here. Pedro, you are a wise, wise man. Thanks for sharing your experiences and thoughts :)
I am a travel addict and I love going to new places/countries that are new to me and meeting new people, I always travel light literally the bare minimum!
I just started getting into the motorcycle world and im planning on going on solo trips and documenting them soon, I’m so glad that I found this video so much INFORMATIONS, new SUBSCRIBER.
Your description of conflict between riders is exactly why I have ridden across the country 3 times..each time by myself .
Gup when I want leave when I want , stop for gas or unch and quit dor the night when I want .. never having to check my mirror for my fronds ..just for danger .
Love solo touring
I love riding alone or with someone who also enjoys the scenic routes at slower speeds. Seems like most people I've rode with rush through and just want to get to the destination without enjoying the views or things in town to check out. I love exploring new places and family owned breakfast joints are my favorite 😁
I think I’m better off riding alone, at least for the near future. It’s been a rough couple of years, And as much as I like To be with other people most of the time, think I need to be alone for a while. Great advice! Thanks, Jake
I have ridden over 500,000 miles in the past 25 years, all but about 5,000 miles has been single motorcycle. Riding in a group is like trying to herd cats.
Herding cats, exactly correct!!! I think my friends are cool, but its fun to try to figure out what their thinking when they are riding!
Pedro, you did good man! The points you brought up were really good, and deserve attention. THANK YOU and make some more videos!
Agree with all the points especially group riding. I've always been a solo guy! Thanks for the video. Wonderful!
Rather ride in a group for safety but I am a very flexible guy by definition. I find it easy to adapt. I do draw the line at the very beginning saying that I will never compromise my safety. I won't match anyone's aggressive style if I don't feel I'm ready for. I will not overtake a truck on a turn like I saw some people doing. Things like that. Off road is a bit trickier, like everywhere in life some people are nice to talk to but others are just jerks. You have to learn to turn it off when you have to. I love the part about your mind going to a dark place, that is so true. Hard to avoid, though, it takes some skill.
Spent 3 weeks solo in Hokkaido last year. So nice to do whatever I want. And I usually combine restaurant hunting with my touring which most people don't want to do.
Very good information. I've discovered many of these things myself on long rides. Well, long rides for me anyway. Usually no longer than 3,000 miles because of limited paid time off. I would love to see more of this. Thanks for taking all the time to put your videos out. I know it must be horribly time consuming.
Hey, thanks for these tips! They are very clear n informative and I can tell they come from solid experience. 🙂
My only real mistake was flipping the emergency switch by hanging my helmet on the handle bar.
I couldn't figure out why the damn thing wouldn't start, and I was already dismantling the fuel tank, spark plugs, and some wiring before I noticed my mistake.
Absolute classic "surely there isn't anything odd about this sudden catastrophic failure to start". First thing I do nowadays is look at that red button. Once I was almost 2km into walking home with 8 to go until I decided to check the main fuse on the solenoid.
Don't feel bad. I ride metric and they have a safety circuit so if it's in gear it won't start. I didn't realize it was in gear when I came out of a restaurant thinking the battery was low because I left the headlight on. I was doing the same kind of craziness, breaking out a multimeter checking battery level, wondering what in the world was going on until I realized that. My friend I was with on that trip still gives me shit about it.
Did that when I was younger and dropped it. Only to have the old boy walk over, flick the switch, and walk away shaking his head 😄
Dropped my bike. Forgot kickstand. My most hated mistake. I use my killswitch to kill my engine when I stop. Off, then back on. Keeps my hands on the bars. Sometimes I put it in neutral, kill the engine and coast to the parking spot.
Haha yeah I've dismantled pretty much my whole bike before figuring out it was just the fuse
One thing to note when you ride with people, if you ride on a long enough trip with the same people, there are times where you will be short or lose patience for no real reasons...Just like sibling.
I went on a 5 day ride with 2 of my best buds. On day 4-5...we were snapping a bit more just due to the fact that we were together 24/7. Realize that this happens, shake it off and get that clear mind. It can create a stronger bond with your buddies or can break it.
We now laugh about it whenever it comes up in topic of conversation and I will say, it has def. made our friendship stronger.
So keep that in mind when travelling with people.
Interesting & helpful tips Pedro. I’m 51 years old & have enjoyed 5 international motorbike trips with friends. Not same friends on each trip. This year I’m looking forward to travelling to Spain & Morocco on my own. One year a friend invited one of his friends.... it didn’t work out well. Guy was so so up tight it affected the entire experience. Best tip I can give is know who’s coming on the trip & also set ground rules beforehand.
Good video man. I learned a lot of my mistake going on cycling adventures. You learn a lot in a day or two about what kind of rider you are and the things you really need.
That was an interesting video. I was abit confused where you were heading on it at first but that cleared itself as you go through the video.
Not having done an RTW but having led loads of group rides as a club committee member I see both sides of the coin and youre right, that your mindset changes. It depends on the kind of ride too. But I have learned to become a solitary rider i like my own pace and tarmac. I only ride with close friends and only those i know I can ride with for a few days without getting frustrated at the things you mention .
Cheers
I can agree a ton about setting unrealistic timeframes for yourself. I had to make a 1600 mile trip in 48 hours, sadly due to external constraints there was no changing these parameters. It took me out of the journey and put me squarely on destinations. I failed to enjoy large portions of it and I definitely plan on taking more time next time I have along travel ahead of me. Next year I plan to make the same trip but also plan to leave earlier, get more sleep, and have more time set aside to enjoy the ride.
Good video, after 50+ years on 2 wheels most of my riding circle we all think identical and plan accordingly. We always packed parts and tools to fix nearly anything broken or failed, and planned so rarely had a duplicate tool or part whiten the group.
So many good memories over the decades from competition enduros to hare scrambles to long range dessert trips.
As the calendar rolled past we gradually grew apart from each other so my "Most common mistake" I've seen made is keep your friends in your mirror and keep on riding...
Tks for the video.
It’s a great information - well done! I watch every time before I head off on trip, short or long 😊
Wow! Great tips! Moments from a seriously experienced traveller! I’ve crossed similar challenges and it feels like some of the comments Pedro makes might not make sense until you are out there and experience them yourselves. The important thing here is... to do whatever you can to experience for them yourself! Every trip/journey/experience is different. Slow drown (as Pedro, rightly recommends), enjoy every day as it comes. The rat race will soon claw its way back into your normality! So embrace YOUR trip as much as you can. There is no wrong road...
Also, so jealous of your trips Pedro! See you out there somewhere.
It's interesting how riding can bring out the best in you but also sometimes amplify the worst. The latter in most cases your own fault so that in itself can be confronting. Do this long enough and it becomes a Buddhism course on wheels. Cheers mate, keep going on your own trips.
Great information! Keeping the head clear is where it's at.
Fantastic video!! You have a fountain of knowledge gained from your travels. I hope to see more videos like this one. Recapping you journeys and hearing your thoughts looking back is a fantastic in sight and helpful inspiration for future fellow travelers.
I do hope you make it to Canada. It would be fantastic to bump into you.
Again thank you for all your great videos. I will certainly be checking out your patron page. Keep up the excellent work.
Great points. I really appreciate your perspectives and advice.
Getting a little nervous, as I’m planning a ride through the Rockies for a group of guys, many of whom have not spent a lot of time together. 😬
Spot on! especially riding in groups. once someone gets on your nerves it takes a lot not to strangle them.
Yes sir..that's the definition of Stress
I once spent 5 months on my bike. He’s totally right, travel light, enjoy the present and spend less stress on the destination.
Depends on the bike .. i had a Yamaha XS 1100 .. with complete vetter set on it .. i could ride heavy and not have problems ... the bike itself was already 340KG (749lbs) .. i didnt pack full most of the time.. take into account you get more stuff along the way... as you shop and whatever .. i never had problems even when full packed
Awsome video! This is good advice for riding, and real life in general. You have a great outlook. As far as mistakes I've made. There isn't enough typing room LOL! Keep the videos coming!
So right, you are about TV vs. Ed March. Same goes for you. I learn a lot from you. I have made all these mistakes. Took me a long time to accept that I am much better off riding alone on long trips - and joining up with others for a few days.
I am a solo rider, I rode from Miami to Fort St John BC and met a few buddies and we rode from there to Fairbanks Alaska for the June 21st "ride to the midnight sun" and the ride alone of 3500 km was perfect and after meeting with the group one day was all i could handle. We rode as a group for 7 days and it sucked, I made it through and rode down to Cancun alone. I ride many thousand miles each year and it alone, but i don't ride like you as I ride a Harley cruiser so no off roading. I have done as few as 10 km in a day and as many as 1400 km, the amount i do is up to only me this way. I rode out to Key West just so I could drive the long causeway out, when I got to Key West I took exactly 5 pictures of the furthest place can drive to then turned around and drove back, that was all i wanted. When i am hungry i stop, when I am tired I get a cheap room otherwise I just love the ride and the passing miles.
I hear you. I drove to Key West, wandered around on foot for an hour, watched the famous sunset, then immediately drove back to the mainland. Slept in my car inland from Miami rather than pay the $400+ a night for a hotel on crowded Key West, heh. (Not a motorcycle ride, but, same mindset.)
Wow, that distance is amazing to me. I have a sport bike and the most I rode was 200 miles/day
We have similar riding styles, homie. Longest day for me on a Lowrider was 1500km (930 miles). From Aix-en- Provence, France to Mortágua, Portugal in 16 hrs 25 minutes. Didn't plan to ride that far but when I was in the area where I had planned to stop the sun was just too high so I kept going. By the time I started to get tired I was too close to home to spend another night out.
For someone that rides pretty freely group riding can be a drag.
I usually have carrots, apples, chicken breasts, etc sliced in baggies for the day, don't stop for a lunch and carry a 1.5 lt bottle of water. I'll plan a night stop but that's adjusted based on the weather, traffic and how I feel. Stopping every couple of hours for gas is plenty of stopping. Some of my basic planning costs for a ride are €20/day for food, under €50/night for hotels and gas costs whatever it costs. (gas varies wildly from country to country)
One buddy on a ride is all I can handle. I don't like riding with strangers and don't see the point. I get on the bike to get away from daily life and enjoy the freedom. With the riding you do I would like to see some vlogs if you make any.
Agreed, riding alone or with no more than one or two friends is best. Most of my best days on the bike are unplanned with impulse stops or surprise discoveries.
Cross country (US) 3 times. Each time was Lone Rider Of the Apocalypse deal. Definitely would love to have some company next time. Tons of great memories but the one I'm gonna share is the 1st one. San Fran, '90, just south of the Goldan Gate, parked. Called my parents and said "C ya in a month and a half". They live in Ct. 22, just got out of the Coast Guard. Turned from the phone booth, saw my bike; 82 Honda magna 750, loaded up with the Pacific Ocean behind her. Realized exactly what I was doing, 4,500 miles alone from one ocean to the other on that little thing, and not in a straight line. A shot of fear went thru me like a lightning bolt. What the hell mission do I have in front me? Holleee she ite. Will never forget that visual or feeling. Most definitely would like to have a honey tag along to share this stuff. Best way to travel
I put 50,000 miles on an '84 V30 Honda Magna I bought used. Great machine that I wish Honda still made. Super reliable and all over the country with it, until the fuel pump gave up the ghost at 70,000 miles. My first ride to anything long distance was 4,000 miles to Sturgis, SD.
Cracking video! you only get out of life what you put in. Got up in the UK one cold Feb morning and decided to see how far I could travel from Burnley in daylight. Wife thought I was only going out for an hour or two, but 10hrs later I was in Riems in France. Rode back next morning 970miles on a Yamaha MT 09 and a great experience.
Words of wisdom have been spoken! Well done Pedro. So true.
Awesome video, I just did my first long ride, a total of 1600 miles round trip from Utah to oregon. It was an awesome journey and the first of many to come. I learned alot on that trip and ended up losing a saddle bag due to it being to heavy and catching on fire, (exhaust side bag) shouldve packed less stuff for sure. I did make it of course and now have the story to tell. And I would do it all again. The feeling of relief when finally getting out of the Nevada desert and hitting the forests of Oregon was surreal, there's nothing like going on a solo ride and just going on a journey.
Been there with the bag on the exhaust.
I'm a typical introvert but I've found I can adjust to either solo or small group of friends rides. On my last "really long" trip I spent a month riding 11,000 miles around the US, for the first 4700 miles (NY to San Diego via a pretty meandering route) I was with 2 other riders (brother and cousin). They had to be home before I did so they split and I rode the remaining 6300 miles solo. Group riding has some downsides (having to compromise - which for me meant slowing down a bit and stopping more often) but some upsides (someone to share the adventure!). The first two days of solo in CA I really missed that... in fact I almost changed my plans to catch up to them... but I held out and on the 3rd day I had come really epic riding in central CA (I was heading north to Seattle) and before I knew it I was loving being solo. SO... just because you're an introvert don't assume you can't enjoy a group ride... and I suspect that extroverts will find that they can love riding solo if they give it a chance.
I can't believe ANYONE drinks Heineken.
Excellent suggestions. I was lucky enough to travel the Patagonia and enjoyed every minute of the trip....Great video! Keep up the good work
This can be applied to any road trip any vehicle. Pedro you are a wise man thank you.
76 year old here who rides a Suzuki 650 V Strom. Totally agree with all you said, Pedro! Did 9000+ miles in 2016 from Sacramento to Prudhoe Bay and lots of other Yukon and Alaska places. Then in 2018 did almost that much going to Tuktoyatuk in Northwest Territories and more of Alaska, etc. 2016 started with 7 guys, ended up coming back to WA with just one other and solo from there back to Sac. 2018 started with 8, soloed from Vancouver Island home. Totally agree that less is better and alone is best.
1. You start and stop for potty whenever you darn well want.
2. You stop and take pics any time you want and don't worry about the others.
3. You eat wherever and whenever you want. You decide to camp or motel it with no stress on how that will go over with the others.
4. You get to think more about where you are and what you are experiencing instead of where everyone else is and whether they are OK.
The list could go on. Our Rule #1 was not to try to keep up with the guy who liked to ride really fast and take corners at uncomfortable speeds. Biggest mistake was making motel and ferry reservations at times we had to hit. Big stress. However, I do recommend a motel reservation in Tuktoyatuk should you do that trip since space is very limited and camping in a tent could get you up close and personal with a hungry Polar Bear. Most other places it ain't necessary.
DL 650 V-Strom is build by Suzuki, not by KTM.
However, I hope I'll be still able to ride my 650 V-Strom when I am 76 years old (25 years to go).
Oops. Dumbs**t attack. You're right, mine's a Suzuki. I just edited my post and took out the "KTM" and replaced it with " Suzuki" The guy with us on his KTM crashed on the Inuvik Tuk Highway and I was thinking about him when I was writing this. Best excuse I could think of. I too hope you can ride your V-Strom at 76 years old. Keep at it!!!
It's SUZUKI(from Japan) sir. And I wish I'll be still able to ride my 1 month old my V-Strom 650 until my 76 years birthday. (for me... it's 46 years to go!) - another V-Strom 650XT rider from S.Korea who is planning to cross Eurasia on next summer. From Seoul, S.Korea to Cabo da Roca, Portugal.
Thanks for your comment, Jim.
I'm 70 and ride a KLR 650 in S Africa.
It's good yo hear about other "seniors" who still enjoy riding.
Best Wishes
Keep the rubber side down.
Jim Piatt wonderful! And great to note your age! I am a spring chicken at 72 and you have given me a real shot in the arm! Thanks 🎃 I have a 30 year old Ironhead, but I’m planning some serious solo expeditions throughout Europe and beyond on newly acquired Enfield 500 🤪
Just bought a 500c scooter and planning my 1st trip alone this summer, spain to Italy.. a bit nervous as first time and on a scooter, but very excited at the same time. Thank you for the tips and personal experiences! Will definitely come in handy and surely contribute to avoid unwanted experiences 👍🏼👍🏼
Remember you only live once! Happy trails.
A scooter? Why?
@@andywing8330 Best wind protection as well as comfort, lots of room to store stuff and so on... Its a 500cc probably Aprilia Atlantic or Piaggio, 40hp, more than enough for cruising.
Great information! In August, I'm solo on hyw 90 for 18 days. South Carolin, to California and back.
Great tips!
You're right on. I ride mostly alone. I like it best. I'm glad you brought that all out.
Great video very useful. For my taste, I can ride for a Sunday afternoon with others, but as far as a long trip (or even a weekend), for many things you said, no way, I go alone period!!!
You have totally nailed down some group ride issues. Thanks for admitting it publicly! I have wrestled with these issues of time/speed/destination myself.
Hey man i really dig your cavalier angle toward riding. Quality topic matter, I really support your desire to educate; thus keeping riders alive.
Good job! I’ve ridden all the way to Ushuaia and Tuktoyaktuk from Oregon. After some bad experiences I find I’m better off riding alone. I don’t have the patience to deal with poor riding skills and different personalities. I went to Ushuaia with a team of 3 and was soon solo, the very best part of that trip was when I was on my own. Besides, your never totally isolated as you’ll meet other riders along the way. I just got back from Tuktoyaktuk and met many riders along the way, some I rode with for a few days and others I just chatted with while getting gas. Your videos are great and informative, keep it up.
Most of this is true about most forms of travel! Bravo!
Nice video, I agree on everything you said! Stuff, planning, pace, companions and mindset: that's where I have seen many travelers fail. I had a one year Round The World trip in 2013 so I had to face more or less the same issues (shipping from Japan costs far less, but I lost my goods in a shipwreck...Chileans did much better :P). I was just starting my riding career so I just had few weeks on the bike over 12 months, but 6 years later riding street bikes I bought a 2nd hand adventure bike I am testing on "short" trips (2 weeks with a wife pillion). After having my "backpacking on a shoestring" time in my 20ies, I feel travelling by motorbike is the way I want to travel now in my late 30ies, so I am looking forward to a 4-6 weeks in central Asia.
Thank for your videos, ciao!
Hi Pedro, great video with great tips. Thanks for keeping it real, simple and fun. The best way to ride.
Ive always enjoyed riding with 1 or 2 others. I simply don't stick to any must do's and just go with the flow. There are always things you would want to do different if you were solo, but it's nice to experience a trip a way you wouldn't normally do things. plus sharing an amazing experience with someone goes a long way..
I read this tip years ago and it works well for me. Throughout the year, I save my "less than good underwear, t-shirts and etc," As I use them and they need washing, I just toss them, lightening my load as I go.
Cliche hat, love it. All around this is true for LIFE. Great advice.
Watched this again. Good advice Pedro, my son and I are planning a trip next year through the Americas so this is valuable information. We have done long trips together in the past so that isn’t a problem. My issue will be chasing destinations which I’ll need to keep an eye on. As you say it’s the journey. All the best Mike. Our modest channel is Giliams travels
This is one of the best videos on planning motorcycle tours I saw and heard!!! To spend this 10' can help to avoid hours and days of pain and frustration! The topic of "having no plan means, to be everywhere and nowhere at the same time" is a great thought! The absolute highlight of riding experiences is the following: "A calamity is the sum of smaller mistakes, that meet each other in a perfect circumstancially shitstorm!" ... never heard this item better explained. It.s gorgeous! Thanks a lot for this kind of thinking!! Kind regards, Henry
When we did Ladakh ride:: Delhi-Goa ride.. with buddies definitely there was a lot of problem's.
Please think atleast three time before riding with stranger's and people with different mind-set.
pressure does build up if you have a tight schedule ... Please understand It's not the destination It's the Journey that matter's.
AbdurRahman Usmani I’ve found that every person added increases the problems by a power of 10, lol.
All makes good sense! I met another rider in Romania 13 years ago, we rode together for a few days and I visited him on my way back to Germany. Since then we have done a tour every year (except 2020 due to covid). Relaxed travel, sometimes 250 km in a day sometimes 700 or more. We plan one day in advance but have a pretty good idea where we are going. He is flexible, I am flexible (I'm pretty sure I am!). For us, a perfect travelling arrangement. We are always there to help each other out, watch bikes etc. etc. Couldn't be better as far as we are concerned.... Hopefully 2021 will see us on the road again. Keep up the sage advice!
Excellent points! I have been riding bikes since ‘72. It is great when able to ride with someone who has the same riding style, but very rare.
I’m so glad i found you’re video, thank you so much for making this. Kind regards.
Thank you!!! Loved it!
Great points from an experienced tourer. Did a 3 day ride w/a friend on a Harley. Worst thing was that he was so worried about rain it definitely caused stress for both of us. We did finish our ride, but never going out w/him again. I’ve done a lot of distance riding working events, etc, but always with other experienced riders, usually on BMWs, which are made for long haul riding. Thanks again!
My best experiences have been with my son and daughter, two-up on one bike for a long road trip, and with my wife and me riding separate bikes. I have ridde in large groups for veteran rides and rolling thunder, but that is different then going on a long tour with people you may barely know… I prefer a small, very tight family or best friend type group to a large organized tour.
I definitely do a lot of these mistakes. Make goals, and get caught up in reaching them instead of enjoying the ride. Thanks for making this, gonna make me into a better adventurer.
Thanks for the video. I haven't gone yet as I just got my first bike late in the summer and rode it to get used to and learn to ride so your video was very insightful. As far as riding solo vs in a group I think both would be fun if to get my preference figured out. Stay safe!
As a kiwi living in Canada, I can appreciate the cost of sending packages between countries. My daughter sent a $20 Hoodie to her Grandad in New Zealand, at a cost of $100.... I couldn't say no because she thought he would like like it... but damn you Canada Post!
Real good sense fella
Most tip videos are shite. This certainly wasn't!
Great points, excellent delivery, thank you for the tips...
😍 I can't stop watching. I'm legitimately awestruck every episode. You are a formidable force Noraly. 💪🏼🤪