With summer in full swing, there’s never been a better time to load up your two-wheeled companion and camp under the stars with a couple of mates. Here are a few essential tips that will set you up for motorcycle camping!
1. Understand Your Bike
Knowing the ins and outs of your ride is a must. At the very least, owners should be able to perform basic maintenance, like checking tyre pressures, oil levels and lever adjustments. Plan ahead and pack a basic tool kit, such as the Xtech Travel Tool Kit.
This kit comes with a great range of handy equipment, that will get you out of trouble in times of need. Better yet, the kit’s designed to comfortably fit under most rear motorcycle seats, so you’ll always have it on hand.
Special Mention: It's also a good idea to learn How To Repair A Tubeless Motorcycle Tyre. You never know when you’ll find an annoying nail or screw residing in your tyre.
2. Pack Light
Be diligent and plan exactly what you need to pack. Ask yourself… Is this really essential?
Items you bring on your trip away differ from rider to rider, yet the most common items that should be on your list are food, cooking utensils, clothes, toiletries, first aid, torch, matches, water and sleeping equipment (tent/swag/tarp).
You are limited to the space on your bike, so outline an essential checklist and stick to it!
3. Load Your Motorcycle Correctly
Balance is key! There’s no doubt your bike will gain some weight due to the added luggage onboard, so best distribute that weight evenly.
The general rule for loading your motorcycle is trying to get the heaviest items closest to the centre of gravity. This allows for better mobility and control of a heavier vehicle.
A rack bag that offers fantastic luggage space, is the Rjays City Rack Bag. The little brother to Rjays Expandable Explorer Rack Bag, the City Rack Bag is 100% waterproof, lightweight and incredibly durable for tough trips away.
Special Mention: As a secondary precaution, pack a bungee cargo net to help keep any semi-loose items securely strapped down.
4. Get Travel Inspiration
It's tricky sometimes, working out exactly where to travel! Our friends at Throw Your Leg Over have explored some of Australia’s most extraordinary roads and locations, sharing them in a couple of Traveling Guide Books.
If you haven't already, we highly recommend you check out these Australian Travel Guides which also feature how they prepare and load their bike ‘Beauty’ for long-distance adventures.
Throw Your Leg Over
- Throw Your Leg Over SEQ & Northern NSW Edition 2
- Throw Your Leg Over Tasmania
5. Navigation
Once you’ve found the place to explore, the next challenge is how to get there. The obvious option is your smartphone. With countless Navigational Apps at your fingertips, your phone offers a world of knowledge and safety. Just make sure you keep your phone charged, so utilize a USB charging point (if your bike has one) or bring a Power Bank.
An easy solution to mount your phone on your bike is the Quad Lock mounting system. Simple to install, the Quad Lock allows your phone to be mounted on the handlebars of your bike, so that any Navigational directions illustrated via your phone, can be easily read by the rider.
If you are travelling to more remote regions, opt for a more Premium Navigational solution like a Garmin Zumo GPS System. Built for adventures, the Garmin Garmin offers motorcycle-specific GPS navigation that brings the excitement you want with the awareness you need.
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