Plan the trip based upon time and funds available, as well as the time of year. Generally speaking, plan for two hours to travel each 100 miles while on a motorcycle. Using this calculation, it will take approximately eight hours to ride 400 miles. Use this guideline when planning for places to stop each night.
Consider staying in a bed-and-breakfast instead of a roadside motel. They are generally biker-friendly and can provide information about the local region.
Use a high-quality map or GPS. It will pay-off in the end, especially if you are planning a route that travels "off the beaten path."
Bring an assortment of tools to perform roadside repairs that might pop-up. At a minimum, have wrenches, screwdrivers, electrical tape and wire available. The more riding experience you have, the more you will learn exactly what to take for an emergency.
Acquire good-quality wet weather gear for the trip. Brief showers may be refreshing in the summer, but a long, hard days travel through the rain can put a damper on anyone's motorcycle trip. That's where a good motorcycle rainsuit comes in very handy. Beware of cheap, lightweight gear that is not intended to be worn while riding. This gear can and will shred at high-speed, necessitating a stop to purchase another one.
Plan to wear a D.O.T. approved helmet. Many states have different laws regarding motorcycle safety apparel, so check the laws for each state through which you plan to travel. Wearing a helmet can also serve to reduce rider fatigue.
Take your leathers with you. Temperatures can change rapidly when the sun goes down, especially at altitude. A leather jacket can cut the wind and keep you warm.
