Whether cruising Arizona on your Harley Road Glide, or Adventure Biking the Pyrenees on your 450 Himalayan, comfort is essential.
We’ve already put together a quick guide on what gear to bring on your adventure, so here are our tips for how to keep extra comfortable on the road.
Motorcycle Ergonomics
Even a Goldwing isn’t comfortable after 10 hrs unless set up correctly. Before setting off, make sure the distance between you and the handlebars, the footpegs, and the controls suits your riding position. Perfect posture reduces aches and minimizes fatigue.
Comfortable Seating
Be kind to your behind. A gel seat pad designed for touring will provide extra cushioning and support. Whatever support you use, the only rule is it mustn’t fall off. Throughout the ride, cycle through as many body positions as you can. Movement is key.
Highway pegs will allow for more positions to orientate your body. The key is to try and find what works for you!
Wind Protection
A windshield can reduce wind buffeting as well as rain, insects, and debris. But make sure it’s the right height. If a windshield is not at the right height for you and your seating position it can cause buffeting and redirect wind and other matter straight at your helmet. Test out the best position before you embark. Here is a very detailed article on windshield rider wind that we wrote a while back: https://scenic.app/windscreens-and-other-causes-solutions-for-noise-and-buffeting-in-motorcycle-helmets/
Proper Gear
Depending on where you ride, quality riding gear is breathable, waterproof, and offers protection from the elements. Make sure your gear fits well and allows for freedom of movement.
A sensibly tight motorcycle helmet needs to be broken in but changed when loose. Replace it after any impactful knock.
Typically, riders that live in areas with four seasons, try to find an outer jacket and pants that will suit all conditions, which is fine when you’re not far from home. However, if you’re heading to somewhere like Mexico or India during the hottest part of the year, pack light summer outerwear, possibly an Enduro jersey and ADV trousers with lots of vented pockets for good airflow.
Layered Clothing
This is a must if you’re taking on mountains or widely differing altitudes where conditions change to their extremes.
Starting with a moisture-wicking base layer is a smart move—it helps keep sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. From there, adding protection and insulating layers allows you to adjust to changing temperatures.
Here is an article we wrote on adventure vs enduro gear that might be helpful.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water throughout your ride. You can carry water in a hydration pack, or just pack a bottle somewhere in your tankbag or easy accessible luggage. If you stay on pavement only, a water bottle holder on your motorcycle could also be an option for you.
Take Breaks
Stretch your legs, relax your muscles, and rehydrate. Aim to stop every hour or so. Light snacks during these regular breaks keep your strength up and avoid that heavy-meal tiredness.
Taking 10 minutes to stretch at least once a day, and 5 minutes of light exercise, also keeps you awake back on the road as the sun bows out.
Ear Protection
We often don’t treat hearing damage as a serious risk until it’s too late. Like loud rock concerts or dance festivals, long rides can cause fatigue and hearing damage if not muted occasionally. So, wear earplugs for those longer and faster rides. Your hearing will thank you as you get older.
Stay Calm
Muscles tense when mentally stressed. Increasing fatigue and sore bodies. So don’t get stressed by the things you can’t control. Ride defensive and let other motorists tire themselves out getting to their destination.
Find routes that suit your style
This may seem common sense, but find a route that matches how you’re feeling.
If you’re feeling a little stiff or under the weather, don’t go looking for the twistiest, most challenging route. On the other hand, if you’re feeling good, why not challenge yourself? That’s the beauty of riding.
Max Your Comfort for a Bolder Adventure
When you’re feeling good, you don’t want to stop. Listen to your body, make adjustments as needed. Listen to the bike, learn every vibration: a new sound means inspection time. Before the big day, clock up some miles to acclimatize to longer days in the saddle, and shake down your gear..
Don’t worry if you miss a turn or need to get creative with the route.
