Motorcycle Camping
When you need to put some blacktop between you and the stress of normal life, a motorcycle camping trip is a great solution. Motorcycle camping is especially enjoyable if you like a degree of solitude. Camping and motorcycle riding are a natural fit, and you should consider giving it a shot if you’re a bike owner that’s never tried it before. If you’ve never traveled with your motorcycle before, there are a few things worth keeping in mind. This short guide will teach you some of the basics of motorcycle camping. If you’re looking to purchase a motorcycle or if you need parts and services for your bike, stop by Rallye Motoplex. We proudly serve the areas of Saint John, Bathurst, and New Brunswick from our Moncton dealership and showroom.
Cargo
When camping, you have to bring everything you need, which means you’ll need some cargo room. There are many options on the market, so try to find the solution that’s best for your bike. If you like the look of a vintage bagger, pick up some leather saddlebags. They’re often spacious and look amazing. You will have to take care of the leather though, which requires a little bit of extra attention. If you don’t want to put up with the maintenance, hard sided saddlebags are another good option. They wash up the same as any other part of your bike and offer just as much space as the leather version. Plus, most models can be locked up to keep your possessions secure. A top-side box is another good option that’s handy even when you aren’t traveling. Most models are designed to hold an entire helmet, so if you’re commuting to the office, you won’t have to lug your helmet around with you.
Invest in Good Camping Gear
In addition to needing sufficient cargo room, you’ll also need quality camping gear. The best camping gear for motorcycle camping is backpacking gear because it’s designed to be lightweight and compact. An ultralight sleeping bag will pack up to a size that’s not much bigger than a volleyball. A quality tent is another crucial purchase. Try to find the most compact model available. A water filter will make it so you won’t have to pack your own water into the campsite, which is helpful because water can be extremely bulky and heavy. Make sure you bring some way to cook, whether it’s a camp stove or a metal rack to keep pots from the cooking fire.
Packing Tips
How you pack will determine in part how your bike rides. Try to pack the heaviest items as low on the bike as possible to lower the bike’s center of gravity. A low center of gravity will improve handling. If possible, take food and equipment out of its larger boxes and leave only the inner protective wrapping, as packaging material is often bulky and unnecessary. Try to avoid bringing things you can pick up along the way because the less you have to pack, the easier it will be to ride and the more room you will have for critical items. Pick up a dry bag for packing your wardrobe. These bags are flexible, durable, and totally waterproof. Plus, they’re easy to strap onto your luggage rack.
Trip Planning
As with any camping trip, you’ll want to do some planning ahead of time to make sure you bring everything you need. If you’re planning on camping at a campsite, consider making a reservation ahead of time with the camp manager so you can make sure you don’t arrive at a full campground. Make sure your packing list is complete because it might be difficult to find some items when you get away from towns. It’s also important to let someone back home know where you’re going and how long you plan on being there so that if something happens, someone will be able to call for help as soon as possible.
Motorcycle camping is lots of fun if you prepare correctly and bring the right gear. Stop by Rallye Motoplex if you need parts or maintenance for your motorcycle. We’re located in Moncton, New Brunswick, near Saint John, Bathurst, Charlottetown, and Fredericton.