Have you already planned a longer tour for this season – maybe even the annual holiday? Just let the wind blow in your face for several days, enjoy great curves and in the evening chat a bit with like-minded people? This is motorcycling at its finest.
The technical requirements
Of course, the two-wheeler must be checked 1A in advance for the trip:
· Tires still okay and with enough profile for the long tour?
· Oil and brake fluid checked, possibly due inspection carried out?
· Checking and possible replacement of all wearing parts?
· Chassis set for more luggage and possibly a passenger?
· Equipment complete?
Then nothing stands in the way of the long-awaited tour from the technical side.
The human factor: Fit for the motorcycle
Unfortunately, one aspect – perhaps even the most important – is often underestimated or simply forgotten: What about the driver? Is your physical fitness sufficient to survive a long trip well and relaxed? Because one thing is clear – motorcycling is sport. Unusual heights at Alpine passes, high temperatures in the valley or constant rain on arrival can really take a toll on the untrained body and make the holiday trip a strain. In addition, there is a gradual dehydration, because in the intoxication of the curves, drinking is simply not enough.
Tips for long tours
That’s why the following applies: Get your body going before your tour. Start training at least a few weeks beforehand. Swimming or walking and moderate strength training do wonders here. A check-up at the doctor’s can’t hurt either. In addition, all the necessary medicines and a first-aid kit, which protects against the most common ailments, are in your carry-on luggage. On the tour itself, make sure you take sufficient and regular breaks. Drink a lot – calculate with 5 ml of drink per hour and kilo of body weight. That’s ¼ liter per hour for a person weighing 50 kg! Light snacks keep you focused. If the bike is then perfectly adjusted to the rider, nothing stands in the way of fun in the curves.
You should pay attention to this:
· Ergonomic and relaxed sitting position – no hollow back
· Palms in a straight extension from forearm
· Lay your hands on them loosely – do not support them
· Levers correctly spaced
So drive for hours!
