Vacation? That's fine. Some people prefer to "skip" the motorcycle in this heat, but the truth is that it's a good time to travel.
To begin with, you have more daylight hours. You can take advantage of the opportunity to ride through those high peaks or in the north, where in other seasons it's freezing cold.
Of course, trail bikes are currently the queens of the motorcycle world for this purpose. Less limited when it comes to choosing roads than a large GT, they're almost just as comfortable. Many of them are as fun as a sport bike on winding roads.
Traveling with a trail bike can be a great idea in summer | Voge
Go ahead and travel with it. However, to keep the trip from turning into a nightmare, you need to check certain aspects.
A modern trail bike doesn't differ much from any other motorcycle of its displacement in everyday use. However, when it comes to spending hours at the handlebars, crossing remote areas, or combining pavement and trails, there are elements that deserve more attention.
Before you start, remember a basic tip: make sure you have the necessary tools and enough experience to perform any inspection or adjustment.
If you're not sure, go to your trusted workshop. Many of these checks directly affect your safety and that of those traveling with you. Let these tips help you make sure the workshop has checked your motorcycle properly.
Choose a tire suitable for the use you are going to make of it | MM
1. Tires
They're the contact between your motorcycle and the ground, and a large part of your safety depends on them. On a long trip, with the motorcycle loaded and perhaps with a passenger, it's essential that the tires are in perfect condition. Also, that they're suitable for the intended use.
If you're only going to ride on pavement, a road tire will offer you better grip and greater driving precision. If your trip includes stretches of trail or dirt roads, you'll need a mixed model that offers traction on dirt without sacrificing too much on the road.
If a good part of the route will be off-road, a tire with a pronounced tread is indispensable. This way, the motorcycle grips securely, especially if we're talking about a trail bike that exceeds 441 lbs. (200 kg).
In recent years, the variety of trail tires has grown and improved notably. Let experts advise you to make the right choice and, if necessary, change the tires before you leave.
A new tire is always cheaper than an accident or a day lost looking for a workshop in the middle of your vacation.
The current trail tire offering is very diverse and extensive | Continental
2. Tire pressures
Just as important as the type of tire is the pressure at which it operates.
On the road, keep the pressures recommended by the manufacturer or those you usually use, always adjusted with good judgment. If you alternate with trails, you may need to lower the pressure a bit to gain traction, but remember to raise it again before returning to the pavement.
On a long trip, check the pressures every few days. Especially if there are sudden changes in temperature or altitude, since they directly affect them.
Carrying a small portable pressure gauge or even a manual pump can save you from riding for hundreds of miles with incorrect pressure.
Nowadays you also have small portable compressors with rechargeable batteries, perfect for this.
A checkup at the workshop can be a wise option | formulamoto
3. Rims and spokes
Many modern trail bikes come with spoked rims, which are more resistant to impacts and bumps than alloy ones.
If yours are external spokes, check after each day off-road that none are broken or loose.
If they're the traditional type, with an inner tube, make sure before the start of the trip. The inner rubber that covers the ends of the spokes must be in good condition. A spoke that sticks out can puncture the tube and leave you stranded.
Keeping the transmission kit in good condition is important before traveling | formulamoto
4. Transmission
If your motorcycle has a chain, clean and lubricate it before you leave, and carry spray grease to do it every few days or after riding in the rain or on dusty roads. On trail bikes with a shaft drive, also check the level and condition of the oil in the rear drive unit.
The transmission is a component that, if it fails, can leave you immobilized or even cause an accident. A pre-trip inspection and maintenance are simple and prevent problems.
Keep in mind where you're going to ride to adjust the suspension | Voge
5. Suspensions
On a long route, with saddlebags and luggage, the suspensions work harder. Adjust the preload to compensate for the extra weight and, if they're adjustable, adapt the compression and rebound to the type of terrain.
Off-road, softer suspensions will better absorb irregularities; on the road, firmer ones will give you stability in curves and braking.
Check that there are no oil leaks in the fork and keep the fork tubes and linkages clean, especially if you go through muddy areas.
Are you sure you want to take a risk with an old battery? | Formula Moto
6. Battery
Having the battery leave you stranded in the middle of a trip is a problem. If it happens to you in the middle of a remote trail while riding alone, it's a big problem. Don't go off-road with a battery at the end of its useful life.
Push-starting a motorcycle weighing more than 441 lbs. (200 kg) on sand, with a tire that doesn't grip well, is almost impossible. Rescuing it in the middle of a remote mountain isn't an easy task either.
Before you venture out, make sure the battery is in perfect condition to avoid being stranded by such a simple breakdown.
On long or challenging routes, never go alone. Try to go with at least one other motorcycle. If things go wrong, it's essential to have a way to call for help or get out of the area.
Learn how to use your motorcycle's electronics. It will make your life easier | formulamoto
7. Electronics and ABS
Modern trail bikes have riding modes, traction control, and switchable ABS. Although it may seem hard to believe, many people don't use these features.
Learn how to use them before the trip: switching between modes can transform the motorcycle from a road bike to an off-road bike in seconds, and disconnecting the ABS off-road can save you from scares.
A common mistake is forgetting to adjust these settings when changing terrain, which can lead to less effective braking on dirt or loss of traction on wet pavement. "There's a bush near here that bears my name, at the end of a descent. We got to know each other very well one day, going downhill with a GS, when I forgot to disconnect the ABS..."
Simply checking it would have avoided this "mess" | formulamoto
8. Controls, handlebars and footpegs
Check the proper functioning of cables, levers, and pedals. It's important to verify that they're well lubricated and that the cables don't have any loose strands. Adjust the handlebars and levers so you can ride comfortably standing up if the trip includes off-road sections.
If you use mixed footpegs with removable rubber, decide before you leave which configuration you'll use on each stage. In mud or with boots, the metal serrated ones offer better grip; on the road, the rubber is more comfortable.
Traveling with the right equipment makes the journey more comfortable | MM
9. You, the rider
Riding a large loaded trail bike on trails isn't the same as doing it on pavement. If your trip includes off-road sections, review your dirt riding skills.
Practicing beforehand in controlled areas can make the difference between enjoying or suffering on the trip. Specialized courses are a great option when they're at prestigious schools, and they'll teach you useful techniques for various situations.
Don't forget that the extra weight of luggage and fuel affects handling, especially in low-speed maneuvers.
Don't make your life complicated: let the difficult steps not exceed your level | Zontes
10. Equipment
A long trip requires proper gear: full-face or modular helmet, jacket and pants with protection, gloves, high boots, and, if possible, a back protector. The gear, as we all know, prevents injuries in falls, but in this case it's important even if you don't fall.
If you're going off-road, it's easy to accidentally kick a rock. Or hit a branch with your hand, the helmet, or end up leaning on your shoulder in a tricky spot.
It's very important to wear proper gear. Also, if you've chosen it well, it's more comfortable than other clothing.
Also bring clothing adapted to the climate you'll encounter. Include a cell phone with a charger for the motorcycle, GPS or physical maps, and sturdy mounts to keep them visible.
An accident or breakdown in a remote place will be easier to manage if you have a way to communicate and orient yourself.
Wash the motorcycle during refueling stops, especially if you have done off-road riding | formulamoto
11. Cleaning
Although it's not always easy while traveling, try to clean the motorcycle every few days, especially if you've ridden through mud or dusty areas. A quick cleaning prevents dirt from prematurely wearing out components like the transmission, suspensions, or brakes.
Keeping the motorcycle in good condition during the trip not only extends its useful life: it also makes you enjoy every mile more. It's easy and cheap when you refuel.
Check pads, discs... and fluid | Formula Moto
12. Brake system
Before you leave, check the thickness of the pads, the condition of the discs, and that there are no vibrations when braking. If you're going to alternate pavement and trails, remember that braking on dirt requires more finesse. Replacing worn pads before traveling is a minimal investment compared to the hassle of having to do it on the road.
Modern LED lights don't require as much inspection. However, it's still a good idea to check that they work | Voge
13. Lighting and visibility
On a long trip, you're likely to ride at night or in low-light conditions. Check that all the lights work properly, including low beams, high beams, turn signals, and taillight.
Consider installing auxiliary lights if the route includes rural or mountain areas. They can be useful and, in addition, on these motorcycles they usually look very good.
A well-tuned motorcycle helps you enjoy the ride. Don't forget the basic spare parts | formulamoto
14. Bolts and fasteners
Prolonged vibrations loosen bolts, especially on loaded motorcycles. Check crash bars, luggage racks, pannier mounts, windscreen, and mirrors. A simple pre-trip tightening can prevent an accessory from being lost or broken in the middle of the route.
Happy inspection and happy motorcycle holidays! | formulamoto
15. Tools and basic spare parts
Always carry a tool kit adapted to your motorcycle, spare fuses and bulbs, a tire repair kit or tubes, tire levers, and duct tape. They're lightweight, take up little space, and can save the day if a minor breakdown occurs far from a workshop.
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