What is a Motorcycle Run
Imagine taking an extreme road trip with all of your fiends to a far away oasis. That is as close to a motorcycle run as a car-dweller can get. A motorcycle run is a road trip for motorcyclists, but because motorcycles are used as the mode of transportation it's a lot more fun. Motorcycle runs have become well-known because of large motorcycle clubs like the Hell's Angels. Clubs like the Hell's Angels will ride for six to seven-hundred miles at a time, day after day in order to get to their desired destination. But these "runs" aren't for the weak and new riders, but for the more experienced and veteran riders.
Motorcycle runs are a big deal, so lots of preplaning should go into them. Preparing your motorcycle should be your number one priority. Every time you modify your motorcycle, you make it less and less reliable. Everything from renewing the engine to replacing gaskets alter the performance. You must know you bike and its limits. A lot of people look at things like gauges and tools as ways to ride better and go farther, but they are a tool. Not a crutch. An oil temperature gauge is good when you have to tell the insurance agent what the exact temperature was when your bike stopped running, but your thumb could have determined if it was too hot while you were riding. It's just best to plan ahead and know your bike.
A planned route is a good thing to have. Running into the sunset may seem like a good idea, until you need to get home. Have some sort of idea where you are going and know how to get back. It doesn't look to sexy on the side of the road looking at a map, do a little planning. I find a GPS a good tool (not crutch), but have never needed one on a motorcycle run. I just plan ahead. Highway signs have gotten good about telling you when you go through a town and how far it is to the next one. Don't be stupid.
Because many runs are overnight, you must plan ahead. Are you to stay in a hotel on the road or just camp out. Just as a suggestion to those going on their first run, pack light. A big bag of gear isn't needed and just gets in the way. On a FXRT, or similar model bike, you are more inclined to bring more stuff. Saddle bags are their to hold belongings, but don't get too carried away. I don't like the look of saddle bags, but so people do. I don't like them simply because I don't use them. But if you do use them, don't over do it. Pack as light as possible. Just warning you.
So don't just go jump on your bike and go do a run. Don't get carried away with tools and gauges. Don't push your bike where it doesn't need to go. just play it safe, and above all, have fun!
