Are you dreaming of hitting the open road on your motorcycle for an unforgettable adventure? A motorcycle road trip is the perfect way to explore new places, meet new people, and experience the thrill of the ride. But before you set off, there are a few things you need to know to make your journey a success.
In this guide, we'll show you how to plan the ultimate motorcycle road trip, from the best routes to the gear you need to pack. Hopefully, whether you’re planning a ride with friends, or if you’re planning on going solo, you’ll be ready for the best adventure yet!
No road trip is complete without a great route, and when it comes to motorcycle road trips, there are plenty of amazing options. Whether you're looking for scenic views, twisty roads, or historic landmarks, there's a route out there that's perfect for you.
Here are some of the best motorcycle routes near Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson:
Outer Banks Scenic Byway: The Outer Banks Scenic Byway takes you along the North Carolina coast, providing beautiful ocean views and a chance to explore the barrier islands. From Raleigh, head east on U.S. Route 64 and then follow the signs to the Outer Banks. This route takes you through charming coastal towns, across bridges, and offers opportunities to visit historic lighthouses.
To plan your route, you can use the H-D app, which offers maps, turn-by-turn directions, and points of interest along the way. The Homecoming™ Festival Map is another useful tool that can help you find the best routes and attractions into Milwaukee, WI.
No matter where you’re headed, be sure to plan your gas stops and double-check that they’re all currently open. It becomes a real adventure when you roll up on E and the pump is closed! You may also want to pack extra fuel to avoid this situation.
When you're on a motorcycle road trip, packing efficiently is crucial. You don't want to be weighed down by unnecessary gear or risk forgetting something important. Here's a packing list to get you started:
Remember to be prepared for all types of weather. Layers provide the best range of options, for example, short-sleeve shirt + long-sleeve or moisture-wicking shirt + sweatshirt + light jacket + heavy leather jacket. Layer up as it cools down or remove layers when it heats up. Pack rain gear and check the forecast before you leave. When it comes to gear that makes a difference, a comfortable and supportive seat, a windshield or fairing, and a Bluetooth communicator can all enhance your riding experience.
You know the gear you want to bring - but how much do you pack and where are you going to put it on your bike? Here are some tips for making the most of your limited space.
Once you’ve packed your gear, you’ll want to make sure you have your bike's tools and accessories for the road.
Before you hit the road, it's important to ensure your bike is in top condition. Here's a checklist of bike adjustments and key service items you should take care of:
In addition to these service items, you should also bring along a tool kit that includes essential tools and spare parts, such as a tire repair kit, spark plugs, fuses, and ZIP TIES.
It’s important to think through HOW and WHERE you are going to carry all of this gear on your motorcycle. Also how comfortable you want to be. Touring-style motorcycles come equipped with a fairing/windshield/saddlebags - but any motorcycle can be modified for long-haul road tripping. Here are some things to think about depending on the type of motorcycle you ride:
If you have any questions about service or parts that you need to get ready for your trip, schedule an appointment with our service department.
America's national parks are some of the most stunning and iconic natural landscapes in the world, and a motorcycle road trip is the perfect way to explore them. Here are the 3 National Parks worth visiting from Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located approximately 3 hours northwest of Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. The park features scenic mountain roads, such as the famous Newfound Gap Road, which offers breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. With its diverse wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and numerous hiking trails, this national park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Pisgah National Forest: Located approximately 2 hours west of Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, Pisgah National Forest offers an excellent destination for motorcycle trips. The forest features scenic byways and winding roads, including the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs through the heart of the forest. Riders can enjoy the lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views along the way.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Cape Hatteras National Seashore is located about 3 hours southeast of Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. While not a traditional national park, it is managed by the National Park Service. This coastal area offers a unique motorcycle trip experience, with scenic coastal roads, beautiful beaches, and historic lighthouses. Riders can enjoy the ocean views, visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and explore the unique coastal ecosystems.
Once you’ve got your destination picked out, here are some tips for visiting national parks on your motorcycle road trip:
Some of the most popular national parks to visit on a motorcycle road trip include Yosemite, Glacier National Park, Yellowstone, and Zion. When planning your trip, be sure to check park regulations and closures, as well as any required permits for camping or backcountry travel.
Motorcycle camping has become a popular way to travel across the country on two wheels. Although its historic roots go way back, moto camping has evolved over the years and there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
If you plan on camping on your motorcycle road trip, there are a few things you should consider. First, make sure you have the right gear, including a lightweight and compact tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. You may want/need a small camp stove and cooking utensils, as well as a water filter or purification tablets.
Here are some of our favorite items:
As for where to stay, there are many options for motorcycle camping, from established campgrounds to backcountry sites. KOA campgrounds are a popular choice, as they offer amenities like showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi. National park campgrounds are also a great option, as they often have stunning views and easy access to hiking trails.
If you decide to go this route, it’s a lot of fun with friends, but can still be an awesome adventure solo. There are many inspirational people out there on YouTube sharing their adventures and their tips and tricks for solo travel.
Check out these moto bloggers for some inspiration:
If you're interested in motorcycle camping with Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson, come on out for our annual Run to the Ridge event!
No road trip is complete without a great playlist, and a motorcycle road trip is no exception. Here are some playlists we love for the open road:
Of course, everyone's taste in music is different, so don't be afraid to ask your community for their favorite riding tunes. Planning a ride with your friends? Create a shared playlist for everyone to build out prior to leaving. It’s a good way to get hyped for your upcoming trip AND discover new music to ride to!
If you're looking for a way to connect with other riders and experience the thrill of a motorcycle rally, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the must-attend events for riders in 2023:
- Daytona Bike Week, Daytona Beach, Florida
- Harley-Davidson Homecoming™ Festival, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Sturgis, South Dakota
- Laconia Motorcycle Week, Laconia, New Hampshire
- Myrtle Beach Bike Week, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Be sure to check with Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson for more information about more localized dealership events and local rallies in your area. These events are a perfect time to link up with friends and plan rides to and from the event.
Before we wrap up, here are a few additional tips to help you make the most of your motorcycle road trip:
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be able to enjoy the freedom and exhilaration of a motorcycle road trip without any unnecessary stress or complications.
A motorcycle road trip is an experience unlike any other, offering the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and push your limits as a rider. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make your next motorcycle road trip a success and create memories that will last a lifetime. So get out there and hit the open road – the adventure awaits!