So you've booked your first adventure motorcycle tour, awesome! It will be an incredible experience, but preparation is vital to ensuring safety and enjoyment, whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting. So, let’s get into it!
THE CORNERMAN SYSTEM
The Cornerman system will make the day flow easily, so you don’t need to worry about navigation. Here’s how it works:
Lead and Sweep Riders: You’ll have a lead rider who sets the pace at the front and sweep riders at the back. They keep an eye on everyone and solve any issues to ensure nobody gets left behind. You can pass other riders during the ride, but you should never pass the lead rider.
Assigning Cornermen: The rider behind the lead will become the next cornerman when directed by the lead, usually by pointing at the corner they are about to turn. The cornerman’s job is to chill out at the intersection and guide the rest of the tour until they are relieved by a sweep rider. Some tours will run a mid-sweep to keep riders moving.
What do you do?: Simply look out for and follow the cornerman’s directions. It’s all about keeping the group together and moving smoothly.
Signalling Directions: As a cornerman, you’ll want to signal the direction clearly. Use your hands for obvious gestures. You can also position your bike in the intended direction, and indicators can help. Most importantly, ensure you are visible to approaching riders. Stop ahead of the turn rather than around the corner.
With the Cornerman system, you can focus on enjoying the ride instead of stressing about navigation. It’s a simple system that works great if everyone follows it correctly.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Now that you know how to navigate, what can you expect on the tour? First, be ready to go on time. The tour operator will set a departure time, so prepare well ahead. Start your bike early in the morning to ensure everything runs smoothly.
At the end of each day, check your bike and lubing the chain is a good idea. If you notice anything that worries you, talk to the tour operator. Don’t wait until right before departure!
You’ll need a fuel range of at least 200 km, and always arrive at the start with a full tank. Consider bringing a fuel bladder if you’re unsure of making that range.
If you have mechanical issues, tours offer different levels of support, but most will get you to the next point. Once you reach town at the end of the day, you must arrange transport home if your bike can’t continue on the tour. While this level of mechanical failure is rare, it’s worth having a contingency plan just in case.
GEAR TO TAKE
Let’s get into the gear you’ll need. There’s the obvious stuff like your helmet and gloves, but some sturdy MX or adventure-style boots will keep those ankles safe. A long-sleeved jacket and full-coverage pants are a must, too. Sunscreen and a hat will keep you from getting sunburnt during breaks. Bring spare gloves! Switching between a winter and a summer pair can make all the difference as the temperature changes.
And don’t forget to pack a change of clothes for the pub at night—because after a long day of riding, you’ll want to kick back and relax.
Make sure to bring some snacks and water. I always look forward to munching on Strawberries and Creams during breaks! If you have a GoPro, pack it with a spare battery! It’s great for capturing those unforgettable moments. Also, just in case, don’t forget a first aid kit, a spare bike key, and some spare clutch and brake levers. You don’t want to write off the trip with a simple drop in the carpark.
PREPPING THE BIKE
If you’re doing the work yourself, check everything you’d typically look at during a service: fluid levels, brake pads, play in the bearings and tyre condition. Having at least 50/50 or even 30/70 road/off-road tyres is crucial. You want to be prepared for adverse weather!
Also, carry some essential spares and tools to make repairs and what you need for a tyre change. Check if your bike has tube or tubeless wheels. Flat tyres can happen to anyone at any time.
All motorcycles come with a basic tool kit, but it’s a good idea to go over your bike and look at what nuts, bolts and screws hold it together so that if you need to do repairs out on the road, you’ve got the right sized tool to fit it. An essential tool kit should also include;
Spare clutch and brake lever
A few cable ties, heavy duty and thin
IMPORTANT PREPARATIONS
Before the tour, ensure you’ve booked your accommodation if it’s not included. You don’t want to scramble at the last minute, and people tend to stay in the same place so that it might book out!
Check your travel insurance—make sure it includes ambulance cover. Things can go wrong, even on domestic trips, and you want to avoid hefty bills.
If you don’t maintain your bike, it’s a good idea to have it serviced well ahead of time and take it on a quick ride afterwards. This way, you’ll know everything was done right, and your bike will be ready for the adventure.
Don’t forget to bring cash for food and fuel, as those are at your own cost.
RIDING TIPS
A tour is an excellent opportunity to build your confidence around other riders. Still, everyone rides at a different pace, so don’t feel pressured to go faster than you’re comfortable with. Accidents happen when you push your limits too far, so listen to your instincts and ride within your skill level.
When passing other bikes, take caution and ensure you’re well past them before getting back on the gas to avoid throwing stones. And most importantly, keep left on the roads! We’ll share the path with cars and 4WDs; those bull bars aren’t forgiving.
PREPARE FOR FUN
Prepare your gear, get your bike ready, and keep safety in mind. With the right mindset and a little preparation, you’re set to enjoy an incredible adventure.
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