With years of experience in motorcycle touring we have encountered many situations, good and bad. Some situations  we were prepared for and they became just a minor inconvience. Other situations took us by surprise, we were not prepared to handle them and  their occurance put a real damper on the day. We have learned from our experiences and we'd like to share our learning with you, so you can be prepared to handle most situations that occure while on the road.  Here is our list of 10 essential items that every motorcyclist should have along on their ride.

1. Tools

   Things can rattle loose when you're on the road.  It's important to have a tool kit along.  Even the bare-essentials EconoKit M2 by Cruz Tools  is a big improvement over the OEM tools that came with your bike. For a little more, the EconoKit M1  will equip you to handle just about any roadside-repairable situation. Because electrical issues can just as easily ruin your ride, we recommend including an inexpensive multimeter in your toolkit. 

2. First Aid Kit

    

   A small  First Aid Kit  containing an assortment of bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, forceps, and latex-free gloves is a must. It also should include several medications including analgesics, anti-diarrhea medication and antihistamines. We also like to include a small package of moist wipes, these can cool you down when you're hot, clean you up and double as toilet paper if you have to pull over in the woods to go.

3. Extra Clothing

   Keeping your body at a comfortable temperature is important to your safety. Layers are the key. Start with a base layer of polyester or microfiber. These materials will wick moisture away and keep you comfortable in the saddle. The next layer provides warmth. Cotton, fleece or wool are good choices. Finally, an outer layer of leather or breathable textile to protect from the wind or rain. By varying the middle layer you can keep your body temperature in a comfortable range without sacrificing protection or comfort. Always have gloves available and keep an extra pair of dry socks in a plastic baggie. Wet feet can make for a miserable ride.

4. Flashlight or Headlamp

   A small, AA-battery powered flashlight can do wonders on a dark night. A headlamp puts the light right where you're looking and leaves both of your hands free to work. Whatever light source you get, don't forget to include an extra set of batteries.

5. Rain Gear

   When choosing rain gear choose something reflective and highly visibile. Get a storage bag for it and keep it on your bike at all times.  

6. Water

   Dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are all very real dangers to motorcyclists. Don't leave home without a few bottles of water, a canteen or a CamelBak hydration pack  to replenish what your body loses. If you don't need to use the restroom every  time you fill your motorcycle with gas, then you are probably not drinking enough water. Avoid coffee and soda, they don't help. Plain water is best, although Gatorade can help to relieve muscle cramps.

7. Map and Compass (or GPS)

   A GPS unit is a popular accessory for motorcyclists. Still, for all the convenience that a GPS unit offers, we don't consider it an essential item and sometimes they are wrong. An Atlas or Plain old paper map and a compass take up almost no space and you never have to worry about batteries. We always travel with the HD Ride Atlas of North America. It helps us plan as we go by showing scenic routes for all the states.

8. Cellphone

   Sometimes the best thing to do is phone home. Or a friend with a truck or trailer to come pick you and the bike up. Or, in the event of an emergency, call 911. Sure, cell phones don't work everywhere, but they work enough places that it makes sense to carry one for safety if not simple convenience. Make sure to program in the number for your insurance company and roadside assistance.

9. Sun Protection and Sun Glasses

   On the bike or off, it's easy for any exposed skin to get sunburned. Riding into the sunrise or sunset can also be hard on the eyes. A layer of sunscreen, minmum SPF 30, and some good sunglasses will go a long way toward avoiding a painful sunburn or headache. Make sure to reapply sunscreen everytime you stop for gas.

10. Trail Food

    A light snack can ward off hunger and help keep you alert on a long ride. Beef Jerky, energy bars or trail mix are good, high-energy snacks that pack well, take up little space and hold up well in a saddlebag.

All of these things can be easily fit into a saddlebag or tank bag yet will provide you with peace of mind and the gear you need in a pinch. By keeping the items on the list in you riding kit you too can Be Prepared.

Leah & Ronald Lind