38 RIDE WITHIN YOUR ABILITIES
of gravity and can upset its balance.
• If you use saddlebags, load each
with about the same weight.
An uneven load can cause the
motorcycle to pull to one side.
Overloading may also cause the
bags to catch in the wheel or chain,
locking the rear wheel and causing
the motorcycle to skid.
• Fasten the load securely with
elastic cords (bungee cords or
nets). Elastic cords with more than
one attachment point per side are
recommended. A loose load could
catch in the wheel or chain, causing
it to lock up, resulting in a skid.
Rope can stretch and knots can
come loose, permitting the load to
shift or fall. You should stop and
check the load often to make sure it
has not shifted or loosened.
• Include a small tool kit and some
common spare parts that you might
need. Water and some energy bars
or other food should also be part of
your preparation, and don’t forget
a first aid kit, especially if you are
riding in a group.
Pre-Ride Test
Prior to starting out, take a test
ride with your fully loaded motorcycle
through some familiar neighborhood
roads to get a feel for the operation of
your motorcycle. Be sure the suspension
settings are correct, and that the side
stand, footrests, and exhaust pipes don’t
scrape over bumps and in turns. Ensure
the tank bag does not get in the way of
the handlebars or restrict the steering.
Also check the security of the load, so
that your luggage does not hit you in
the back under maximum braking.
You will also find that the perfor-
mance of a fully loaded motorcycle will
be different than what you are used to.
Test the power when accelerating and
be aware that it will be lower, increas-
ing passing times and distances. Braking
will also feel different, and stopping
distances may increase.
GROUP RIDING
Preparation
Preparing yourself for a group ride
is as important as making sure your
motorcycle is ready. Riding with a group
requires an alert mind that is free from
worries, distractions and stress. It also
means riding free from the influence of
alcohol or drugs. For some, even too
much caffeine or prescription drugs can
adversely affect concentration.
Prior to a long trip, it’s a good idea to
have your motorcycle serviced at your
local dealership if you aren’t able to do
the work yourself. A thorough pre-
ride check is a must. Use the T-CLOCS
checklist as a reminder of the important
components to check before you leave.
Remember to consider such variables
as passengers and extra weight from
cargo that might require a change in tire
pressure or suspension adjustment.
Plan
Before starting out, hold a rider’s
meeting to discuss the route, length of
riding segments, rest stops and locations
for fuel, meals and lodging. Make sure
everyone knows the route. That way,
if someone becomes separated, he or
she won’t have to hurry to keep from
getting lost or making the wrong turn.
Choose a lead rider and a sweep rider.
These should be the most experienced
riders of the group. The lead rider
should look ahead for changes in road,
traffic or weather conditions, and signal
early so the word gets back in plenty
of time to the other riders. The sweep
rider is the last rider in the group, and
sets the pace for the group. Place
inexperienced riders just behind the