Every great motorcycle trip planning begins with the spark of an idea, typically 4-6 weeks before the journey’s start. It starts with a destination, a point on the map that calls out to you and your riding companions.
Like my own unforgettable journey to the Tail of the Dragon, which began on my birthday amidst a thunderstorm, aiming for one of the best burger spots in Moonshine, Illinois. The thrill of riding through the Smoky Mountains for the first time on my favorite bike, a 1978 Honda Goldwing, still resonates with me.
This blog post is more than just a guide; it’s your compass to navigating the thrilling path of trip planning. The moment you choose a destination, you embark on the first leg of your adventure, crafting experiences that will resonate with you and your group long after the engines cool down.
Keep the spirit of adventure alive, and remember –
bikes, friends, and endless roads – the stories ride forever.
Planning is not just a necessity; it’s the heartbeat of your journey, setting the rhythm for the experiences to come. It’s about finding those perfect roads that make your heart race, and the unforgettable stops that fill your soul – from breathtaking views to the warmth of shared meals and the comfort of a welcoming place to rest at day’s end.
Let’s dive into the tools and tips that make planning not just simple, but part of the adventure itself. It’s time to gear up, plot your course, and anticipate the unforgettable stories you’ll soon be telling.
Section 0: Pre-Trip Decisions
Before you rev your engines and hit the open road, some crucial decisions lay the groundwork for an epic motorcycle adventure. This initial stage is where your journey takes shape, starting with the all-important choice of destination.
For the purpose of this guide, let’s set our sights on Cave-In-Rock, Illinois – a hidden gem that promises to be the centerpiece of your road tale.
Well say we are starting from Kansas City; you need to think about the duration of your trip. For this blog – we will just use a 4-day ride – two days to immerse yourself in the journey to Cave-In-Rock, a day to explore the local area and its unique allure, and a day for the ride back.
Considerations for a Well-Rounded Trip:
- Group Preferences: Ensure your plans resonate with your crew. Is there a scenic route someone’s been longing to try, or a historic site that piques the group’s interest? This trip is about collective enjoyment.
- Pacing: Balance is key. Plan a route that allows you to enjoy the ride without feeling hurried. Remember, it’s as much about the journey as it is the destination.
- Backup Plans: Always have a plan B. Weather, road closures, or unexpected events can necessitate a quick change in plans. Flexibility can turn challenges into adventures.
- Rider Experience: Tailor your route to match the skill and comfort levels of all riders. Safety and enjoyment go hand in hand.
Your pre-trip decisions lay the foundation for a journey that’s enjoyable, safe, and memorable for everyone involved. Next, we’ll dive into how to research and pinpoint the best spots and routes for your adventure for the best motorcycle trip planning.
Section 1: The Research Roadmap
Planning a motorcycle trip is like putting together the pieces of a puzzle. It’s all about finding the perfect mix of great rides and cool places to stop. Let’s get started on planning your trip to Cave-In-Rock, Illinois.
State and National Parks:
First, check out what parks are on your way. Kansas and Illinois might not have big national parks, but they do have state parks and historic sites worth seeing. Don’t forget to take a look at the Gateway Arch National Park in Missouri, especially if you haven’t been there before. Use online lists like the ones on Wikipedia to find state parks in the states you’ll pass through.
Physical Maps:
Note – the links below to specific maps are to Amazon. I like to look at the right side – there are many times offers to buy used versions of these…they are perfect, almost always in great shape and way cheaper than new.
A trusty map is a rider’s best friend. Consider the National Geographic Road Atlas for its detailed scenic routes, or grab some durable, laminated state maps for on-the-go use. Mark them up with personal notes to make your journey more personal. And don’t forget, buying used maps can save you a few bucks!
Other Maps, Guides and Books
“Road Trip USA” is a book with you in mind – its for motorcycles by motorcyclists. There are many books like this available – and can be an essential guide for motorcyclists seeking unique cross-country adventures. It has a focus on America’s scenic byways – these have rich historical and cultural insights. Note, it will focus on two-lane highways – is perfect for when you are looking for routes less traveled.
Maps and Site: Butler, Freeman and Harley
For those who prefer physical maps, Butler and Freeman offer detailed insights with a rider’s perspective. For a more digital approach, Harley Davidson’s map site provides an interactive experience, though it might take some digging to find those hidden routes.
Laminated State Maps
These practical, weather-resistant maps are perfect for rugged road use. Their waterproof feature ensures they can withstand any riding condition, making them a reliable guide for your journey.
Uncovering Local Secrets:
The best spots aren’t always the most famous ones. Search local blogs and travel sites for tips on hidden gems. You might find a great lookout spot or a small diner with amazing food.
Cultural Stops:
Add some variety to your trip with cultural or historical places. Museums, old battlefields, or art can give you a cool break from riding and show you something new about the places you’re visiting.
Plan a Good Mix:
Make sure you don’t cram too many stops into one day. Spread out the attractions to keep a nice balance between riding and exploring. Plan so that everyone has enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
With these tools and tips, you’re ready to map out a trip that’s not just a ride, but a journey filled with stories waiting to happen.
Section 2: Motorcycle Mapping Tools for Motorcycle Trip Planning
Now that you’ve gathered a list of must-visit spots for your Cave-In-Rock adventure, it’s time to bring everyone together for a pre-trip meeting. This is where all voices need to be heard – it’s crucial for ensuring everyone is on board with the plan.
Organizing Your Route:
With your list of waypoints and top roads, let’s start piecing the journey together. Organize everything in chronological order and keep in mind the fuel range of each bike in your group. This ensures no one is left stranded and makes the ride smooth for everyone.
Choosing Your Mapping Tool:
Selecting the right navigation tool is key to a hassle-free journey. Your choice should sync well with your gear and preferences.
Garmin Basecamp:
For those who prefer detailed planning, Garmin BaseCamp is a solid choice. It lets you create customized routes, waypoints, and tracks on your computer, and then transfer them to your Garmin device. It’s great for riders who love diving into the details of topographic data and elevation profiles.
Google Maps with Car Play/Android Auto:
Google Maps is a favorite for its accuracy and real-time updates. Though it has a limitation on waypoints per route, you can work around this by creating multiple maps for different journey segments.
The real advantage comes in when pairing Google Maps with Car Play or Android Auto on your bike. This setup offers seamless integration, allowing you to access navigation, music, and communication tools hands-free. You get the benefit of turn-by-turn directions and voice guidance, enhancing the overall riding experience.
One downside is Google Maps’ lack of options for specifying road types, like curvy or gravel-free routes. However, with some clever planning, you can still map out an enjoyable route.
Exploring Alternate Options:
While we’re familiar with certain apps, we’re always open to learning about others. If you’ve used any of these and want to share your experience, reach out to us.
- My-Route App: A flexible route planning app for Apple and Android that allows for easy route creation and customization.
- REVER: Ideal for socially connected riders, offering extensive pre-planned routes and live location sharing.
- Waze: Great for real-time road conditions and traffic updates, with a community-driven approach.
- Scenic Motorcycle Navigation: Perfect for riders seeking twisty, scenic routes and offers features like offline navigation and ride tracking.
- Furkot.com: A comprehensive web-based planner that suggests stops, estimates travel times, and helps find accommodations.
Conclusion: Ready to Roll – Motorbike Trip Plan
As your planning wraps up – you and your crew are on the brink of an unforgettable journey. You built meticulously planned routes and carefully chosen stops, you’re not just prepared; you’re poised for an adventure that will create lasting memories.
Remember, the essence of a motorcycle trip lies in the balance of careful planning and the spontaneity of the open road. Embrace the unexpected detours and the new stories they bring. Each twist and turn, each new horizon, is an opportunity to strengthen bonds with your fellow riders and deepen your love for the ride.
So gear up, throttle on, and let the spirit of adventure guide you.