You are on your own. You are not protected by two tons of steel, rubber, foam padding and safety glass. Neither are you steering two tons of guided missile toward other cars, people and property.

If you are prepared to accept the responsibility of your own actions, then motorcycling can be both safe and thrilling. Riding is an art as well as a craft and no amount of explanation can take the place of experience.

– Theresa Wallach

When you are riding on a motorbike, the above quote holds a lot of value for you. Your authority on the bike matters the same for your body as it matters for your image. And your authority is enforced by your riding position.

If you are riding the best motorbike available(or scooter if that’s your thing) and your riding position is not commanding, then it’s not just injustice to your body, it is injustice to the bike as well.

So after purchasing your bike, the first thing you need to learn before learning how to handle your bike, is how to sit on it.

The science of your body’s position on a bike and your bikes adjustment to it is known as motorcycle ergonomics.  The body position and behavior varies with the bike. Most bike ergos (such as handlebar height and suspension travel) can be adjusted but different bikes demand different riding positions. Here are the three most common riding positions.

Riding positions: How to sit on a motorcycle

The Standard Position

If you are riding a standard bike, and using it mostly for your daily routings then this is the best position to ride.

The “Standard” or “upright” riding position is generally accepted as being the most comfortable for all shapes and sizes of riders because it’s a neutral one.

And more importantly it places the least strain on joints and spine and actually positions your body in a natural position of rest.

You need to sit with your back up-right, your shoulders stacked above your hips and slightly pushed back.

An important thing to notice is that the shoulders and your back should not be in a hunched position, i.e. you should not be leaning forward with your shoulders raised, or to bend your shoulders and back into a rounded shape.

If your back is straight, mostly your shoulders will follow the pattern, so you need to be cautious about your back’s position. But do not ignore the shoulders as hunched shoulders will cause discomfort and pain in the neck and upper back area.

With this position you can ride a touring bike too and for long distances, but do not use the same for sports bike, because you will not be able to go long on it (a sports bike) with your back straight!

Note – If you are an amateur to bike reading then please select this one, and no other position. First clear this position level after a little bit of practice, then move to the next positions.

The Cruiser Position

Another position that you can use on standard bikes and likewise bikes is the cruiser position. There is not much difference between this and the earlier position. The only exception is your lower legs alignment.

Mark that your bike has special footrests in the front body of your bike in addition to the ones which are diagonal to your seat. Your bike must also have higher handlebars in general. These footrests facilitate the cruising position. Your legs are extended forward on these footrests ahead of your body. The basic shoulder and back position remains the same – i.e. a straight back with shoulders in line with hips.

When riding in standard position, the ankles are in line with the hips. This means your legs are bent a little back to your body, and your upper body supports you and the bike.

Cruising position allows your feet to support the rest of the body, which means that your upper body is a bit more relaxed because of the support of the lower body.

Personally speaking, the Cruiser position is more appealing for your body. Stretched legs and straight back gives an overall stability to your riding position and helps you to remain on wheels for a longer period.

The Sports Position

This is the most famous riding position and one of the most stylish ones. Bikers who are very obsessive about speed try to imitate this lot.

You must have come across this position in several formula race posters. And if you want a better imagination to this position then just visualize a jockey on a racehorse. Sports position is almost its look alike.

Before we discuss the anatomy needed for this position, it is important to note that this position is best when you are riding a sports bike, because they are designed that way, and secondly this position is formulated for high speeds.

So if you are not riding a sports bike, or even if you are riding one but not at high speed, then don’t go for this one – because it will discomfort your ride more than comfort. So, choose from the two discussed above.

In sports position there are two areas where you need to work.

The upper body and the lower body –

The upper body in this position is leaned forward. This does not mean that the back should be bent! The back should also be leaning but straight. This is very important, or else it will lead to severe back pains. The best way to do this (upper body forward and back straight) is to focus on the chest.

Lean from the chest instead of with the back. Keep the shoulders back rather than letting them hunch over. A straight back and firm shoulders (with a leaning forward body) will eliminate all the chances of hurting yourself!

Now let us analyze the position of the lower body. Your feet are bent back behind you in the sports position, but because you’re leaning forward, you can rest on your heels a bit. So put some weight on your feet. This will offset the strain on your back while you ride.

Common Body Positions

 

Some common body parts position which you need to look for – whichever bike or style you are riding.

• Use your ‘core arm muscles’ to hold yourself and the bike – and not your hands. This will relax your shoulders and your hands and you can then counter steer with light pushes rather than a death-grip.
• Put your feet firmly on the pegs, and not half in air half on pegs. Firmness of your legs will enhance upright position for you back.
• Your head should always be facing forward and straight, never sideways or down. Don’t look at your pathways just will your eye, but instead look at your road ahead with your head. This is always helpful for your neck, or else you will end up hurting your neck and strain your shoulders. Secondly your head position is also important when you steer through turns. If your head is not positioned straight and you take a sharp turn, you have a very likely chance to injure your neck and feel a blow on your head as well, because of wind pressure.
• The final bike-riding tip is to relax. Keep your mind less tense and less anxious. Take a deep breath when you get on your bike and keep breathing deeply throughout your ride. The supply of oxygen and its quality will never be less once you are in the open! Try not to be rigid to yourself when you are on the streets. When you come to a stop sign or stoplight, stretch your legs and arms a bit. Place your feet on the ground and loosen your arms. You can stretch your ankles, wrists and move your neck up and down and sideways. These small exercises will lead to longer and safer journeys lifelong. After all, riding is not an academic test that you have to pass! It is meant as a recreational activity!

These are the commoners, but remember every bike and every human anatomy is different from other. Every driver has a different height and upper/lower body proportions. A bike can’t be made to fit every single person. So you need a proper fit for your own body.

Today modern bikes allow a lot of adjustment facilities. So before you buy one, hop on your selection and adjust it to your best posture and stance.

Make sure you have everything in the right position. Adjust the seat, the handlebars, and the footrests to fit your body.

Remember:

Here are some of the things you need to look while measuring yourself on the bike.

• Rider Dimensions: Stature (height) and Inseam
• Vehicle Customization: Handlebar rise, Handlebar pull-back, Seat rise
• Additional Options: Metric values, Feet on/off ground, Center image on seat, Arm Straightness, Placement on seat (center/front/back)

Note – Remember that most often it will not be the riding style or position for your discomfort; in fact it will have more to do with the bike’s settings. Best settings ensure most comfort, but most people take this for granted. They will adjust their bodies according to their purchase and not the other way – which leads to several pains and aches in the long run.

Is riding a motorcycle good for your back?

The best of you (body position and posture) will come out on the bike, if you are always maintaining your body in a very good shape. Don’t accept your body to be firm and sturdy on the bike, if you are almost sitting or walking around slouching – with shoulders bowed down and a hunched back.

These ill – habits or biological behaviors have serious consequences. They tighten and strain the muscles in your back and your shoulder muscles – making them harder to perform when you really need them to.

So the only best way to have good posture on your bike is to practice good posture in your everyday life, – while you are walking around, sitting somewhere or when you are really relaxed, because even relaxation exercises are not aimed at hurting your body. Take care of them throughout your life if you want these muscles to take care of you as you ride your bike!

There are certain things you should notice which will help you maintain a good body posture – which will be great for you not just while riding, but will improve your overall biological and social status.

• Do a mental scan of your body of how you sit.
• Notice if you’re putting more pressure on the lower back than necessary.
• Notice how often you slouch when you’re at work.
• While walking your shoulders should always be straight and spine should never be bent.
• Your legs should be in maximum contact with the ground while you are walking. Don’t walk with your legs or toes in air. Walking likewise puts a lot of tension on your upper body.
• Especially when you are in a very relaxed mood, for example watching television, or playing on your mobile, you should be very well aware of your sitting position. Even while on recliners, try to straighten your back as much as you can.
• If possible take out a little time for outdoor sports, as it will tend an overall stability to your body muscles and help you maintain a good posture.
• A massage once a month, or in two months, is also a very good activity to relieve your muscles and tendons from the overall physical strenuous exertion that you face.
• If you are still unable to solve your issue, use a back brace. This is any easy way to ensure you’re practicing good posture on and off the streets.  

Time to visit a doctor

Along with all the fun riding your motorcycle offers you, there is indeed a lot to be cautious about. Severe back pains, shoulder injuries, neck strains, or pains in joints and ligament stretch are some of the very common injuries that motorcyclists face all over the world.

These injuries have nothing to do with your experience. However a better rider you may be, but a single bad ride can lead to life-long damages to your body parts. Sometimes all it takes is one ride with your body in a bad position to seriously hurt yourself.

But before hurting yourself seriously and permanently damaging your body, you need to take care of even the slightest discomfort your body experiences.

If you feel tightness or a pulling in your back muscles, it’s time to get back to basics. Apply oil and balms and avoid riding for a few days. If the pain persists go for the exercises, and if it is really not getting better, visit a doctor at the earliest. And only after you are back into the best of your shape re-train yourself to drive with the correct motorcycle riding position.

If you really take care about these few simple steps and practice riding your bike with posture in mind, you will be well on your way to a safe and enjoyable ride always.

And remember – imagine yourself like a lion when riding your bike and you will always be able to maintain your position and authority! And don’t try the position in the photo displayed below – these types of stunts are not to be tried on roads!

There is something uniquely thrilling and satisfying about touring by motorcycle.

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, then the tremendous sense of freedom when hitting the road with your ‘baby’ is not foreign to you.

You know the electrifying sensation you feel as your motorcycle roars and vibration cruises all over your veins. There no words that can capture the heightened adventure and awareness as you sweep through twisties and curves.

Riding a motorcycle gives you the best way to get close to nature’s beauty. To feel the wind on your face; feel it as it plays with your hair. This thrill is second to none.

However, to fully enjoy the thrill of touring by motorcycle, you need to know which routes are the best. You need to know which roads will intensify your adventure by sheer beauty or fascinating landscapes.

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Other motorcycle routes you need to try

Routes in the United States

There are millions of miles of roads in America. However, not all roads are the same. As a motorcycle enthusiast, it is important to note that there are roads, and there are motorcycle roads.

If you have a spectacular motorcycle road trip, then you should begin by finding out the best motorcycle roads and routes. This is because a great road will always lead to a great and fulfilling motorcycle ride.

With the numerous splendid motorcycle roads in the United States, choosing the top routes is always a hot button topic. It often provokes discussion with controversies and disagreement to present a top 5 or top ten roads in the United States.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific coast highway, also known as California State Route 1, stacks favorably as one of the best motorcycle routes in the US. In fact, some motorcycle enthusiasts have labeled it the undisputed motorcycle route due to the smorgasbord of treats it offers.

The Pacific coast highway offers a scenic roadway like no other. If you decide to ride on this laudable motorcycle route, be ready to be mesmerized by the towering redwood forest, crashing surf, and seal-punctuated beaches.

You will also be glad to know that the Pacific coast highway offers you enough curves to spice up your trip and keep you contented end to end. The highway can be said to be a cliff-hugging ribbon that stretches 120 miles. On it, you will find frequent turnouts that will provide you with a golden opportunity to enjoy panoramic and stellar views.

The kind of stellar views you will feast your eyes on when you are riding on the Pacific coast highway will certainly whet your appetite for more. And this should not be a problem because the pacific coast highway is pretty extensive. It stretches pretty much the entire California coast; from Malibu to the Oregon border and beyond.

If you are planning on enjoying a motorcycle ride on the Pacific coast highway, it is advisable that you avoid it during summer weekends because Big Sur is famously fogbound. Additionally, make sure that you visit the Hearst Castle.

Tail of the Dragon, Tennessee

The tail of the dragon, also known as the Deal’s Gap, is another motorcycle route widely considered as one of the best motorcycle roads in America. The route is a Hollywood favorite and has been featured in several movies and TV shows including The Fugitive and Top Gear. The road got its notable name due to its striking simulacrum of a dragon tails.

The route boasts over 300 curves, and the sharpest curve has been given several nicknames including Gravity Cavity and Copperhead Corner. The rail of the dragon

Due to its exhilarating curves, you are sure to find motorcycle enthusiasts and die-hard sport-bike riders making a beeline on this road in a bid to test their cornering skills. And you don’t have to worry about an oncoming truck because no trucks are allowed.

There is a shrine, known as the Tree of Shame, which has motorcycle parts attached to it y those who were unable to tame the dragon. It is hence important that you just enjoy the curves without proving your bravado.

Related:

• Use a cooler for long road trips

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

If you enjoy mountain route, then the Blue Ridge Parkway will definitely whet your interest. In fact, this iconic mountain route features almost on every serious motorcyclist must-do list.

The road snakes through the Virginia countryside featuring a fair share of local charms including the enthralling Civil War Battle sites. As you follow the route to the south, you will be ushered into the Great Smoky Mountains. Here, you will get to enjoy sweeping curves and eye-catching scenery.

The Blue Ridge Parkway has a compulsory 45-mile-per-hour speed limit, which is a good thing because it allows you to feast your eyes on all the view that reach a crescendo south of Ashville, North Carolina.

Although the parkway can be ridden in one day, it is recommended that you take two days. It is worth mentioning that there are no gas stations on the Blue Ridge parkway itself; you have to exist to fill up.

Bike Routes in South America

South America is a continent surrounded by Atlantic Ocean on the Eastern side and Pacific Ocean on the western side. It is possible to cycle across the continent, though they are not designated bike routes. You use the normal roads together with other road users. Cycling is in South America can be adventurous and fun, depending on the time of the year which determines the prevailing weather conditions. The South America circuit gives a visual outlook and appreciates the environment and all its surroundings. It takes less than 10 months to complete the cycling circuit from the South to the North.

Southern route

You can begin your route from the South at Marica Riohancha, Santa Marte; the coastal city in the Pacific Ocean. You then move to Peninsular, Venezuela to experience the sand beaches and great weather.  The road takes you to Tierra-del Fuegro in the Caribbean Sea. It is 1,200 km stretch from the Southern City of Ushuaia. In Argentina, you will enjoy the wild animals from the parks and glaciers mountain of Perito Moreno and Mount Fitz Roy. From Tierra-del Fuego you move North road to Ruta 40 as you pass through Paratoginia; at this point you enjoy the woodlands of Chile and a green landscape of the grasslands.

Argentina route

Take Carrelera- Austria Road that has a gravel surface. Along the route you will encounter snow-capped mountains, rivers and their resultant features for an awesome visual look. This area lacks any facilities, when leaving the coastal city carry enough food and drinks. It is sparsely populated with lots of fishing activities and sight of Salmon and Trout fish species.

The road ends at the city of Puerto Mont, then go through Argentina to the sandy beaches of Andes. Rota 40 road still meets Mendoza to enjoy sea food and recreational facilities. You can ride north to Argentina to Salta town which is 400 km from Bolivia- a border town.  The area is characterized by mountains and has a rough terrain making riding a difficult challenge. It has low temperatures of below -25⁰C and high altitudes. The area is remote with no recreational facilities though the people are friendly. At this point there are two routes:

Chile Route

It heads towards Chile in the Pacific coastline along Andes to Peru, Ecuador and Columbia.

Bolivia route

You can cross Bolivia towards the North then to Amazon- Brazil through the adventurous mountains. The area has friendly people with rich diversified culture and social welfare.

Southern Chile

All these routes lead you to Southern Chile and Peru in the North. In Andes the temperatures are average, it allows you to enjoy riding while site seeing the spectacular landscapes and geographical features. Finally, you cycle on Road BR319 with Jaguars and gorillas. They pose a threat but no need to raise alarm.

Cross Country Motorcycle Trip Packing List

Heading for a cross country trip, but want to make sure you are fully prepared? Preparation is key, as forgetting some important supplies could put a serious damper on your otherwise great trip.

To help you prepare for your journey, we have provided a packing list for you, listing all the things you simply must take during your trip. So, be sure to use our list before you head off!

Category 1: Your Toolkit

To ensure you do not get stranded in the middle of nowhere, you will need a toolkit containing tools for possible bike repairs or maintenance. Contrary to popular belief, these tools do not have to be heavy or cumbersome, since tools such as wrenches and grips are usually the ones necessary to execute emergency repairs.

When creating your toolkit be sure to include the following: wrenches (size 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, and 174 mm), vise grips, screwdrivers (flathead and Philips head), pliers, zip ties, battery O-rings, GPS fuses, and Allen keys.

Before you head off on your trip, always make sure you know how to use your tools. If you are not familiar with the tools or the emergency repairs you could be executing on the road, there is little point in taking a toolkit with you. So, do not only be prepared with tools, make sure you are prepared with knowledge too.

Category 2: Your Riding Gear

Riding gear is also an important part of your packing list. You want to make sure you are protected on the road, because no matter how good of a rider you are, you cannot account for everyone’s safety on the road.

When packing your riding gear, you must make sure the following is included in your kit: Roadcrafter (one-piece suit), a helmet, boots, boot laces, gloves (preferable two pairs, one for colder and one for warmer weather conditions), earplugs, and sunglasses.

Anyone who goes on a cross country motorcycle trip for the first time should pay extra attention to their riding gear. It is vital that your gear fits you perfectly, since an ill-fitting helmet or suit could do you more damage than good. If you are unsure about your riding gear, head to the nearest specialist store and ask for some assistance.

Category 3: Chain Maintenance Kit

When you go on a cross country trip, it is important to keep the motorcycle chain in excellent condition. While the supplies to maintain your chain could be considered as a part of your basic toolkit, we found it important to mention this as a separate category.

To be fully prepared on the road, you will need the following supplies to keep your chain in mint condition: several rags, a Teflon tube, WD40, specialist torque wrench and a 24 mm socket.

Please note that it is often recommended to keep your chain maintenance supplies separately from your toolkit. A lot of riders need these tools more often than the actual toolkit, so it may be a good idea to reserve a special place for these tools during your trip.

Category 4: Heated Riding Gear

Depending on where you are going on your cross-country trip, you may need some heated gear. With heated gear, you are more prepared for cold weather conditions, so ensure you include them. It is also advised to keep heated gear separately from your regular riding gear; this makes it easier to find while on the road.

As a part of your heated gear kit, make sure you include a warm jacket that will also provide you with ample protection in case of a crash, socks, wire for heated socks, warm gloves, and a HeatTroller.

Please note that not all riders will require heated gear during their trip, but it is recommended, nonetheless. The weather can be very fickle, so even when there is little doubt you will encounter severe weather conditions, it is always better to be prepared.

Category 5: Tire Maintenance

Much like the chain of your motorcycle, your tires will require maintenance somewhere along the way. Fortunately, there are some basic supplies you can keep on you to ensure you can keep going. Essential tire maintenance supply for your packing list include a tire gauge, cycle pump, gator clips for the pump, and a tire plug kit.

Category 5: Electrical Supplies

In this day and age of technology, most riders will have some gadgets with them. While there are some riders who do not take any, most riders enjoy having some technological conveniences along the way.

Most riders will add the following electricals to their supply kit: GPS, USB cable, cell phone and accompanying charger, digital camera and charging cable, laptop and adapter. Please note that you are not required to take all these supplies. Some take photographs with their smartphone, and other like to leave bulky items such as a laptop at home. Electricals are a more personal choice, although we do recommend taking a good GPS just in case.

Category 6: Legal Documents

When you are on the road, there is a chance you will be asked to display insurance or your driving license. Therefore, these documents must be easily accessible during your cross-country trip and must be included on this list.

Essential documents you will require on your trip include: your driver’s license, registration, insurance documents, passport or identification cards, paper, and a pen.

Category 7: Miscellaneous

There are other essential supplies to be taken on your trip, but they often do not have their own category. That being said, you cannot forget to bring these items, as they are bound to prove essential during your trip.

One of the essentials you cannot forget on your trip is a first aid kit. While you may not be in an accident, it is not uncommon to get a cut or a graze. To ensure you can remain comfortable, ensure you have essentials such as plasters, bandages, and antiseptic in case of a medical emergency.

In addition to your first aid kit, you must also consider any medications you should be taking with you. For example, if you are an asthmatic, you should be keeping your inhalers in an easy to reach place. It is also advised to take supplies such as painkillers, which could prove rather useful if you get a rather annoying headache somewhere on the road.

Toiletries is another thing to consider for your trip, in addition to your regular clothing of course. Essentials to include are a towel, brush, toothbrush, toothpaste, sun lotion, bug repellant, a razor (if you need one), soap, lenses and glasses if you wear them (it can also be useful to bring a spare pair).

When packing your miscellaneous bag, make sure you consider the clothing you are going to take. You will need several pairs of pants, socks, shirts, underwear, and other essential clothing you will need on the road. Also make sure you are prepared for all weather conditions.

Finally, always take a spare bike key with you. When on the road, it is certainly not uncommon for things to get lost or stolen. The last thing you need is getting stranded with no way to start your bike, so make sure you have a second set of keys in your miscellaneous bag.

Category 8 (Optional): Camping Supplies

Please note that this category is optional, since not all riders decide to camp during their cross-country ride. Some prefer to stay in hotels or motels along the way, so this category is only useful f or those who want to experience the beauty of outdoor camping along the way.

Camping materials can be cumbersome and heavy. Since you are already taking a bunch of supplies with you on your trip, it is essential to pack smart, but not leave behind any essentials to remain comfortable.

When you decide on camping along the way, please ensure to include the following supplies in your camping bag: a tent, durable sleeping bag, tarp (which can shield you or your bike from the weather elements if required), headlamp, and a pillow.