As adventurous as it might seem to just hop on your bike and ride away into the sunset, this idea is a bit romanticized, and there is a lot of preparation you need to do in order to make your long-distance journey safe, smooth, and comfortable. If you think you are up for the challenge or are planning that big celebratory trip after the pandemic, read on to learn what you can do to have the best long ride possible. 

Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Distance Rides 

If you know you are going to do a long trip soon or are planning to do a lot of long-distance riding in general, you may want to look into a bike that is suitable for covering the kind of miles you wish to ride. Not every bike is a reasonable option for this type of riding, and you may not want to use your daily commuter for a cross-country road trip. Luckily, there are many options available out there for every type of rider. 

• Touring Motorcycles: As the name suggests, these bikes are designed with long, multi-day rides in mind. They typically have a more upright position, so you won’t put as much strain on your back after hours of holding yourself up sitting. There is also usually more built-in cargo space, such as saddlebags, a roomier trunk area, and extra pockets for stashing smaller items that need to be more readily accessible. They will often come with a larger windscreen and front fairing to help with aerodynamics, so you aren’t struggling against the wind for your entire ride. 
• Cruiser and Standard Motorcycles: This is another comfortable option for long rides. Cruisers are built with a lower, relaxed seating position that allows you ride in a more restful position. However, these bikes usually lack the large front fairing of a touring bike, so they do not deflect the wind around you as well. There will also still be storage options, including saddlebags, a tank bag, or a front pouch, but they do not usually offer trunk storage, so keep that in mind when considering gear and packing needs. 
• Dual-Sport and Adventure Motorcycles: This type of bike is great for people who are planning rides on mixed terrain, like dirt and asphalt. They are constructed with ergonomics in mind and will not put too much strain on your back and wrists during bumpy sections. They also offer decent wind protection. Storage is not usually an included feature, but you can always upgrade with some add-ons. 
• Sport Motorcycles: Sport bikes are not usually the most desirable option for a long journey. Since you ride this type of bike with a crouched, forward posture, it can be hard on the body for longer distances. That being said, the sleek design and riding position makes these bikes very aerodynamic and good at taking high-speed turns, and many people have made long trips with sport motorcycles. If you are considering this option, it is recommended to test it out with a shorter ride and see what your tolerance level is for riding or if you are willing to take more frequent breaks. 

Choosing the Proper Engine 

There are benefits and disadvantages to different types of engines. While it is not essential to have the highest-powered engine for a long ride, there will be some differences between options that will depend on the type of bike you choose. 

• 750cc and Under: While it is not impossible to ride longer distances on a smaller engine, like a 250cc, these can struggle at highway speeds. Even though they are very fuel efficient, they are best for a daily commuter. However, depending on the type of bike you choose, a 750cc engine could be a great option. In a standard or cruiser bike, a 750cc engine will work well for your daily commute, while still allowing you to take the occasional long ride. For a truly versatile option, a 750cc sports bike will be your bet. Its aerodynamic structure is great for daily riding with efficient mileage and smooth maneuvering, but it can also cruise comfortably at highway speed for extended periods of time without running into trouble. 
• Over 750cc: Of course, anything over 750cc will be more than enough to get you through your daily commute, but this level of engine is really built for long rides at highway speeds. More power means a bigger engine, so that is why you typically see engines above 750cc in more hefty categories of motorcycles, like touring bikes. While they may not be the most efficient and reactive in urban traffic or driving environments that are constantly changing, this size of engine is just what you need to ride at cruising speeds in comfort. 

Special Gear for Long-Distance Rides 

If you plan to use your bike for long road trips, there are a number of things you can add to your bike aftermarket to make your ride more comfortable. All of this is in addition to the proper safety gear you should already be using, as well as protective clothing designed for all weather and temperatures if you plan to drive across different terrains and climates. 

• Heated Grips: Cold hands can quickly become dangerous if they become stiff and you start to fumble with your controls, not to mention it is just painful. If you plan to ride early or in the evening, heated handles will help keep your hands toasty when temperatures drop. 
• Padded Grips: Similarly, while you may not notice your hands in your day-to-day riding, extra padding can help prevent wrist pain and tightness that can occur during extended periods with your hands resting on the grips. 
• Backrest: A little support can go a long way when you are riding for a distance. You can get one for a passenger too, and you can both lean back a little while you cruise at speed. 
• Gel Seat: A gel seat insert can really make a difference in comfort for long rides and will help prevent your lower body from falling asleep or getting sore. You can even get a gel pad for your backrest too. If your seat doesn’t offer a compatible gel cover, it is easy to have one made by a custom shop. 
• Cruise Control: Just like in a car, you can buy grips with a throttle lock that will help control your speed on the highway. This can save you a lot of energy and hand cramps from squeezing the throttle for hours on end. 

Look for more tips in Long-Distance Riding 102!

Long rides are one of the great joys of riding a motorcycle. It is easy to get caught up in the moment and lose awareness of your surroundings. If you were the victim of a motorcycle accident and believe you could be entitled to compensation, contact the Law Offices of Kirshner, Groff, and Diaz for a no-obligation initial consultation. We will arrange a time for you to speak directly to a real lawyer. 

The post Long-Distance Riding 101 appeared first on Miami Injury Lawyer | Personal Injury Is All We Do.

But with so many different options on the market, how do you know where to start? Is a pair of hardy jeans and sturdy boots just as good as custom-made leather products specifically for motorcycle riding? Read on for a basic primer on what kind of gear options you have for riding – part 1 will discuss the fundamentals of motorcycle outerwear. 

Helmet 

If you choose to wear nothing else for gear, a helmet would still be a wise choice to help keep you safe in the event of a crash. If you do choose to wear a helmet, there are a few different options you have to consider. Each offers different levels of coverage and protection. 

• Full Helmet: As the name implies, a full helmet will offer you the most coverage and protection around your head and face. This type of helmet will also provide additional protection at the base of your skull, which can be a vulnerable area. It will also come with some form of eye protection. Typically, it will be a visor that you can rotate out of the way when needed. Different models will come with different finishes on the visor, such as light or dark tint, color variations, or clear. Riders who are worried about discomfort or impairment while wearing a full helmet can rest assured that these helmets provide good ventilation, while also allowing you to adequately hear the sounds of traffic around you. 
• ¾ Helmet: Similar to the full helmet, this type fully covers the top, sides, and back of your head. However, there will typically be less facial coverage with the omission of the chin protector. Visors can also be shaded or tinted and are usually able to be flipped up or down as needed. These helmets should also breathe well and allow traffic sounds to pass through to you. 
• Half Helmet: This style offers the least protection of the three types. The half helmet covers the top of your head and provides partial coverage to the sides and back. This helmet also does not cover your face. Some models will come with some form of a visor, but many riders will choose to wear googles or glasses with this type of helmet to afford them more eye protection and improve vision quality. 

Jacket 

Even here in sunny Florida, a good jacket is an essential piece of your motorcycle wardrobe. There are numerous different materials to choose from, with a wide range and mix of protection, function, and style. For example, the classic leather jacket is a great option for protection from the elements and road rash (and gives you that classic cool look too), but for a long-haul ride where you log many hours on your bike, a more breathable synthetic jacket may be a more comfortable option. 

Like anything you wear while riding, your jacket should fit comfortably. While you will want to size it a bit on the roomy side to make room for layers, you do not want to buy one in a size that is too bulky and unwieldy that it interferes with your movement. For similar reasons, it should not be too tight. You want freedom of movement so that you can react quickly to your environment. Fit should always come first, but you may choose a jacket with added functional features, such as internal and external pockets, reflective inserts, or mesh ventilation. 

Pants 

Many riders neglect to even think about what pants they should wear while riding, but for superior protection and comfort, a regular pair of jeans just won’t cut it. Pants that are specifically designed with motorcycle riders in mind will offer added protection against abrasions if you do wipe out, and they may also provide ventilation for hot and sunny days and reinforcements around areas that have a lot of contact with the bike. Pants made for motorcycles may also incorporate visibility features, such as bright colors or reflective coverings. 

Like motorcycle jackets, there are a range of materials and styles for motorcycle pants. Leather and denim are probably the two materials that quickly come to mind for most people, but textile and Kevlar are also great options. Depending on a rider’s needs, some pants can be used alone or in combination with another type of pants to improve effectiveness. Leather is often the material of choice for high speeds and racing, with a few exceptions for some cruisers, but textiles are available in many different types for the average rider. 

• Riding Jeans: For riders who want to blend in a little more with their look or want something they can easily wear both on and off the bike without having to change or walk around in something too bulky, there are now jeans that are specially-made for riding a motorcycle. These are designed to look just like normal jeans, but you would certainly be able to tell the difference if you come off your bike and hit the pavement. Since riding jeans are more optimized for comfort and style than function, they are best for low-speed or shorter rides, as they can get hot and don’t always have many features. However, some pairs will include knee or hip armor or will be reinforced with Kevlar or another abrasion-resistant material. 
• Mesh: This is an especially great option for hot Florida weather. Mesh pants include large mesh panels that improve airflow and breathability, but they are built with stronger materials in the critical zones that are most likely to take impact. Although mesh pants are less incognito, they can be more comfortable for long, sweaty rides and have more options for weatherproofing. Of course, the ventilation makes these a poor choice for cold weather. The mesh areas are also less durable than other materials. 
• Full Textile: These are typically the most versatile option in terms of features. Full textile pants can offer you full protection in any weather or season and can come with things like thermal liners or wicking materials to keep you dry. These types of pants are usually better equipped to handle higher-speed crashes. Wearing these, it will be obvious that you just got off your bike, but you get the advantage of extra comfort and handy features, like storage, reflectors, adjustability, and padding. 

This covers the basics of clothing and outerwear for riders. Part 2 of this series will cover some of the more specialized gear and accessories riders may want to incorporate into their routine. 

Motorcycle gear may seem like an expensive investment after you’ve already shelled out for your bike and insurance, but this is an essential part of your riding that will pay for itself in the long run, especially if you are unlucky enough to get into an accident. If you have been the victim of a motorcycle accident, an experienced attorney can help you get the compensation you are entitled to. Contact the Law Offices of Kirshner, Groff, and Diaz for a no-obligation consultation. You will be put in touch directly with an actual lawyer.

The post A Starter Guide to Motorcycle Gear: Part 1 appeared first on Miami Injury Lawyer | Personal Injury Is All We Do.

As drivers on the roadway we should always take precautions to look twice ensuring no motorcycles are coming before making left-hand turns or changing lanes, as a motorcyclist can be riding in your blind spot.

Yesterday, a  52-year-old man was killed  after Florida Highway Patrol troopers say an SUV crashed into his motorcycle in Osceola County.

The crash was reported at 3:20 p.m. near Laguna Bay Circle, according to troopers.

According to the FHP crash report, the motorcyclist was traveling south on Poinciana Boulevard when the driver of an SUV attempted to change lanes and struck the left side of the motorcycle.

The post Motorcyclist killed in crash on Poinciana Boulevard appeared first on Miami Injury Lawyer | Personal Injury Is All We Do.