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New motorcyclist's diary: my motorcycle trip has made me a more prepared person
New motorcyclist's diary: my motorcycle trip has made me a more prepared person
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New motorcyclist's diary: my motorcycle trip has made me a more prepared person
Last year I got my first taste of what it was like to ride a motorcycle.
A friend and I spent a weekend taking an MSF course. Even just hanging out in a parking lot, I knew I liked it.
What I didn't expect was how motorcycling would change me and make me an overall more prepared person in life.
After attending the course, I purchased a used Kawasaki Versys as my first motorcycle. Unfortunately, I live in the Midwest US where winter is limiting my outings, but I take the Versys out every chance I get. Often, those possibilities are just short business trips.
My commute to my restaurant job is about 10-15 minutes on a mix of country roads and city streets. So it may seem crazy that for this short commute I usually start getting ready to leave at least an hour before my shift. At first it surprised me too. I was almost late for work a couple of times. I quickly learned how much preparation I needed to do and I'm better for it.
I learned to prepare so early because there are simply so many factors I need to take into account, which I divide into three categories: before the run, during the run and after the run.
Before the race
The first pre-ride factor I look at is whether I should take my bike in the first place. If I feel a little sick or tired, I take this into consideration before every ride.
Then, I check the temperature, wind speed and weather. Even on my short commute to work, if the temperature is below 40 degrees F, my hands can go numb before I finish my commute. Also, if there is a high chance of rain, even if my gear is waterproof, I usually don't ride due to my inexperience. These factors determine what I will need on the trip or whether I should drive at all.
around
The first and most important part of preparing for the trip itself was taught to me by the weekend I spent on an MSF course. ATGATT: All the material all the time. I wear helmet, jacket, gloves and boots.
After these basics, I prepare for the weather, both for the journey there and for the return from work. It could be comfortably in the 70s on my trip, but dip into the low 50s on my trip home. I'll pack another pair of socks and a hoodie in my backpack to wear on the way back. I also have a nice pair of neon blue gloves to layer under my warm weather motorcycle gloves for a little extra warmth.
I make sure anything in my pockets or backpack is safely stowed away and off I go.
After the tour
First, it's important for me to be ready for my shift when I arrive. Luckily I can wear my boots and jeans, but I also need a black t-shirt, my nametag and my hat. After the pandemic, I always keep a mask in my jacket.
There isn't much space to store my equipment in the restaurant where I work. Unfortunately, the spot I found is behind some shelves, so I make sure to bring my helmet bag to prevent my helmet from getting scratched or dirty. Wherever I go, I try to think ahead about what I'll do with my gear at my destination, since I don't want it to get dirty, damaged, or stolen.
Finally, if I plan to bring food home, I take into account whether it can fit in my backpack and be securely secured.
All this preparation may seem excessive, but it makes my commute smooth and enjoyable despite the conditions. I made the trip in sub-zero wind chills comfortably staying prepared. All this preparation also keeps me safer on the roads and always ready for work when I arrive.
Even though I'm new to riding, I'm excited to gain more experience. What I didn't expect was that what I learned about simply getting ready for work has already influenced the rest of my life. I find that every time I leave the house for whatever reason, I go through the same process to figure out what I need, even when I don't take my motorcycle.
I quickly became the person who never forgets my keys, phone, or wallet and is always dressed for the weather.
⚠️ Legal Notice – Important Product Declaration
This product is not certified, approved, or homologated for use on public roads or highways in any country. It is intended for off-road use only, including closed-course racing, sports competition, or private testing . Installation and use of this product on vehicles operating on public roads is strictly prohibited and may violate traffic laws, emissions regulations, or roadworthiness inspection requirements.
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