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Blatherings From The Editor How to Go Touring
I guess the first question is, “What is touring?” To me, just about any ride can be called touring. There are long tours and short tours. To Wanda and I the biggest difference is the amount of pre-planning and preparation that goes into getting ready for a long tour. On the other hand, there are touring riders that just go that-a-way, with little or no planning. So, if you were to go out and buy a book on touring, what would you want in it? I would think there would be chapters on the merits of camping or moteling and why one over the other; chapters on servicing your bike and what and how to pack; route planning tips and how to read maps; a chapter on where and what to eat when on the road; and there has to be a chapter or two on what to do when there are problems such as a flat tire or a machine failure of some kind. Lots of basic stuff that needs to be addressed. Another area that deserves a chapter is riding gear. Your jacket, gloves, pants, boots, and helmet will have a real impact on your trip. How do you dress for all occasions and all kinds of weather? What works and what doesn’t? Ever hear of layering? How about electrics? Then there needs to be chapters on what I call “inside information.” These are the tips, tricks and traps that the experienced tourer has developed and learned through the school of long miles. Little things that make the trip easier and more enjoyable. Tidbits of wisdom that will help keep you out of trouble and solve those small but annoying problems. Did you know that bread bags will keep your hands warm in a pinch, and newspapers stuffed between you and your jacket will help keep your torso warm? I’m sure there are millions more. Each chapter of this imaginary touring book could be a book unto itself. For example, what and where to eat on the road. Proper nutrition is essential to remaining alert and safe. What foods will give you energy but not make you feel bloated or tired? When are the best times to stop to eat? Bring it or buy it? Here’s a tip: On the road, drink bottled water; less likely the local flora and fauna will give you a bad case of Montezuma’s revenge. Personally, I would like to have a book that lists all the inexpensive Mom & Pop hotels/motels around the country. There are thousands of books on roadside attractions that I love to peruse, each and every one a great excuse for a ride. Can’t say I have seen a book on how to pack a motorcycle, and I don’t believe I have ever seen a book on how to pack and travel two up. How about you? Any ideas on what you would like to see an experienced touring rider write about? How about any special tips, tricks or traps that you know and use? Help us out and share the knowledge. Deryle and Wanda, send us your ideas, editor@seatrider.com.
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