Motorcycle Trip Checklist

Inspect your motorcycle.

Make sure both tires are properly inflated.

If suspect a tire will not last long enough for a ride, have it replaced.

Check if your cables (clutch and brakes) and controls intact and working.

Make sure your headlights (high & low beam), turn signals, and brake lights work.

Check everything from engine oil and coolant to brake fluid.

Ensure that the frame, suspension, chain, and fasteners are all secure and intact.

Make sure the center stand and/or side stand isn't cracked or bent, and that springs properly hold the assembly away from the pavement when stowed.

Check if shocks and fork springs and fork seals are in good condition.

Motorcycle Equipment to Take

BMW Tool kit and BMW or VDO tire gauge: use it every day.

Extra wrenches and pliers (optional).

Duct tape & electric tape (partial rolls take less space).

Wire, hose clamps, fuses, silicone seal, misc

Bulb kit (BMW) or spare front, taillight & turn signal bulb.

Spare spark plugs (also points and condenser for pre-'81 twins).

Spare fuel filter (for K models only).

Spare float bowl gaskets or carb rebuild kit (for twins only).

Spare clutch cable (optional-inspect or change before leaving).

Shop rag and handiwipes.

Cargo straps & bungee cables.

BMW tire repair kit.

Clothes and Soft Goods to Take

Cash and credit card, auto club card if you have one.

Current dealer list, insurance and registration cards, driver's license.

First Aid kit.

Several sets of earplugs for less fatigue.

Sunglasses, extra visor, visor cleaner and rag.

Sunscreen (For nose and arms, especially), aspirin, vitamins, bug repellent antihistamines it you suffer from allergies.

Swimsuit.

Towel (the"packable" travel towels take a lot less space), washcloth.

Toothbrush, toothpaste, toiletries, toilet paper, soap & shampoo.

Shoes & extra socks.

Underwear, T-shirts (not too many--you can wash them).

Sweatshirt, heavy wool shirt or sweater for warmth (or electric vest).

Polartec or similar fabric vest, jacket, pants (excellent under a riding suit).

Silk or polyester balaclava.

Rain suit (not necessary if you have Gore?Tex suit).

Rain mitts and rain boots/boot covers.

Various gloves appropriate for the ranges of weather expected.

Extra stuff sacks for organizing your gear.

Light reading book, guidebooks.

Maps and information about points of interest along your route.

Camping Gear

Tent - as small and light as possible.

Tarp or ground cloth option.

Sleeping pad.

Inflatable pillow (optional but nice).

Sleeping bag.

Water bottle.

Small flashlight and extra batteries.

Extra candles and matches or lighter.