Choosing a Motorcycle for your Motorcycle Holiday

Just because you love your motorcycle (motorbike) does not mean you can not enjoy the magnificent places we have in Australia (or the world for that matter).

A motorcycle holiday can be a very low cost method of touring. By carefully choosing the right motorcycle, equipment and clothing, it is possible for one or two people to enjoy a camping holiday by motorbike. Many bikes' fuel consumption is in the range of 16-20 km/L and can hold sufficient spare parts, equipment and personal gear for quite long trips.

It is best to avoid extremes of temperature when travelling. You will get tired quickly in hot weather, and cold weather has its own hazards with the wet conditions and if the rider is not warmly clothed. Avoid the far north of Australia in the wet season. I have found it best to travel in any month of the year without an R in it. Think about it (May, June, July, and August). April and September are also okay.

Do not ride on country roads if riding a motorcycle designed for city use. A specially designed motorbike is better for off-road or poor road conditions. Before setting out give careful thought to the choice of motorcycle; what are you going to pack your things in; what camping equipment and clothing are you going to take; how long are you going for?

The first thing you need to decide is where you are going; when you are going; and how long you are going for. This will dictate what you will need to purchase for your motorcycle holiday.

CHOOSING A MOTORCYCLE

Choosing a motorcycle that suits your body size and can carry the amount of equipment needed for the time and distance you intend travelling is your main priority. The following information is mainly dealing with choosing a motorcycle for your holiday and touring needs. However, it is still appropriate no matter what you are buying your motorbike for. Decide what you are going to be using your motorcycle for prior to looking around to buy one.

It is a mistake to buy a machine that is too big for the job. A large motorcycle is advisable only when two people need to travel a very long distance carrying a lot of gear. Select a popular make of machine if you will be travelling in the country, as spare parts may be hard to obtain and experienced mechanics unavailable.

A Lightweight Motorcycle (between 250 and 500cc engine capacity) is ideal for one person or for two travelling slowly over a short distance. Dual purpose machines with a single cylinder engine and universal tyres are recommended for travelling in remote areas. They are economical, relatively easy to repair and have the correct suspension and chassis for rough country. However, they have limited capacity for storing camping gear.

A Midweight Motorcycle (between 500 and 750cc) is an ideal touring machine. It can carry two people and has enough power for carrying camping gear, spares and food as well. Both twin and four cylinder motorbikes are available. The four cylinder varieties are smoother to ride. However, a twin cylinder machine is generally more economical. Whichever model you choose, make sure you know how to service it.

A Heavyweight Motorcycle (between 750 and 1200cc) is mainly for the dedicated tourer, long distance traveller or heavyweight connoisseur. Fuel consumption can almost equal that of the average car and indeed surpasses some small four cylinder cars. A heavyweight motorcycle will carry two people with ease. It will also carry much more equipment than a lighter bike. Lower engine stresses usually make large bikes more reliable.

Remember, you should know what you are going to do with it before choosing a motorcycle.