Best Motorcycle Roads

In this episode, Tom continues his journey of reevaluating his motorcycle gear after a 5,200-mile ride. This is Part 2 of the series, where he breaks down what worked, what didn’t, and how he’s planning to overhaul his setup. From mesh jackets that stick to seats to oversized rain gear, Tom and Todd discuss everything from gear failures to their future gear choices, including Tom's love for his boots and new discoveries like the Bonn Body Armor. Tune in to hear about Tom’s upcoming changes, the search for better helmets and gloves, and how he’s planning to fix his luggage issues.

Products Mentioned:

Bonn Body Armor: https://www.bohnarmor.com

Thoroughgood American Heritage Midnight Series Boots: https://amzn.to/3B4F8D0

Kuryakyn Rack Bags: https://amzn.to/3Xs6ISb

Russell Day Long Seats: https://day-long.com

Viking Bags: https://www.vikingbags.com

Timecodes:

0:00 – Introduction: Why Tom's throwing out all his gear

1:00 – Review of gear failures from the trip

2:45 – The old Joe Rocket jacket mishap

4:20 – Pants that just don’t work anymore

5:50 – Rain gear that doesn't pack down

8:00 – Future plan: New gear and brand considerations

9:30 – Bonn Body Armor: What’s new and why it's the future

12:45 – Gloves that fit well with buttons

15:20 – Helmets: The never-ending search for the perfect one

18:50 – Heated gear: Is it worth it?

20:45 – Luggage issues and solutions

25:00 – Seat comfort: Is a new Russell Day Long seat the answer?

26:30 – Handlebar adjustments: Heli risers discussion

28:00 – Toolkit recap: Lessons learned from gear failures

29:00 – Closer: Final thoughts and BMR Rider Alerts

Social Links:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

BMR Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

BMR Rider Alert: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/rideralert/

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like and subscribe, and sign up for our BMR Rider Alerts to stay informed about new episodes and adventures. We promise—no spam!

Sponsor/Affiliate Links: If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, reach out here: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact

#MotorcycleGear #MotorcyclePodcast #GoldwingRiders #LongDistanceRiding #AdventureRiding #MotorcycleSafety #BonnBodyArmor #RussellDayLong #VikingBags #MotorcycleHelmets

Summary

In this episode, we reflect on a grueling 12-day, 5,200-mile ride across the U.S. While the stunning landscapes were unforgettable, the real focus is on why my motorcycle gear didn’t make the cut. From cold, rain-soaked mornings to uncomfortable, worn-out gear, this episode delves into the harsh realities of long-distance riding and why it’s time to overhaul my setup.

Timecodes

0:00 - Fat Smitty’s adventures

0:08 - Comparing a 5,200-mile trip to shorter rides

1:00 - Day 1: Iowa to Rapid City, SD

2:16 - Day 2: Rapid City, SD to Big Timber, MT

4:00 - The must-see roads near Mount Rushmore

6:05 - Day 8: Olympic Island loop ride

10:36 - Why I’m ditching my gear

17:44 - Toolkit: The Watersy Jug review

22:32 - What’s next: My plan to overhaul my gear

Products and Gear Mentioned

Watersy Jug - https://amzn.to/3Xgjxit

Drink Tube Set - https://amzn.to/3XjXOWL

Water Bladder Tube Cover Insulation - https://amzn.to/3XBAnJN

Clear Vinyl Tubing Food Grade - https://amzn.to/4eivD1q

Subscribe

Make sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date on all our motorcycle adventures!

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/BestMotorcycleRoads

Ways to Work with Us

Want to support the show or work with us? Check out https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact

Connect with Us

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

BMR Rider Alerts: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/rideralert

Disclaimer

This episode is not sponsored, but we may include affiliate links in the show notes.

Summary

Tom and Todd provide valuable insights into planning motorcycle trips, focusing on how to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment. It opens with a humorous take on internet advice, then delves into the inquiry that led to the podcast topic: optimizing bike modifications and trip planning for longer rides. Todd and his co-host discuss their experiences and share ten key tips, such as starting with short trips, detailed route planning, packing smart, staying hydrated, preparing for weather changes, and connecting with local riders. They emphasize documenting the journey for future memories, ensuring preparation, and the importance of flexibility during the trip.

Bottom Line

Document your trips. Not only will you treasure the memories, but you'll also have invaluable insights for future rides.

Mile Marker

How to Plan a Great Motorcycle Trip

Tom and Todd dive into the importance of thorough planning and how even the smallest details can make or break your ride. They discuss the significance of starting small and preparing meticulously to ensure comfort and safety on longer trips.

Toolkit

The hosts highlight crucial gear such as multi-tools and rain gear. They emphasize the importance of compact, high-quality rain gear that can be easily stored and accessed during your ride.

Timecodes

- 00:00 - Welcome to the Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast

- 00:17 - Mile Marker: How to plan a great motorcycle trip

- 00:53 - Planning your first trip

- 02:34 - Top 10 Tips for Planning a Motorcycle Trip

- 02:52 - Tip 10: Start Small

- 03:41 - Tip 9: Plan your route in detail

- 05:07 - Tip 8: Prepare your bike

- 06:00 - Tip 7: Pack Smart

- 07:15 - Tip 6: Gear up for Comfort

- 09:17 - Tip 5: Know your limits

- 10:05 - Tip 4: Plan for Fuel and Rest Stops

- 11:05 - Tip 3: Stay Flexible

- 12:21 - Tip 2: Connecting with Local Riders

- 14:50 - Tip 1: Document the Journey

- 16:31 - Toolkit Essentials: Gear and Tips

Social Links

- YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads

- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

- Best Motorcycle Roads: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

- BMR Rider Alert: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/rideralert/

Sponsor Links

- Interested in sponsoring? Contact us at https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Best Motorcycle Roads - Episode 33: Discovering Minnesota's Top Motorcycle Roads

Join us as we explore the top motorcycle roads in Minnesota, from the North Shore Scenic Drive to the Great River Road. Plus, we discuss essential gear and planning tips for your ride.

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

Ways to Work with Us:

Become a Sponsor: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Connect with us!

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads  @BestMotorcycleRoads 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

Website: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/

Question: What's your favorite motorcycle road in Minnesota? Leave your answer in the comments!

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

1:00 - Pre-Roll (Email List Promotion)

1:30 - The Toolkit (Notepad & Voice Recorder for Trip Notes)

2:45 - Ride Wise (Deer Safety Tips in Minnesota)

5:08 - Mile Marker (Top 5 Minnesota Motorcycle Roads)

5:43 - Highway 38 through Chippewa National Forest

6:17 - North Shore Scenic Drive (Highway 61)

6:51 - Root River Trail Scenic Byway

7:54 - Great River Road

8:54 - Gunflint Trail

10:29 - Bonus Roads (Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway & Lake Itasca)

12:35 - Website & Subscribe

13:08 - Roadside Q&A (Hidden Gem Roads in Minnesota)

16:07 - The Last Mile (Reflections on Minnesota)

#MotorcycleRoads #MinnesotaMotorcycleRides #BestMotorcycleRoads #RideSafe #MotorcycleGear

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! Hosted by Tom and Todd, we share our 65+ years of motorcycling experience to help you make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Each episode dives into technology, planning, packing, routes, and everything in between. From essential prep to unforgettable routes, we've got you covered.

Best Motorcycle Roads - Episode 32: Exploring Michigan's Scenic Motorcycle Routes

Join us as we explore the top motorcycle roads in Michigan, highlighting the most scenic routes and hidden gems. Plus, we discuss essential motorcycle gear and maintenance tips for your ride.

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

Ways to Work with Us:

Become a Sponsor: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Connect with us!

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads  @BestMotorcycleRoads 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

Website: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/

Question: What's your favorite motorcycle road in Michigan? Leave your answer in the comments!

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

1:00 - Pre-Roll (Email List Promotion)

1:30 - The Toolkit (Essential Motorcycle Gear & Maintenance Tips)

4:10 - Ride Wise (Planning Tips for Michigan Motorcycle Rides)

7:09 - Mile Marker (Top 5 Michigan Motorcycle Roads)

7:45 - Tunnel of Trees Road

8:45 - M-22

10:03 - US-41 to Copper Harbor

10:37 - Lake Michigan Circle Tour

11:42 - Huron River Drive

13:41 - Website & Subscribe

14:13 - Roadside Q&A (Hidden Gem Roads in Michigan)

17:32 - The Last Mile (Reflections on Michigan)

#MotorcycleRoads #MichiganMotorcycleRides #BestMotorcycleRoads #RideSafe #MotorcycleGear

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! Hosted by Tom and Todd, we share our 65+ years of motorcycling experience to help you make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Each episode dives into technology, planning, packing, routes, and everything in between. From essential prep to unforgettable routes, we've got you covered.

Best Motorcycle Roads - Episode 31: Discover Wisconsin's Top Motorcycle Roads

Join us as we explore the top motorcycle roads in Wisconsin, including hidden gems like the Driftless Area and the Great River Road. Plus, we discuss essential multi-tools and first aid kits for your ride.

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

Ways to Work with Us:

Become a Sponsor: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Connect with us!

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads  @BestMotorcycleRoads 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

Website: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/

Question: What's your favorite motorcycle road in Wisconsin? Leave your answer in the comments!

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

1:00 - Pre-Roll (Email List Promotion)

1:30 - The Toolkit (Multi-Tools & First Aid Kits)

4:10 - Ride Wise (Planning Tips for Wisconsin Motorcycle Rides)

7:09 - Mile Marker (Top 5 Wisconsin Motorcycle Roads)

7:45 - Eau Claire to La Crosse (Black River Falls)

9:30 - Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Ride

10:34 - Ride the Alphabet (County Roads)

10:34 - Wisconsin Great River Road

11:42 - Driftless Area

13:41 - Website & Subscribe

14:13 - Roadside Q&A (Hidden Gem Roads in Wisconsin)

17:32 - The Last Mile (Reflections on Wisconsin)

#MotorcycleRoads #WisconsinMotorcycleRides #BestMotorcycleRoads #RideSafe #MotorcycleGear

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! Hosted by Tom and Todd, we share our 65+ years of motorcycling experience to help you make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Each episode dives into technology, planning, packing, routes, and everything in between. From essential prep to unforgettable routes, we've got you covered.

Best Motorcycle Roads - Episode 30: Top Motorcycle Roads in Illinois

Discover the best motorcycle roads in Illinois, from the Great River Scenic Byway to the iconic Lincoln Highway. We also dive into heat gear essentials for summer riding and share tips for planning your next adventure.

Subscribe to our Podcast/second channel:

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

Ways to Work with Us:

Become a Sponsor: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Connect with us!

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

Website: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/

Question: What's your favorite motorcycle road in Illinois? Leave your answer in the comments!

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

1:00 - Pre-Roll (Email List Promotion)

1:30 - The Toolkit (Heat Gear for Summer Riding)

3:15 - Ride Wise (Planning Tips for Illinois Motorcycle Rides)

7:09 - Mile Marker (Top 5 Illinois Motorcycle Roads)

7:45 - Great River Scenic Byway

8:45 - Illinois River Road

10:03 - Kankakee River Road

10:37 - Illinois Lincoln Highway

11:38 - Great River Road

13:41 - Website & Subscribe

14:13 - Roadside Q&A (Hidden Gem Roads in Illinois)

16:52 - The Last Mile (Reflections on Illinois)

#MotorcycleRoads #IllinoisMotorcycleRides #BestMotorcycleRoads #RideSafe #MotorcycleGear

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! Hosted by Tom and Todd, we share our 65+ years of motorcycling experience to help you make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Each episode dives into technology, planning, packing, routes, and everything in between. From essential prep to unforgettable routes, we've got you covered.

Best Motorcycle Roads - Episode 29: Exploring the Top 5 Motorcycle Roads in Missouri

Discover Missouri's best motorcycle roads, from the Glade Top Trail to the iconic Route 66. We also cover hydration tips for your ride and essential gear for staying hydrated on long trips.

Subscribe to our Podcast:

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

Become a Sponsor: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Connect with us!

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads  @BestMotorcycleRoads 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

Website: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/

Question: What's your favorite motorcycle road in Missouri? Leave your answer in the comments!

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

⏰ Timecodes ⏰

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

1:00 - Pre-Roll (Email List Promotion)

1:30 - The Toolkit (Hydration Options for Motorcycles)

4:24 - Ride Wise (Hydration Tips for Hot Weather Riding)

10:06 - Mile Marker (Top 5 Missouri Motorcycle Roads)

10:43 - Glade Top Trail

13:18 - Ozark Hellbender

14:54 - Missouri Highway 90

16:28 - Missouri 19

17:35 - Route 66

19:48 - Website & Subscribe

20:25 - Roadside Q&A (Tips for Riding Route 66)

23:35 - The Last Mile (Reflections on Missouri)

#MotorcycleRoads #MissouriMotorcycleRides #BestMotorcycleRoads #RideSafe #MotorcycleGear

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! Hosted by Tom and Todd, we share our 65+ years of motorcycling experience to help you make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Each episode dives into technology, planning, packing, routes, and everything in between. From essential prep to unforgettable routes, we've got you covered.

Best Motorcycle Roads - Episode 28: Iowa's Hidden Gems Revealed!

Ready to discover the top motorcycle roads in Iowa? From tire plug kits to gravel road tips, and exploring Iowa's scenic byways, we've got you covered!

Subscribe to our Podcast/second channel:

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast/

Ways to Work with Us:

Become a Sponsor:

https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact/

Connect with us!

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads  @BestMotorcycleRoads 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads/

Website: https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/

Question: What's your favorite motorcycle road in Iowa? Leave your answer in the comments!

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

Timecodes

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

1:00 - Pre-Roll (Email List Promotion)

1:30 - The Toolkit (Tire Plug Kits & Inflation Tools)

4:50 - Ride Wise (Gravel Road Tips)

9:00 - Mile Marker (Top 5 Iowa Motorcycle Roads)

18:00 - Website & Subscribe

19:00 - Roadside Q&A (Adventure Riding in Iowa)

20:50 - The Last Mile (Reflections)

23:00 - Closer

#MotorcycleRoads #IowaMotorcycleRides #BestMotorcycleRoads #RideSafe #MotorcycleGear

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! Hosted by Tom and Todd, we share our 65+ years of motorcycling experience to help you make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Each episode dives into technology, planning, packing, routes, and everything in between. From essential prep to unforgettable routes, we've got you covered.

Exploring Minnesota’s Scenic and Quirky Routes!** 🏍️ Join us as we dive into another thrilling ride through Minnesota, discovering breathtaking views and unique attractions. 🚴‍♂️

Join the BMR Crew and Stay Updated! 📬

Sign up for BMR Rider Alerts [https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/rideralert].

All Products and Gear Mentioned in This Video:

- Air Hawk Seat Cushions

- Heated Motorcycle Gloves

Subscribe to Our Podcast:

Best Motorcycle Roads Podcast [https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/podcast]

Ways to Work with Us:

- Become a Sponsor [https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact]

- Contact Us for Collaborations [https://bestmotorcycleroads.com/contact]

Connect with Us!

- YouTube: Best Motorcycle Roads [https://www.youtube.com/@BestMotorcycleRoads]

- Facebook: Motorcycle Roads and Trips [https://www.facebook.com/motorcycleroadsandtrips]

- Instagram: Best Motorcycle Roads [https://www.instagram.com/bestmotorcycleroads]

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, which means if you buy something, we'll receive a small commission.

⏰ Timecodes:

0:00 - Teaser

0:15 - Intro

0:45 - Pre-Roll

1:13 - The Toolkit (Seat Comfort Solutions)

5:17 - Ride Wise (Fall Riding Tips)

9:42 - Mile Marker (Minnesota Trip Plan)

15:54 - Roadside Q&A (Great River Road vs. North Shore Road)

19:16 - The Last Mile (Reflections)

21:18 - Closer

#BestMotorcycleRoads #MotorcycleSafety #MinnesotaScenicRide

About:

Welcome to Best Motorcycle Roads! We are Tom and Todd, and with over 65 years of combined motorcycling experience, we aim to make your next motorcycle trip the best it can be. Our channel covers everything from essential prep to unforgettable routes, ensuring you have all the tips and tools for an epic ride. Join us as we explore the best roads and share our adventures with you.