General Category > LONG DISTANCE RIDING, Proper preparation, Safety and Tips

short ride gearing

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hobs:
Hi Guys,

Just a quick note to ask you guys what are the essential takes when doing a short ride 400 / 500kl.

Going for a days trip nth of Port Augusta and back.

Haven't rode that far from home before and wanted to make sure I had necessary goods in case of problems.

Don't expect any bike issues, but would value ideas on creature comforts needed before leaving home.

West Aussie Glen:
I would recommend a few things
A good sleep the night before
Be prepared to have regular stops, it is amazing what a quick walk around the bike does for your sore behind.
Remain hydrated
Nth of Pt Augusta means a careful watch for wildlife.
When passing any trucks just be ready for some air turbulence
I guess you are heading to Woomera or somewhere close so check for fuel availability
Also make sure someone knows your plan for the day.
Have a great ride, you will enjoy the open road.
The usual checks before leaving, especially tyre condition and pressure.

Poppy Dave:
I always carry a small compressor and tyre plugs wherever I go. So far I've only used them on someone else's bike and my daughter's car but "Be prepared".


Poppy                                            :wht13

StinkyPete:
I totally agree with Glen and Poppy Dave, and  here's my own additional tips.

Full check of bike fluids and tyre pressures before you go
Fill with fuel before you go, and plan your fuel stops
Wear/Take whatever you may need to be physically warm and confortable
Consider wearing a scarf or one of those "Buff" tubes about your neck
It's easier to take an extra jumper and your winter gloves in the pannier, than wish you hadn't left them home
Wear earplugs, as it's far less tiring to ride when you are not bothered by wind noise
Carry waterproof and windproof clothing as the weather may not be what you expect, or you may need them to keep you warm
Wear suncream on your face, 'cause your nose will get burnt through the visor
Drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol until you get home
Avoid a heavy meal at lunchtime, which may help to make you sleepy in the afternoon
I don't ride with music, but I know that many enjoy it while riding
Savour the time on the open road, and appreciate what this vast and beautiful country has to offer, as wide open spaces are non-existant in many parts of the world.
Enjoy the ride, you lucky bugger, and tell us how you got on when you get home, 'cause I never want to forget the adventure of my first long rides.   :thumbsup

alans1100:
Fuel between Port Augusta and Woomera isn't an issue......there isn't any. Truck stop at Pimba on the highway at the turn off to Woomera is the fuel point.

It's only just over 250kms from Whyalla so not an issue with an ST.  After that Glendambo (+121kms) and Coober Pedy (+255kms) but I doubt your going that far.

http://goo.gl/maps/HdLCj

Some parking bays along the route have water tanks.......they were originally put there for drinking water but can't be relied on these days due to vandalism.

There are views of the salt lakes as you near Woomera and depending on the day you might get to see the Ghan or Indian Pacific as the track and road come close at some points.

Usual checks for the bike going up there. Plus a couple days spare water/food.......better to have it and not need it rather than the other option. Same for wet weather gear.

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