Motorcycle Explorer December 2014 Issue 3 | Page 191

Y
ou are never that far from the beaten track (or tarmac road) in the UK, but sensible
preparation can still mean the difference between an enjoyable day out and a long push
followed by a wait for a recovery truck.
There’s no point in taking a load of heavy tools that you will never use with you, but as a
minimum you need sufficient spanners to get your wheels out and back in again, and to
slacken off your fork yokes and loosen/tighten handlebar levers. You also need the means
to fix a puncture, and some cable ties, duct tape and WD40 are all capable of getting
otherwise disabled bikes moving again.
Maps of where you are going are essential (smartphones/satnavs can lose charge, lose
signal or get smashed to expensive splinters) and a rudimentary first-aid kit is also a good
idea.
If riding with companions you can be wise and make sure that you don’t all end up carrying
three heavy tyre levers, for example. Share the load between you and use the extra space
liberated to carry a towing strap.
Some food and drink is also essential…a hot day will easily see you get through three litres
of water.
But probably the most important things to take with you are a positive attitude and a sense
of adventure. You will at some point fall off or get stuck, but, properly prepared you will
survive unscathed, and with the right attitude its interesting how quickly negative
experiences are turned into positives.
Next time:
Where are the best places to
ride…and how can we make sure
that we keep them that way?