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Category: Tourism & Travel

  1. Motorcycle Autumnal Routes in the UK

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    Autumn is, for many, a season to retreat at home and be as cosy as possible. But this is not true for everyone, as many people like to explore nature and the landscape to take in all those beautiful autumnal colors and vibes. There are many routes that give their best during this time of the year, as trees change from green to orange and evenings get chilly. If you feel the need to take a trip in nature and want to explore the UK territory, we have some advice for you.

    In this article, we propose a series of routes in the UK to explore during this time of the year. So, if you are looking for more itineraries to try out this year, this short article is a great place to start looking. Continue reading to find out more about some of the best autumnal routes in the UK.

    South West Coastal 300 and North Coast 500 (Scotland)  North Coast 500 - on the A838 near Heilam - credit Simon Webster

    Let’s start out with the South West Coastal 300, which begins in Dumfries. This fantastic route is perfect for admiring the views of the Ayrshire coast. While heading inland to explore the Southern Highlands, you can get to the Mull of Galloway and even see the highest village, Wanlockhead. This route is considered one of the best UK routes to do during this time of the year if you want to surround yourself with amazing coastlines and seaside locations.

    The North Coast 500, on the other hand, starts and ends in Inverness, which is often considered to be the Scottish equivalent of the famous ‘Route 66’. If you want to surround yourself with the very best of the Scottish Highlands, this is the right route for you. 

    Usually, this route takes five days, but if you are looking for a longer trip, you can simply take a week off and enjoy 500 miles of scenery and pubs that often broadcast major sporting events like the Champions League. If you are lucky and plan your trip right, you could even find a fellow sports enthusiast to discuss the Champions League odds with over a dram of Scotch whisky. There is no point in rushing this route if you have the chance to take your time.

    Honister and Hardknott and Wrynose Pass (Lake District)  Hardknott Pass, from Jude Singleton

    The Honister Pass is perfect if you want to start in an urban and busy setting and then dive into a scenic motorcycle route. This itinerary starts in the busy town of Keswick and then passes by the Slate Mine, which is a popular tourist attraction. Be careful, though, as this road can be challenging for many due to its steep and narrow shape, as well as a gradient of 1 in 4. On the bright side, there is no traffic. 

    Hardknott Pass develops between Eskdale Road and Duddon Valley. It starts at Santon Bridge, cruises through Wrynose Pass, and continues to Ambleside. It is often described as one of the most challenging riding routes in Britain and the steepest road in Britain, with a gradient of 1 in 3. This route is perfect for autumn, as, due to its popularity, summer days are often particularly busy with traffic and tourists, so take that into consideration when planning your journey. 

    These were just some of the most amazing autumnal routes in the UK, but we are sure there are many more to consider all over this territory. Autumn is a wonderful time to explore nature and to ride surrounded by beautiful landscapes and scenery. So grab your favourite jacket and all the needed gear, and hop on your bike for a beautiful autumnal ride.

    Honister Slate Mine - Credit Dave Barton

     

     

     

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  2. Choosing the Right Motorcycle Shipping Company: Key Considerations

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    When transporting your beloved motorcycle, choosing the right shipping company is pivotal. Whether you're relocating, selling your bike, or sending it to a distant event, the safety and efficiency of the process largely depend on the company you select. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key considerations you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and stress-free motorcycle shipping experience.

    Researching Motorcycle Shipping Companies  RoadRunner, Nationwide Motorcycle Shipping, USA. America

    Before you entrust your prized possession to a motorcycle shipping company, thorough research is paramount. Start by delving into the company's reputation. Online reviews on Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau can offer invaluable insights into a company's reliability and service quality. Additionally, asking for recommendations from fellow motorcycle enthusiasts, friends, or local motorcycle clubs can lead you to reputable shipping companies with proven track records.

    Verify the shipping company's legitimacy. Check if they are registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and possess a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number. This ensures compliance with federal regulations. Furthermore, inquire about their insurance coverage to protect your motorcycle during transit.

    Types of Motorcycle Shipping Services

    Motorcycle shipping companies offer various service options for diverse needs and budgets. Understanding the available services is essential in making an informed choice. One of the primary decisions you'll face is choosing between open and enclosed shipping. This option is typically more budget-friendly. However, it exposes your motorcycle to the elements during transit. While it's generally safe, it may not be suitable for valuable or delicate bikes. Enclosed trailers offer superior protection against weather and road debris. This option is ideal for high-end or vintage motorcycles, providing an added layer of security during transport.

    Shipping Costs and Quotes

    Determining the cost of shipping your motorcycle is a crucial step in the selection process. Contact several motorcycle shipping companies and request detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include all potential fees and surcharges. Comparing multiple quotes will help you find a service that suits your budget. While cost-effectiveness is essential, be cautious of unusually low quotes. They might indicate subpar service or hidden fees. Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the quote before committing.

    Delivery Timeframes

    The timeline for shipping your motorcycle is another critical factor, especially if you have specific deadlines or events to attend. Determine whether the company offers standard or expedited shipping options. While standard shipping is more budget-friendly, expedited services can get your bike to its destination faster. Discuss your timeframe requirements with the shipping company to ensure they can meet your needs.

    Insurance Coverage

    Protecting your motorcycle during transit is paramount. Understanding the insurance coverage provided by the shipping company is vital. Inquire about the insurance coverage's limits and what it encompasses. Ensure you clearly understand how the insurance works and what steps to take in case of damage or loss.

    Check for Additional Services

    Some motorcycle shipping companies offer additional services that can enhance your overall experience. Find out if the company provides tracking options, allowing you to monitor your motorcycle's progress during transit. Clear communication channels with the shipping company can ease any concerns or questions.

    Customer Reviews and Testimonials  RoadRunner, Nationwide Motorcycle Shipping, America

    Beyond the initial research, look for customer reviews and testimonials about motorcycle shipping experiences with the company. Check out recent reviews to gauge the company's performance and customer satisfaction levels. Positive feedback from past customers can provide peace of mind.

    Conclusion

    Choosing the right motorcycle shipping company requires careful consideration of factors like reputation, services offered, cost, delivery timeframes, insurance coverage, and customer feedback. By conducting thorough research and asking the right questions, you can ensure your prized motorcycle is in capable hands, allowing for a worry-free shipping experience that preserves your bike's condition and value.

     

     

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  3. Driving the Wind: Feel the freedom in your hands as you enjoy the scenery

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    All motorcyclists are well aware of the benefits of traveling on such a mode of transportation as a motorcycle. However, not everyone chooses this type of recreation. Why is this the case? For example, there are other fascinating activities, such as playing in gambling establishments with casino first deposit bonus uk. Several other factors can deter even the most avid motorcyclists.

    However, to begin with, let us analyze everything step by step. Perhaps the following arguments will convince some to change their attitude and use the motorcycle as a recreation from everyday life on weekends, and not just as a means of transportation to and from work.

    Contact with Nature   BMW on tour in Germany

    Covering kilometers on two wheels, our body receives much more stimuli from the environment than when driving a car or other means of transportation (not counting paragliding or other even more extreme means). The proverbial «wind in our hair» and the feeling of «freedom» are not just empty slogans, but are among the most important reasons why I put this mode of transportation above others.

    One of the senses that work very strongly when driving is the sense of smell. Because is there anything more pleasant than the smell of a forest on a spring morning, or the smell of mountains on an alpine pass? In addition to the sense of smell, we sense all atmospheric factors, such as:

    · Temperature

    · Humidity

    · Wind

    · Rain

    · Fog

    · Etc...

    For some people, atmospheric factors beyond our control are unacceptable when traveling. After all, it's better to set the AC to 21 degrees and enjoy the views seen from behind the glass.

    Our sense of hearing also gets a lot more information, provided we have a civilized exhaust that meets any noise standards.

    The sense of balance, while driving on a winding road, gets so much stimulus that our brain starts producing incredible amounts of dopamine. As a result, it has a huge impact on our state of mind.

    The sense of space is also indescribable. It is impossible to feel this, being enclosed in a «can». Just think how many more sensations there are to remember after such a vacation.

    Saving

    A trivial matter, perhaps, because, after all, we do not go on vacation to save money, but to relax. However, the fact is that riding a motorcycle is much cheaper in terms of all tolls (highways, scenic roads, expressways), ferry crossings, tunnels, bridges, and so on. Parking fees are also much lower or nonexistent. And if we add it all up together, we find that we can extend our vacation by two or even three more days.

    Also, the money saved can be spent on another, no less interesting and exciting entertainment – a game of casino no minimum deposit uk. In addition, it is an ideal option not only to relax and rest from a hard road but also an opportunity to earn real money.

    Mobility

    With a motorcycle, we can not only go faster, but we can get into places where an ordinary passenger car can't or won't. Of course, it depends on what kind of equipment you are driving, but even riding a chase bike you can drive a piece of light gravel or terrain. In most resort towns, the problem of driving into the center and looking for a parking spot disappears.

    The problem of standing in traffic jams also disappears, which during the vacation season greatly improves the comfort of travel. In addition to these obvious issues, local law enforcement officers look at people traveling on a motorcycle differently from those traveling by car.

    Minimum luggage  Packed

    Some consider this a plus, while others consider it the biggest problem. Well, because how to pack all the essentials for a two-week trip? There are no major problems if you ride solo. More gymnastics is required if you're going for two. Well, after all, it fits to take «so many» things that «may» be needed.

    From personal experience, many people know that only the essentials are useful during such a vacation:

    · Underwear

    · Flip-flops

    · A pair of shirts

    · Jeans

    · Sweatshirt

    · Sneakers

    There is no need to take a whole closet of clothes and shoes with us because we only use 25% of what we take with us during our vacation anyway. Besides, we can always buy ourselves something from a local store or simply wash it, and the problem is solved.

    If we plan the whole trip well, we can also predict exactly what things we will need and what we will not need. If we plan to sleep in guesthouses, then we drop a lot of things that we would have to take with us, choosing the option of spending the night at campsites or campgrounds. So proper planning helps a lot in taking only the necessary things

    Unforgettable adventures

    Somehow it's the case that every ride, tour, or, finally, motorcycle trip, is an unforgettable adventure. Something always happens, we always encounter some interesting situations. Sometimes someone runs out of fuel, or a license plate falls off, or someone gets lost, and so on. You bring back a whole lot of such memories from every trip.

    Answer the question yourself, how many times, while on vacation somewhere, have you thought: «as if it would be great to ride this road on a motorcycle»? Or: «someday I will come back here on a motorcycle»? There's nothing easier than going on vacation on a motorcycle, and if there's a problem with luggage or space for the kids you can always take the motorcycle with you on a trailer. However, this is already a topic for a separate article.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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  4. What to Pack for a Long Motorcycle Road Trip

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    A motorcycle road trip is an enjoyable experience that all motorbike lovers should have at least once in their lives. You get to enjoy long rides and visit different scenic locations. To make things easier for you, it is crucial to bring some essential supplies. To help you out, we have put together a list of essential and optional items to bring on your road trip.

    Motorcycle Clothing

    The first things you should set aside to bring on the road trip are your motorcycle clothing. These will include your helmet, trouser, jackets and gloves. You will also need some riding boots and socks and earplugs. As you purchase these items, make sure they are breathable and comfortable because you will be wearing them for long stretches.

    A Tool Kit

    You never know what will happen on the road trip, and this is why you need to bring your tool kit. You might not have the option to visit the nearest store to get what you need or to have your bike repaired so you may need to do it yourself.

    Some essentials to bring include a repair kit for flat tyres, a socket and wrench kit, screwdrivers, jumper cables, spare parts, an air compressor and wheel removal tools. You can also include other tools as you see fit.

    A Selection of Electronics

    It is reasonable to assume that if you are going on a long road trip, you will stop somewhere for a night or two to rest and recharge. To avoid getting bored during these downtimes, it would be a good idea to carry a selection of electronics with you.

    You will need your phone to stay in touch with your loved ones and to navigate when travelling through new locations. It is also a good idea to bring a tablet or laptop to have some entertainment when sleeping in a hotel or motel. Your selection of a tablet or laptop is a highly personal and subjective decision. Any of the modern Apple tablets should be fine, and you need a laptop that provides a great video viewing experience.

    Choosing one can be challenging, especially since you need an affordable one with long battery life and great performance. Laptops with Intel Arc graphics perform well without consuming too much power and thus give you the long battery life you will need. Check out this guide on Intel Arc graphics provided by Lenovo to see why this option would be great for you.

    Other electronics to consider include power banks, memory cards, a camera, a GPS tracker and a USB with backups of your important information.

    Hygiene Items

    You should also pack some toiletry and hygiene items. These include sunscreen, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, shaving kit and bug spray. As with the tools, you can also include other hygiene items as you see fit.

    Safety Items Safety is crucial, especially if you will be riding alone. You will need a torch and extra batteries, a location tracker (you can use your GPS), a spare key, bike lock, protein bars in case you are stranded and a cover for the bike and other items.

    Packing a bag for a motorcycle road trip will depend on what you need, but there are some essentials you should not leave behind. Some will make your stay at a hotel more comfortable, while some will save you should you become stranded or lost.

     

     

     

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  5. Classic ‘80s Rock Songs to Amp Up Your Next Bike Trip

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    The open road is calling your name. You have your bike all packed up and ready to go. But wait, what about the soundtrack to your journey? Every great adventure needs an epic playlist, and we’ve got just the thing.   

    Classic ‘80s Rock Songs to Amp Up Your Next Bike Trip
    Image source

    Did you know that music can actually improve your biking performance? It’s true! The right tunes can help you power through a difficult hill climb or keep your energy up during a long stretch of flat road.

    Here are classic 80s rock songs to amp up your next bike trip. If you’re an expert on ‘80s rock music, you’re bound to recognize a few tunes.

    1. Bon Jovi - Wanted Dead or Alive

    Released in 1986, this Bon Jovi classic is the perfect song to get you pumped up for a day of biking. The energetic guitars and catchy lyrics will keep you motivated all day long.

    2. Guns N’ Roses - Paradise City

    This high-octane rock anthem is sure to get your heart racing. Let loose and enjoy the wind in your hair as you bike to this 1987 classic.

    3. Queen - Another One Bites the Dust

    If you need a pick-me-up, this is the song for you. The catchy beat and upbeat lyrics will instantly put a smile on your face. And who doesn’t love a little bit of Queen?

    4. Journey - Don’t Stop Believin’

    This feel-good anthem is the perfect way to end your bike trip. Let the music wash away all your fatigue and worries as you reflect on an incredible journey.

    5. AC/DC - Back in Black

    This is the perfect song to rock out to as you cruise down the open road. Turn it up loud and enjoy the ride!

    6. Europe - The Final Countdown

    If you’re looking for an motivational song, this is it. The opening keyboard riff will give you chills as you prepare for an epic adventure. Released in 1986, this song is sure to get you pumped up for a great bike trip.

    7. Van Halen - Jump

    This 1984 classic is the perfect song to get you moving. The fast tempo and upbeat lyrics will keep your energy up all day long.

    8. REO Speedwagon - Can’t Fight This Feeling

    If you’re looking for a slower-paced song to enjoy, this ballad from 1984 is perfect. It’s the perfect way to reflect on your journey and appreciate the scenery around you.

    9. Pat Benatar - Hit Me With Your Best Shot

    This 1980 anthem is perfect for anyone who loves to rock out while they bike. The high-energy guitars and powerful vocals will keep you motivated all day long.

    10. Cheap Trick - I Want You to Want Me

    This 1979 classic is a great song to sing at the top of your lungs while you bike. The catchy chorus is sure to stay stuck in your head all day long.

    11. Foreigner - Juke Box Hero

    This song is all about living life to the fullest and taking chances. What better way to do that than by going on a bike trip? Let the music inspire you to seize the day!

    12. George Thorogood & The Destroyers - Bad to the Bone

    This song is the perfect way to show off your badass biking skills. The heavy guitars and tough lyrics will make you feel like a rockstar.

    13. ZZ Top - Sharp Dressed Man

    If you’re looking to add a little country flair to your playlist, this song is perfect. The slide guitar and laid-back vocals will make you feel right at home on the open road.

    14. Survivor - Eye of the Tiger

    This song is sure to get your blood pumping. It’s the perfect anthem for anyone who wants to conquer their next biking challenge.

    15. Def Leppard - Pour Some Sugar On Me

    This sexy little number is perfect for anyone who wants to have a little fun on their bike trip. Turn up the volume and let loose!

    16. Bon Jovi - Livin’ On a Prayer

    This classic Bon Jovi tune is the perfect song to sing at the top of your lungs. The inspirational lyrics will keep you going when the going gets tough.

    17. Van Halen - Panama

    This high-energy rock song is sure to get your heart racing. Let the fast tempo motivate you to push yourself to the limit on your next biking adventure.

    18. AC/DC - You Shook Me All Night Long

    This 1980 anthem is the perfect way to get pumped up for a long day of biking. The catchy chorus and upbeat tempo will keep you moving all day long.

    19. Pat Benatar - Love Is a Battlefield

    This powerful ballad is the perfect way to reflect on your journey. The emotional lyrics will stay with you long after the bike trip is over.

    20. Journey - Any Way You Want It

    This feel-good anthem is the perfect way to end your bike trip. Let the music wash away all your fatigue and worries as you reflect on an incredible journey.

    So there you have it, a classic 80s rock playlist to help you amp up your next bike trip. Now all that’s left to do is hit the open road and enjoy the ride!

     

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