Motorcycle Tips for Touring Grandmas

Selecting the correct motorcycle for your height, ambitions, length of trips, new or second-hand, and mode of the ride is imperative before you purchase.

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It is never too late to start your dream! Motorcycle touring for women and grandmas has increased rapidly over the last 10 years. Reliability of that make of bike and how long you can go on a tank of petrol as a woman is important. The cost of the correct insurance for what you want to do must be researched. Your gear essentials are just as crucial. Solo or group riding?

What is Motorcycling Touring?

Touring motorcycles are often big motorcycles with big engines so they can cope for miles on the open road. Don’t be scared of these terms. Many women, yes, and grandmas, can cope with these motorcycles and ride them easily, but most importantly you need to choose the correct one for your size and height. For example, think of a small car that would overheat on a long journey, compared to a larger car that is quite comfortable going further distances.

Considerations for Touring Motorcycles

Think about what the bike also needs to carry, such as luggage, therefore more weight is added. You can travel in groups or solo, but as a woman, I highly suggest traveling in groups or with a partner. Deciding the distance you travel is personal, there is no right or wrong, so maybe your journey is 100 km or 1000’s km. What is the experience for? Not to please others but rather to have that incredible, exhilarating adventure to satisfy your inner soul.

Go on a Motorcycle Safety Course FIRST

Whether you are a beginner, rode bikes when you were younger, or require a refresher course if you are experienced, I do advise you initially go on a motorcycle safety course. When you are starting to search for your new or used motorcycle, the place where you are looking, in whatever state or country, will be able to give you contact details who to contact to book this course.

What Happens on a Safety Course?

• Professionally certified instructors give the course.
• It includes the different types of motorcycles.
• Instructs you how the bike functions, laws, and safety tips.
• You learn a great deal and have assignments, an exam, and a practical course.
• They supply helmets and motorcycles.
• Beneficial to do this prior to buying your motorcycle.
• A completed course helps to get your license.
• Assists you from having a nasty accident

A Niche Internationally Certified Instructor – OpenRider

Recommendation for a women-only platform – Her youngest grandma was 47 and her oldest is 75.

This is a profound niche motorcycling coaching program, initiated by Morag Campbell in South Africa. I love this form of coaching as not only do you receive instruction on how to ride a motorcycle, whether touring, sport, adventure, or off-road.

“experience the integration of mind, body and emotion in a simple and enjoyable manner. The result is new skills and improved confidence, and the ability to apply your mind and body more effectively in both riding and everyday life”.

Morag Campbell

Meet like-minded women

Being a women’s only coaching session, you meet other like-minded women and enter into the motorcycle community without feeling like you are an outsider. Friendship and advice are shared and your new perspective on travel will change forever.

Support of different bike brands

They have the support of different bike brands. One type of bike may suit one person, yet another brand, another, and this also include gear, but here you will receive genuine advice, not just a salesman trying to make a quick sale, giving you the opportunity to try different equipment and see what suits you best.

Selection of different courses

Morag offers a selection of courses and will organize a tailor-made course if you require it. These courses are located in a beautiful area just outside Johannesburg, in the Cradle of Humankind, with training grounds that are safe and a selection of small bikes and basic gear supplied. Have a look at the OpenRider courses. To me, if living in South Africa, this is a must!

10 Tips on How to get started on Becoming a Motorcycle Grandma

Even before you start deciding what motorcycle to purchase, there are a couple of things I suggest you do.

1. For you to be considering touring with a motorcycle, you must have an incredible passion for motorcycles inside of you. Whether you did this in the past or just want to do this now, you obviously have been thinking about it for some time.
2. Join some social motorcycle networking groups and clubs. Ask questions that concern you. These one-on-one conversations will give you so many answers.
3. Read avidly motorcycle magazines and other books, including motorcycle maintenance. You need to familiarize yourself with the different parts of a bike. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Motorcycles is my type of guide. If you are planning to do a great deal of camping on your trips, The Fundamentals of Motorcycle Camping is a definite win. Road Runner is a super magazine. Extremely helpful! Both are from Amazon. A lovely, inspirational read is The MotoLady’s Book of Women Who Ride: Motorcycle Heroes, Trailblazers & Record-Breakers
4. Go out by car on some motorcycle daytime rallies. Chat with other ladies who are doing the breakfast run or daytime runs on the motorcycles they have and why. What are the biggest problems they have and what are the best times they have had? Find out about their gear. First-hand knowledge and understanding can help you decide what not to buy.
5. Ride on numerous pillion outings. A pillion is a seat behind the rider. You will get a very good “feel” of the “bend”, going fast, overtaking motorcars, stopping, and the exhilaration of the ride.
6. See what motorcycle clubs or chapters there are in your area. Contact them and ask if you can attend one or two meetings.
7. Identify why you want to ride. They say your relationship with your motorcycle becomes a love affair between the bike, road, and rider.
8. List your fears and examine them.
9. Start getting yourself fit. Sitting on a motorcycle for hours can be exhausting. You will need to start small and then build yourself up.
10. Make sure you are healthy. Plan your trips during warmer months.

10 Tips on the Type of Touring Bike you are looking at Purchasing

• Check your budget first and see how much you can afford. Take the cost of the riding gear accessories or modifications into account
• What size motor should you be buying what type of touring will you be doing?
• Think about the color of your bike. As a woman, we do like a bit of color
• What types of touring will you be doing
• Make note of the front-facing fairing. Is it large enough to deflect wind from all around you?
• If you want a second-hand motorcycle, make sure it has a maintenance plan and not too high mileage. Has the bike ever been in an accident? Look at the tires; when will they need to be replaced
• When sitting on the bike what is your posture like? It must be supportive, yet you must have the flexibility to react quickly. Your seating position must be for comfort. The seat is further down and the peg for your feet is a bit more forward. Many touring bikes come with an adjustable seat.
• Can you reach the ground comfortably?
• How heavy is the model? Are you overpowering the bike or is it overpowering you?
• What insurance should you choose for the model you want

“You don’t stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding.”
― Anonymous

What size of Touring Motorcycle is practical for a woman

Of course, women can ride a bike of any size. I know women who travel the country on BMW R1200 and other large bikes, but I think we need to be sensible and look at different characteristics in purchasing. Are you short like me, only 5ft 2 inches? I need to reach the ground comfortably. My age, and my experience in handling a bike. You need to purchase something that you feel comfortable with and that suits your style.

If the bike does not allow you to sit in the saddle without touching the ground, that is a bit pointless. Get a scooped-out styled seat. This allows for more comfort too. Lowering kits can also be purchased from the motorcycle retailer.

What is the steering like? Some bikes are awful to steer. Find out how the bike maneuvers corners. The brakes! Yip, they need to be balanced and act quickly.

What Gear do you need for your Adventure?

This is so important. Gone are the myths that you need all the hectic motorcycle leather jackets and pants, that after half an hour of riding, you feel so uncomfortable, you just want to go home.

Helmet

You need a helmet and it is the law that you wear one. Don’t buy a cheap one. Dr John Adams at London University did a study and his research showed that motorcycle riders take greater risks because they are wearing a helmet. You need to keep the wind out of your eyes, dirt, and bugs too. Helmets can prevent brain injuries and facial injuries, but if you wear a heavy helmet and go along the ground at a greater speed, neck injuries will occur. Go for a lighter one. Speed and riding under the influence of alcohol are the greatest causes of fatalities. Avoid both! The ILM Motorcycle Street Bike Full Face Helmet Anti-fog Pinlock Shield Snowmobile Helmets are a good choice. Not too heavy either.

The main difference between a motorcycle helmet and a snowmobile helmet is the addition of a double-pane lens (heated or non-heated), and a breath deflector to direct the flow of condensation away from the face shield or goggles.” – Typhoon Helmets.

Gloves

Like your helmet, your gloves are critical. If you do fall they protect your hands. Make sure they have extra protection on the knuckles and fingers. When you wear them, your hand must feel comfortable inside and you must be able to move your fingers easily.

These Women ’s Touchscreen Motorcycle Gloves Full Finger Black Leather Armored Ladies Motorbike Gloves are soft, breathable, made from goatskin leather, and light. What I like about them the most is the touch screen capabilities on the index finger so you can use your mobile phone without having to remove your glove

Boots

Your boots must be comfortable for both riding and walking. When you stop for a bite to eat, you will take off your helmet and gloves, but your boots stay on. They are there for protection and casual walking.

Wear these boots around before going on a tour. Walk them in! Some ladies prefer long boots, some shorter, some with zips, and some with strap-overs, so this is a very personal buy. Have a look at the selection on Amazon and see which pair you would prefer.

Pants

Pants should always be a little bit longer so that when you are sitting on your motorcycle, they do not creep up. No one plans to have an accident, but you need to protect your legs and body if one does occur. Alpinestars Women’s Banshee Leggings are very comfortable, especially over the tummy. It is a stretch fabric and the stretch accordion on the knee area increases the comfort when you are sitting on the bike. To assist you to be more visible to other road users, there are reflective prints on the inner side of the lower leg. For high levels of abrasion resistance, there is a full aramidic fiber lining.

Jacket

Motorcycle jackets offer protection against the sun, rain (good to get a waterproof one), bugs, cow dung, dust, and wind, and protect your body against an accident. Make sure it has extra protection in the areas needed such as elbows and shoulders. The jacket must also keep you warm, especially on cold days or early hours when you venture out.

Interview with Jackie Ludick (a grandma), the President of the Ulysses Motorcycle Club West Rand South Africa

Stephen Dearnley, a former British gentleman, who moved to Australia in 1947, wanted to encourage the older generation who had just gone through the second world war, to get out there and relish life once again. The social club is for 40-year-olds and over, who are motorcycle enthusiasts and who have a motorcycle. This movement, Ulysses has grown and there are clubs all over Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

The interview took place at Puzey’s Bikers Warehouse, in Northriding, Johannesburg, South Africa

I met with Jackie, an amazingly inspiring woman, who has been riding motorcycles for years. What I really appreciated about her, was her humanness. She is not swollen-headed or self-important, but rides and talks with true love and are very proud of what others have done in the motorcycle community.

Jackie kindly posed for a photograph (below) on the motorcycle she recommended. She discussed how they had to raise substantial funds before they were allowed to go to the cancer rally. She spoke of disabled women, who with their disabilities have moved forward with gusto and ridden their bikes into a world of adventure. Hopefully, in the future, I get to meet some of these phenomenal women.

What motorcycle would you suggest for a first-time woman touring rider? Honda NC 750/DCT ( the picture above is of Jackie on the motorcycle. Jackie is tall and personally rides a Kawasaki 1400, but on this one, I can reach the ground – me being 5ft 2inches)

Why would you suggest the Honda NC 750/DCT? Light to handle. Easy in traffic. Economical on fuel. Lower seat height. Larger integrated storage area.

What is the displacement (cc)? 750

Transmission? 6 speed.

Riding position? Comfortable and unright. Perfect for long-distance riding.

Can I as a shorter woman reach the ground when sitting on this Honda? Yes and the bike does not feel heavy.

Can the seat be lowered? No.

How often does the motorcycle need to come in for a service? Every 15 000 km.

What are the colours that this motorcycle comes in? Black and silver.

Is the motorcycle a standard touring bike or a sport-touring bike? Touring and commuter. Perfect for both.

What is the difference between the two? The big difference is the seating position. On a sports bike, you have to lean forward while on the touring/adventure bike you sit more upright. This is better for your back for long distances.

What license do I need to take to be able to ride this motorcycle? 250cc and up.

Tips to take note of on your First Motorcycle trip

• Carry a spare key for the bike and extra keys for your luggage carriers
• Leave early from the city to avoid heavy traffic
• Make up envelopes for each day’s itinerary so you do not have to scrounge in your luggage for details
• Get a backpack hydration system. This allows you to drink while you drive so you do not get dehydrated
• Sign up for roadside assistance before you leave
• Allow for time to rest often or when you start to get drowsy
• Purchase some earplugs to help drown out the sound of the wind
• As a beginner don’t over plan your daily mileage. Be kind to yourself
• Riding in the sun can be exhausting and dangerous for a long period of time
• Always take note of where you are in case you need to call for help and you have to explain your location
• Carry snacks to eat that are easily accessible so that when you stop you can regain your energy
• Your snacks and liquids should be disposable so you can throw these away (in a dustbin) after consuming them
• Be prepared for a change of weather such as rain or if it gets very hot
• Before leaving make up a packing list. Include a simple medical aid kit. Riding with a headache is not pleasant
• Carry a tire-plug kit with a small pump or CO2 tire inflation system
• Make sure you have downloaded a GPS app on your phone and that you have a phone holder. Amazon has a great selection

THE DREAM THAT MANY WILL NOT UNDERSTAND: I bought a BIKE as a personal dream. One day when I am very old and when I can not walk anymore, it will be in my garage as a trophy of my memories. I met people who taught me something and have the same spirit. I met others that I’m glad I forgot. I got wet, I felt cold, And I felt warm, I was afraid, I fell, And I stood up, I even hurt myself, But also, I laughed out loud inside the helmet. I spoke a thousand times with myself. I sang and shouted with joy like a madman, And yes … sometimes I cried. I have seen wonderful places and lived unforgettable experiences. I often made curves that even Marc Marquez would be proud of; other times I made curves full of terror. I stopped a thousand times to see a landscape. I spoke with perfect strangers, and I forgot the people I see every day. I went out with my demons inside and returned home with a feeling of absolute peace in my heart. I always thought about how dangerous it is, knowing that the meaning of courage is to advance even feeling fear. Every time I go up to my machine I think about how wonderful it is. I stopped talking to those who do not understand, (they just do not understand) and I learned through gestures to communicate with other riders. I spent money that I did not have, giving up many things, but all these things are not worth even a moment with my BIKE It is not a means of transport or a piece of iron with wheels, it is the lost part of my soul and my spirit. And when someone says to me: “You have to sell the BIKE and you have to be a more serious person”, … I do not answer. I just shake my head and smile. talking about BIKES….. only the person who loves them understands it. Lucky I do. And the adventure continues.

Would you like to ride motorcycles as you retire or maybe you already do? Please share your ideas or experiences with us in the comments section below.