• Do a thorough check-over of your motorcycle for its road-worthiness: tires in good condition and good pressure, chain adjusted and lubed, fluids – clutch, front and back brake reservoirs, antifreeze all topped up, oil and filter changed (for long trips), gauges, lights and indicators working, etc. See the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Pre-Ride Inspection sheet for the full checklist.
• Make sure you inform yourself of the motorcycle regulations in the states where you’ll be traveling. A good chart summing these up can be found here, or check out the AMA’s guide to state motorcycle laws.
• Consider purchasing a motorcycle-specific emergency roadside assistance plan such as with Motorcycle Towing Services.
• Check the weather report.
