Hoagy's Heroes Tips...

Know your own physical and riding limits.

If you've never done any long distance riding, you may want to do a "mini" long distance ride or two as a warm up.

Be sure your motorcycle is in good working condition - especially the tires.
Have a qualified mechanic check / service your bike before the ride.

Be completely familiar with the operation of your motorcycle.

Before you start the ride, you should know: how many gallons of fuel the tank will hold; how many miles per gallon (MPG) it gets on the highway; and therefore how many miles per tank your motorcycle gets on the highway.

If you choose to ride with a group, we recommend that you limit the size of the group to 6 or less bikes.
Limiting the size of the group will reduce the time necessary to refuel and take breaks.

Ride with people who have similar riding preferences to your own.
Riding a 1,000 miles is long enough without the frustration of riding with someone who's riding preferences (eg, riding speed, number, length, and frequency of stops, etc.) are radically different than your own.

Don't ride faster than your guardian angel can fly.
Long-distance riding is more about steady, consistent riding rather than high speeds.

If available, use a credit card / debit card.
and pay at the pump instead of taking time to go inside (and possibly have to wait in line) to pay for your fuel.

Each rider should secure a receipt at each gas stop.

Get a sufficient amount of sleep before the ride.

Eat healthy foods before and during the ride.

Keep yourself hydrated with water and healthy drinks throughout the ride.

Don't rely on caffeine and other stimulants to get you through the ride.

Do not use any illegal drugs or consume alcohol just prior to or during the ride.
A long-distance ride is challenging enough without being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Learn how to avoid boredom and sleepiness while you ride.
Listening to music, talking with a passenger or other riders (via CB radios and intercoms), viewing the scenery, and consuming energy food, snacks, and drinks can help you complete the ride safely.

Don't waste time shopping for all of your food and drinks while you're on the ride.
If possible, buy at least a portion of the food and drinks that you plan to consume during the ride in advance instead of taking time to select them and waiting to pay for them during your stops.

Bring personal items.
such as sunscreen, skin lotions, lip balm, contact lens cleaner, eye lubricant, oral hygiene products, prescription and/or over-the-counter medications (but be sure to be familiar with any potential side affects of any medications that you take).

Carry a cell phone and be sure the battery is sufficiently charged before the ride.

Maintain a positive mental attitude.
Assuming your bike and your body are capable of completing a long-distance ride, the only thing standing between you and completing the ride is your attitude / outlook.

Wear layers of clothes.
Even in late June, temperatures and weather conditions will vary throughout the ride. Layering will provide warmth and protection while making it efficient to add or remove clothing as needed.

Always wear your riding safety gear, including:
helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, riding pants / jacket, leather, etc.

Bring your rain gear.
We hope we won't need it, but would hate to need it and not have it.

Carry a tool kit, flashlight, tape, and other things that you may need in case of a breakdown.

Always carry proper identification.
Information about special medical conditions and emergency contact information in the event medical assistance may be required.