How Should You Ride a Touring Motorcycle? Find Out Now!
Touring bikes can be intimidating to some riders, especially full dressers. They reach weights close to 900 pounds. Follow these tips to feel more confident riding a touring motorcycle. Visit us at Chicago Harley-Davidson Wrigleyville in Chicago, Illinois, to browse our tourer motorcycles. We proudly serve all of Illinois.
Center of Gravity Changes
These bikes can be challenging to handle because the center of gravity changes when the weight distribution changes. Experienced riders will adjust automatically with more top weight, but beginner riders might have trouble with it. Ultimately, the rider must compensate for the shift in the center of gravity by feeling where it is while in motion.
Turning and stopping become more difficult because of the weight distribution, especially when you have a passenger on board with you. To counter this issue, you should try to store your heavier items towards the bottom of your saddlebags. Also, be cautious with more weight towards the top of the bike.
The suspension on touring bikes is meant to balance comfort and control. So, when hitting the rear brakes alone, the front tire may lose traction with the road and cause you to drop the bike, especially while turning. This is why you should use both brakes together to prevent this trouble while stopping and turning.
Power and The Feel of The Road
The purpose of a touring bike is to enjoy longer scenic rides. HD designed their touring bikes this way intentionally to prevent the risk of upsetting the chassis. As a result, the bike will be much more comfortable for the rider with fewer revs on long rides. Although, if you need to go quickly, you can drop a gear or two and get more power that way.
HD tourers are built for touring America but still can provide the speed you need when you need it. At first, you may be a little shaky in your confidence to control the bike, but it will become easier with practice. If you have experience riding street bikes, you can still treat the tourer the same way. Just remember to account for the weight you are transporting.
Of course, safety should be a top priority, so avoid getting distracted by the different features you have on your bike. As tempting as it may be, system tweaks can wait until you have stopped. After a few hours of riding, you will be able to ride your touring bike, even a full dresser, confidently. Feel free to stop by Chicago Harley-Davidson Wrigleyville in Chicago, Illinois, for all your riding needs. We serve all of Illinois.