Are you dreaming of hitting the open road on your motorcycle for an unforgettable adventure? A motorcycle road trip is the perfect way to explore new places, meet new people, and experience the thrill of the ride. But before you set off, there are a few things you need to know to make your journey a success.
In this guide, we'll show you how to plan the ultimate motorcycle road trip, from the best routes to the gear you need to pack. Hopefully, whether you’re planning a ride with friends, or if you’re planning on going solo, you’ll be ready for the best adventure yet!
No road trip is complete without a great route, and when it comes to motorcycle road trips, there are plenty of amazing options. Whether you're looking for scenic views, twisty roads, or historic landmarks, there's a route out there that's perfect for you.
Here are some of the best motorcycle routes near Henderson Harley-Davidson:
1. Lake Mead Loop: Start your ride from Henderson Harley-Davidson and head east on Lake Mead Parkway. This scenic loop takes you around Lake Mead, offering breathtaking views of the lake, desert landscapes, and the iconic Hoover Dam. Enjoy the winding roads and the opportunity to stop at scenic viewpoints or have a picnic along the way.
2. Valley of Fire State Park: Valley of Fire State Park is located approximately 50 miles northeast of Henderson. From Henderson Harley-Davidson, take U.S. Route 93 north and then follow the signs to Valley of Fire State Park. This route takes you through stunning red rock formations, unique desert scenery, and offers the chance to explore the park's hiking trails and viewpoints.
3. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Red Rock Canyon is located approximately 17 miles west of Henderson. From Henderson Harley-Davidson, head west on West Charleston Boulevard. This scenic ride takes you through Red Rock Canyon, where you can admire the towering red sandstone cliffs, enjoy scenic drives, and even take a break for a hike or picnic in this natural wonderland.
4. Mount Charleston: Mount Charleston is a popular destination for a scenic ride and a respite from the desert heat. From Henderson Harley-Davidson, take Interstate 215 West and then exit onto State Route 157 (Kyle Canyon Road). This route takes you up into the Spring Mountains, where you can enjoy cooler temperatures, lush forests, and picturesque views from the mountain's peak.
5. Hoover Dam Loop: The Hoover Dam Loop offers a combination of stunning desert landscapes and the iconic Hoover Dam. From Henderson Harley-Davidson, take U.S. Route 93 south and continue across the Hoover Dam. Enjoy the views of the dam and Lake Mead, and then continue the loop by taking the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge (Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge). This ride offers scenic views and the chance to see this remarkable feat of engineering.
These motorcycle routes near Henderson Harley-Davidson provide a variety of scenic landscapes, from desert vistas to mountainous terrain. As always, check road conditions, weather, and any specific regulations or closures before embarking on your ride. Enjoy the open road and the natural beauty of the Southwest!
When you're on a motorcycle road trip, packing efficiently is crucial. You don't want to be weighed down by unnecessary gear or risk forgetting something important. Here's a packing list to get you started:
Remember to be prepared for all types of weather. Layers provide the best range of options, for example, short-sleeve shirt + long-sleeve or moisture-wicking shirt + sweatshirt + light jacket + heavy leather jacket. Layer up as it cools down or remove layers when it heats up. Pack rain gear and check the forecast before you leave. When it comes to gear that makes a difference, a comfortable and supportive seat, a windshield or fairing, and a Bluetooth communicator can all enhance your riding experience.
You know the gear you want to bring - but how much do you pack and where are you going to put it on your bike? Here are some tips for making the most of your limited space.
Once you’ve packed your gear, you’ll want to make sure you have your bike's tools and accessories for the road.
Before you hit the road, it's important to ensure your bike is in top condition. Here's a checklist of bike adjustments and key service items you should take care of:
In addition to these service items, you should also bring along a tool kit that includes essential tools and spare parts, such as a tire repair kit, spark plugs, fuses, and ZIP TIES.
It’s important to think through HOW and WHERE you are going to carry all of this gear on your motorcycle. Also how comfortable you want to be. Touring-style motorcycles come equipped with a fairing/windshield/saddlebags - but any motorcycle can be modified for long-haul road tripping. Here are some things to think about depending on the type of motorcycle you ride:
If you have any questions about service or parts that you need to get ready for your trip, schedule an appointment with our service department.
America's national parks are some of the most stunning and iconic natural landscapes in the world, and a motorcycle road trip is the perfect way to explore them. Here are the 3 National Parks worth visiting from Henderson Harley-Davidson:
Joshua Tree National Park: Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southern California, approximately 3 hours west of Henderson. Known for its unique Joshua trees and stunning desert landscapes, the park offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and exploring its diverse ecosystems.
Death Valley National Park: Situated about 2 hours northwest of Henderson, Death Valley National Park spans across the California-Nevada border. It is a vast desert park known for its extreme temperatures, salt flats, sand dunes, and rugged mountain ranges. Visitors can marvel at the otherworldly landscapes, enjoy scenic drives, and explore hiking trails.
Grand Canyon National Park: While not as close as the other two parks, Grand Canyon National Park is within a reasonable distance from Henderson, located approximately 4 hours east of the city. It is one of the world's most famous natural wonders, showcasing the breathtaking grandeur of the Colorado River-carved canyon. Visitors can take in panoramic views, hike the rim trails, and experience the park's incredible geological features.
Once you’ve got your destination picked out, here are some tips for visiting national parks on your motorcycle road trip:
Some of the most popular national parks to visit on a motorcycle road trip include Yosemite, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Zion. When planning your trip, be sure to check park regulations and closures, as well as any required permits for camping or backcountry travel.
Motorcycle camping has become a popular way to travel across the country on two wheels. Although its historic roots go way back, moto camping has evolved over the years and there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
If you plan on camping on your motorcycle road trip, there are a few things you should consider. First, make sure you have the right gear, including a lightweight and compact tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. You may want/need a small camp stove and cooking utensils, as well as a water filter or purification tablets.
Here are some of our favorite items:
As for where to stay, there are many options for motorcycle camping, from established campgrounds to backcountry sites. KOA campgrounds are a popular choice, as they offer amenities like showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi. National park campgrounds are also a great option, as they often have stunning views and easy access to hiking trails.
If you decide to go this route, it’s a lot of fun with friends, but can still be an awesome adventure solo. There are many inspirational people out there on YouTube sharing their adventures and their tips and tricks for solo travel.
Check out these moto bloggers for some inspiration:
No road trip is complete without a great playlist, and a motorcycle road trip is no exception. Here are some playlists we love for the open road:
Of course, everyone's taste in music is different, so don't be afraid to ask your community for their favorite riding tunes. Planning a ride with your friends? Create a shared playlist for everyone to build out prior to leaving. It’s a good way to get hyped for your upcoming trip AND discover new music to ride to!
If you're looking for a way to connect with other riders and experience the thrill of a motorcycle rally, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the must-attend events for riders in 2023:
- Daytona Bike Week, Daytona Beach, Florida
- Harley-Davidson Homecoming™ Festival, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Sturgis, South Dakota
- Laconia Motorcycle Week, Laconia, New Hampshire
- Bikes, Blues and BBQ, Rogers, Arkansas
Be sure to check with Henderson Harley-Davidson for more information about more localized dealership events and local rallies in your area. These events are a perfect time to link up with friends and plan rides to and from the event.
Before we wrap up, here are a few additional tips to help you make the most of your motorcycle road trip:
By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be able to enjoy the freedom and exhilaration of a motorcycle road trip without any unnecessary stress or complications.
A motorcycle road trip is an experience unlike any other, offering the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and push your limits as a rider. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make your next motorcycle road trip a success and create memories that will last a lifetime. So get out there and hit the open road – the adventure awaits!