As every biker knows--staying alert is top priority. One of the leading causes of trouble for bikers is something that is actually pretty easy to deal with: riding fatigue.
1. Find at Least 3 Different Riding Positions
Find 3 riding positions that are comfortable on your bike. Maybe you have a classic 70s-80s banana seat, or maybe you have a little Corbin saddle...
Whatever the case may be, the next time you head out for a ride, adjust yourself every few miles, and find at least 3 ways of sitting that are comfortable for you (forward on the seat, on the rear edge, leaning back, etc.). So long as it doesn’t affect your ability to control your bike, you’ll be OK.
Then routinely switch it up. Every time you’re out for a long ride, don’t speed too much time in one position. It numbs your mind as well as your behind.
2. Biker Yoga!
No, I’m not suggesting that you stock up on incense and New Age hippie music.
Just do a few stretches to get your blood flowing whenevery you fuel up your motorcycle. Whenever you stop at a gas station, just do a couple of stretches, like there:
Toe Touches
Start by standing with your feet shoulder width apart. Bend down and touch your toes--keeping your knees locked (otherwise, you won’t stretch those cramped hamstrings...you’ll just squat). Be sure not to bend over or stand up too fast. Unless you like getting dizzy. :-) Do 5 or 10 slow hamstring stretches and you’ll be refreshed, and you’ll sit easier when you’re back in the saddle. (You don’t want your leg cramping up on the highway.)
Back Stretches
Your back feels every bump on the road, so be sure to give it a much-needed rest too. Put your hands on your hips and do the old twisty-twist. Not too rough though. Swivel back and forth--you’ll feel (maybe even hear) your back crack. Lean forward with your hands on your hips too, as you did with your toe touches, but when you do, just relax and hang. Let the tension in your lower back loosen. You may also hear a crack or two at this point. (I do sometimes.)
Staying alert is as much about stress relief (physical and mental) as anything else.
Keep the blood flowing on your road trips, and you’ll do just fine.
Ride safe!
