Make Time for Break Time

Riding a motorcycle is much more fatiguing than driving a car. On top of that, you typically get sore muscles during the first few days of a long trip, particularly when most of your previous riding has been on weekend day trips.

Environmental factors, too, can diminish a rider’s stamina. Hot or cold weather, high humidity, wind noise, rain, strong crosswinds, reduced visibility, the high level of mental concentration required to ride safely, and road conditions can all take their toll on a motorcyclist. 

On this last count, mountain riding with lots of curves and elevation changes is inherently more physically and mentally demanding than riding across level terrain.

When leading a group of riders, it’s important to remember their needs as well as your own. I’m sometimes guilty of getting into an enjoyable riding rhythm and losing track of time and the physical needs of my companions. 

Whether you’re riding alone or in a group, here are some rules of thumb about taking breaks:

• Stop every one to two hours, depending on the riding conditions.
• Walk around and stretch muscles to relieve or prevent aching.
• Hydrate with non-caffeinated drinks that replenish electrolytes like sugar-free sports drinks, especially in hot weather.
• Talk with your fellow riders to gauge their level of fatigue and to relieve riding stress.
• In hot weather, stop to sit under shade, sip a cold drink, and/or visit an air-conditioned building to keep yourself cool.
• In cold weather, make stops at warm places and drink hot liquids.
• If overcome by sleepiness, take a catnap in a safe location.

Under serious conditions, like severe weather, flooding, or excessive heat or cold, it may be advisable to seek shelter and wait out the threat. It makes little sense to push yourself to a point where the ride is no longer enjoyable. It also may be dangerous. 

Remember, it’s better to take too many breaks than too few.