On long motorcycle trips, fatigue comes from a multitude of sources. Prolonged fatigue over the course of several days reduces alertness and control, which makes accident avoidance more difficult. Fatigue has even caused some riders to fall asleep on their bikes. Combating this fatigue involves physical conditioning, as well as using the right equipment.

Physical Conditioning

Long trips on a motorcycle require the use of your riding muscles for ten or more hours per day. To get these muscles in shape, you should "build up" to your trip by taking shorter rides of three or more hours on the weekends before your trip. It also helps to ride your motorcycle every day if possible. On the first few days of your trip, take frequent breaks and keep your daily distances short. As your body adapts, you will need fewer breaks and will be able to ride longer distances during the day.

Protecting Yourself from the Wind

Your bike should have a windshield that is effective at keeping the wind off your face. You should also wear a helmet with a face visor as well. The pressure of the wind tearing at your face isn't the only source of fatigue. Wind noise as well as exhaust noise can also fatigue you after long hours of riding. This noise is diminished by the use of a windshield and a full helmet.

Reducing Hand Fatigue

Chronic exposure to vibration causes hand fatigue, as well as the possibility of nerve damage. Wear well-padded gloves, such as gel gloves. Keep your wrists in a neutral position and don't grip the bars any tighter than necessary. Also, use soft foam grips and a wrist rest.

Don't use high handlebars. In addition to hand fatigue, high handlebars also force you to lift up your shoulders which can cause burning and tiredness in your shoulders.

Getting Exercise During Your Rests

During a rest break, stretch your legs by walking around. Shake your hands out and stretch them. Clenching and unclenching them will also help. Shrug your shoulders and turn and tilt your head from side to side.

Taking Care of Your Body

This means getting plenty of sleep at night and drinking enough water to avoid dehydration. Eat frequent small meals. Big meals loaded with carbohydrates, fats and sugars divert too much of the body's energy into digestion. This leaves you feeling drowsy and tired.

A long motorcycle trip is an adventure that is best enjoyed by keeping fatigue down to a minimum. Follow the above tips, ride smart and have fun.