Within the off-road biking domain, endurance racing is among the many disciplines celebrated worldwide, along with motocross, dual sport, moto trials and supermoto. But what is enduro? And what makes it different from other riding styles? As one of the oldest types of competitive motorcycling, enduro has developed throughout the years, becoming a perfect combination of skill, collaboration and unmatched terrains.
Our ultimate guide is designed to fill you in on all things enduro, from the different types of endurance racing to the best full-face enduro helmets. So, whether you’re looking for new enduro gear to update your biking wardrobe or are brand new to riding and need some entry-level tips, Bikers World is here to help.
What is motorcycle touring?
Motorcycle adventure touring trips consist of travelling at your own pace for several days or more. From one day to the next, you can choose whether you want to go on a short twenty-mile excursion or a long hundred-mile ride, visiting places that are hard to get to (or easy to miss!) if you choose to travel by car or plane
The adventure starts with planning the route of your motorcycle road trip, a feature that gives you the freedom to create a bespoke journey. This flexibility means you can choose to travel through small towns and cities, dramatic natural landscapes and quaint country villages, taking advantage of the freedom and mindfulness that comes with riding your own route at your own pace.
Part of the planning consists of working out what equipment you’ll need to take with you, where you’re going to stay, and which experiences you don’t want to miss along the route.
What are the different types of motorcycle touring?
Although there are many different ways to travel on a motorcycle, there are three main categories these types of journeys fall into: touring, adventure, and sport. As you might expect, the type of tour you want to go on will require a touring motorcycle capable of making that type of journey, as well as one that accommodates your needs around things like luggage and other essentials.
Touring Journeys
For long journeys, touring motorcycles are designed for long-distance trips and often take into account the need for more cargo and longer pauses between refuel stops. They are larger and heavier than other types of motorcycles, with powerful engines to help bear the extra weight.
Adventure Journeys
The last of these three categories, sport touring, is exactly what it sounds like: these trips are more about speed and distance than anything else. Bikes for this purpose are built to focus almost solely on speed and manoeuvring, and therefore have a low centre of gravity and a large fuel tank. They have large windshields and fairings and more ground clearance for better cornering.
Sport Journeys
If you’re on a long trip, you’ll want to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible, which is why it’s worth checking out other types of clothing and equipment before heading off on your tour. Base layers, such as those made by Alpinestars, can help regulate your body temperature in both winter and summer, keeping you comfortable in all kinds of weather. Making use of heated grips can likewise keep your hands warm whilst riding, and Oxford seat covers can increase your overall comfort.
What are the best motorcycle touring destinations in the UK?
The UK is home to many exceptional routes, some well-travelled and some less so. Not only are there plenty of destinations to consider, but there are even more ways to link them together, meaning you can travel all over the country in many different ways. That said, there are a few tried and tested routes worth considering if you’re getting out on a motorcycle tour for the first time.
The 500: Scottish Coast
This iconic route has over 500 miles of astonishing motorcycling, showcasing the very best the North Highlands has to offer. From lochs and glens to white sandy beaches and castles, the 500 leaves nothing out, with plenty of places along the way to relax, stop for a rest and treat yourself to some Caledonian hospitality.
North Devon Coast
This uninterrupted coastal run passes along the Bristol Channel and across the moorland of Exmoor National Park, heading down steep winding hills whilst giving you the chance to stop off at some quaint Devonshire villages.
East Coast Discovery
Heading across stunning Yorkshire moorland and some old English seaside resorts, routes along the East Coast can take you from Skegness to Whitby and everywhere in between. Alongside the market town of Helmsley, there’s plenty of great places for bikers to stop off, so be sure to do your research before you go.
What country is the most popular for motorcycle touring?
If you’re looking to head further afield, routes on mainland Europe are plenty, with Italy boasting journeys along the Amalfi Coast and through the Dolomites. As well as Italy, Spain is a popular choice for motorcycle road trips, with the N260 route through the Pyrenees being particularly special.
What gear should you take with you on your motorcycle tour?
If you want to take good care of yourself during motorcycle adventure touring trips, it’s essential you’ve got the right equipment, including the right jacket and the right boots, as well as gloves suited for long distances and variable weather. You’ll also want to pack lightweight, waterproof clothing in case of rain and a comfortable helmet, with the LS2, Shark, Nolan or HJC just a handful of many types to consider.
Accessories and gadgets
It’s also important to consider which electronics to take with you, including the right sat nav and GPS, as well as the right cables for keeping all your gadgets and gizmos charged whilst out on a particularly long ride. Phone mounts such as those made by Quadlock are also the type of add-on you’ll want to consider, as navigation is key when setting out on a journey over several days.
Storage
When it comes to storage, Oxford Luggage provides a wide range of backpacks and tank bags, as well as cargo nets and bungee straps to help you securely fasten your travelling equipment to your bike. Kappa tank lock systems are a particularly secure way of fastening luggage to your bike, giving you one less thing to think about when you’re cruising along a spectacular route.
Comfort
If you’re on a long trip, you’ll want to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible, which is why it’s worth checking out other types of clothing and equipment before heading off on your tour. Base layers, such as those made by Alpinestars, can help regulate your body temperature in both winter and summer, keeping you comfortable in all kinds of weather. Making use of heated grips can likewise keep your hands warm whilst riding, and Oxford seat covers can increase your overall comfort.
