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When you set out on a long motorbike tour, it is important to prepare your bike properly. Good preparation can help ensure that the tour is safe and stress-free and that you get the most out of your trip along the way. In this article, we show you the steps you need to take to prepare your motorbike for a long tour.

1. Check your tyre pressure and tyre tread depth A good starting point for preparing for a long motorbike tour is to check your tyre pressure and tyre tread depth. Both are important factors for the safety of your ride. The correct tyre pressure ensures that the motorbike remains stable on the road, while sufficient tyre tread depth ensures sufficient grip on wet or dry roads.
2. Check your brakes and fluids Another important component for safety on the road are the brakes. Check your motorbike’s brake pads, brake fluid and brake lines and replace them if necessary. Also check the oil level, the coolant and transmission oil and the coolant and top them up if necessary. Poor braking performance or low fluid levels can be dangerous in the long run.
3. Clean your bike A clean bike not only looks better, but can also help prevent damage to the paintwork or metal parts. Check the bike for damage and clean it thoroughly before you go on tour. A clean machine is easier to inspect if you notice minor problems along the way.
4. Check your equipment In addition to preparing the motorbike, you should also check your personal equipment. Check that your helmet and protective clothing are in good condition and that they are comfortable and fit well. If you are going on long tours, you should also remember to pack extra clothing such as a rain jacket or gloves.
5. Plan your route and prepare your documents It is important to plan in advance which route you will take. Check the route conditions and possible alternative routes in case you encounter obstacles or road works. Make sure you have all the necessary documents with you, such as your driving licence, registration papers, proof of insurance and any visas.
6. Pack your rack properly If you are going on long tours, you will most likely be taking luggage with you. It is important to stow your luggage properly so that it stays safely on your motorbike and does not interfere with your ride. A good way to keep your luggage safe is to use special racks and panniers. These not only provide extra space for your belongings, but also additional safety for you and your bike.

7. Pack smart Another important consideration is what you want to take on your tour. Pack only the essentials and try to save space by rolling up or vacuum packing clothes and other items. Make sure that the weight is evenly distributed and that you do not place any objects that are too heavy on one side of the motorbike, as this can affect the balance.
8. Check your electronics Many modern motorbikes have electronic systems such as navigation systems, music players or communication devices. Check that these systems are working properly and that you have enough power to run them during your tour. It’s also a good idea to take a charger or powerbank with you in case you need to charge your mobile phone or other electronic devices on the road.
9. Take an emergency kit Even if you hope you will never need it, it is important to have an emergency kit with you. An emergency kit may include a first aid kit, a tyre repair kit or a toolbox. If you are going on long trips, it is also a good idea to take a GPS emergency device with you, which will enable you to call for help in an emergency.
10. Finally, it is important to be rested and relaxed before you start your tour. Make sure you have had enough sleep and that you rest your body and mind sufficiently before the tour. A long motorbike ride can be exhausting, so make sure you are in good physical condition and prepared.

Conclusion: When preparing your motorbike for long tours, you should pay attention to many factors to ensure your safety and comfort on the road. From checking tyres and brakes to the correct placement of luggage on the bike, there are many important considerations to take into account. Careful planning and preparation will help you to fully enjoy your tour.

Here are the sources and links to the various points in the text:

1. Checking the motorbike:

• “How to Check Your Motorcycle Before Riding” von RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/how-to-check-your-motorcycle-before-riding

2. Checking the tyres:

• “Motorcycle Tire Maintenance 101” von Motorcycle Cruiser: https://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/motorcycle-tire-maintenance-101/

3. Checking the brakes:

• “Motorcycle Brake Maintenance and Inspection” von Cruiser Customizing: https://www.cruisercustomizing.com/motorcycle-brake-maintenance-and-inspection

4. Use of the correct engine oil:

• “How to Choose the Right Oil for Your Motorcycle” von Cycle World: https://www.cycleworld.com/story/how-to-choose-the-right-oil-for-your-motorcycle/

5. Checking the chain:

• “How to Check and Adjust Your Motorcycle Chain” von RevZilla: https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/how-to-check-and-adjust-your-motorcycle-chain

6. Placement of the luggage:

• “How to Pack for a Motorcycle Trip” von REI Co-op: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/motorcycle-touring-tips.html

8. Checking the electronics:

• “Motorcycle Electronics Maintenance” von Motorcycle Cruiser: https://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/motorcycle-electronics-maintenance/

9. Emergency equipment:

• “Motorcycle Emergency Kit Essentials” von Motorcycle Cruiser: https://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/motorcycle-emergency-kit-essentials/