Complete Guide to Motorcycle Touring in the UK

The engine's roar, the cool breeze, and the open road are all reasons to go motorcycle touring. Motorcycle touring in the UK is an exhilarating way to explore the region's rich landscape and history. However, if you're not fully prepared, all the tempting elements can hinder your enjoyment.

So, here's our complete motorcycle touring guide for beginners, which will help you start a motorcycle adventure in the UK. We also highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator, a combination of Jackery Solar Panels with a Portable Power Station, as the best motorcycle touring companion for powering your essential electronics.  

Why Do So Many People Do Motorcycle Touring in the UK? 

Most people enjoy motorcycle touring for the ultimate freedom experience, while some may regard it as a self-challenging lifestyle. With the improvement of motorcycle safety technology (such as ABS systems and smart helmets), motorcycle touring will reach a wider audience.

There are several reasons why many people love motorcycle touring:

High Sense of Freedom

Riders can flexibly choose their motorcycle touring route, travel through city streets or country roads, avoid traffic jams, and reach places that are challenging to reach by car. In addition, motorcycles can stop at any time to enjoy the scenery or explore small towns along the way without being restricted by fixed itineraries. Therefore, motorcycle touring provides a high degree of freedom.

Economical

Unlike self-driving cars, motorcycles have low fuel consumption and maintenance costs, making them suitable for people with limited budgets or those pursuing lightweight travel. In addition, motorcycles are easy to park, and there is no need to worry about finding parking spaces or paying high parking fees, especially for short trips around the city.

Great Sense of Achievement

Motorcycle touring often has a certain sense of adventure. For example, riders usually face various road conditions and weather changes. However, the challenge and uncertainty of motorcycle touring attract many adventurous people. For example, the sense of achievement gained after overcoming complex road conditions (such as mountain roads and bad weather) has become the core motivation for some riders.

How to Pack Items for Motorcycle Touring? 

A motorcycle can take you anywhere, including the coast, mountains, and deserts. Packing for a caravan holiday or camping trip is challenging enough. Still, when you need to put all your belongings on a motorcycle, things will become ten times more complicated. Therefore, whether planning a short or long motorcycle tour, you need to pack the essentials most efficiently.

The Ultimate Checklist for Motorcycle Touring

Every motorcycle tour is unique, so people pack differently according to their needs. The following list of items required for motorcycle touring has nothing to do with gender, length of trip, journey difficulty, whether it is cross-border, or general weather conditions in the area. It is based on the most basic needs of people in motorcycle touring.

Here is a more comprehensive packing list for motorcycle touring:

Packing Tips When Packing for Motorcycle Touring

Here are some practical packing tips when packing for motorcycle touring:

Tip 1: Bring Only the Essentials

Motorcycle touring requires limited storage space, so packing must be streamlined. Navigation equipment and portable power supplies must be carried to ensure a clear route.

Tip 2: Layered Packing

When packing, please place commonly used items, such as maps, in easy-to-reach locations. Infrequently used items, such as multi-function knives, can be placed on the bottom or in hard-to-reach locations. In addition, please evenly distribute the heavy objects at the bottom of the side boxes on both sides.

Tip 3: Secure the Luggage

Before departure, please use a professional motorcycle luggage rack or strap system (such as a pannier, tail box, or side box) to fix the luggage firmly. While fixing it, you must ensure the luggage does not block key components such as taillights and turn signals.

What Should You Wear During Motorcycle Touring? 

When doing motorcycle touring in the UK, high-quality motorcycle riding equipment can help you adapt to the changing riding environment in the UK. The following is the recommended clothing for motorcycle touring:

Motorcycle Jacket

Motorcycle jackets are usually waterproof and windproof, effectively protecting against bad weather and keeping body temperature stable. For example, professional motorcycle jackets use sealed seams and waterproof coatings to avoid the risk of hypothermia due to wet and cold during riding.

Motorcycle Pants

Professional motorcycle pants can effectively reduce the risk of skin damage. For example, motorcycle pants are usually made of wear-resistant materials (such as Kevlar fibre or leather), with built-in cushioning layers such as knee pads and hip pads, which can reduce abrasions and impact injuries in an accidental fall.

Boots

Professional riding boots are anti-slip, wear-resistant and waterproof, ensuring that the ankles and feet are warm while avoiding serious injuries in accidents. Ordinary casual boots are difficult to replace the protective functions of professional riding boots (such as built-in steel toe and impact layer).

Helmet

Motorcycle touring must wear a helmet that meets safety standards, preferably a full-face helmet. The helmet you choose must meet European standards (such as ECE 22.05) or British standards (such as BS 6658:1985). British government data shows that the death rate of motorcycle accidents without helmets is more than 3 times that of those wearing them.

Gloves

In motorcycle touring, riding gloves (such as those equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane) can prevent numbness or loss of control caused by wet and cold hands and reduce the risk of hand abrasions when falling. Please choose waterproof or warm types according to the season and prioritise purchasing professional riding gloves certified by ABR.

Auxiliary Equipment

In addition to wearing the above essential riding equipment, you should consider whether you need additional functional equipment.

• Knee pads

• Elbow pads

• Windproof mask

• Goggles

• Scarf

• Reflective strips or reflective vests

• Spare clothes

Top 10 Motorcycle Touring Routes in the UK 

Although most motorcycle enthusiasts have ridden around the world, most still believe that the United Kingdom is one of the best places for motorcycle touring. Here are the six best routes in the United Kingdom: generally scenic, unobstructed, and challenging.

The North Coast 500

Distance: 516 miles

Start: Inverness

End: Inverness

Website: The North Coast 500

The North Coast 500, often called the Route 66 of Scotland, covers almost all the best parts of Scotland's northern coastline. It offers stunning coastal scenery, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, and remote fishing villages. The traffic on The North Coast 500 is heavy in the middle of summer, making it difficult to get a good experience. April, May, September, and October may be more suitable for motorcycle touring because the roads are quieter and there are fewer mosquitoes.

The North East 250

Distance: 250 miles

Start: Glenshee

End: Glenshee

Website: The North East 250

The North East 250 is a 250-mile circular road around the northeast of Scotland. Along the North East 250, you can see the magnificent castles of Royal Deeside, the granite city of Aberdeen, the iconic whisky distilleries of Speyside, the rugged North Sea coastline in the east, and the picturesque seaside villages on the Moray Firth coast.

East Coast Discovery Route

Distance: 180 miles

Start: Skegness

End: Whitby

If you choose the East Coast Discovery Route for motorcycle touring, you can experience the charm of the East Coast seaside resorts and enjoy the beautiful Yorkshire moors. Although it is a lovely route for motorcycle touring, it has some challenging spiral bends and hidden descents.

Making for the Highlands

Distance: 135 miles

Start: Crocketford

End: Inveraray

If you want to explore the Scottish Highlands without taking the crowded motorcycle touring routes, then "Making for the Highlands" is your best choice. Making for the Highlands will take you from the Scottish Borders to Inveraray in the Scottish Highlands. In addition, several hotels along the way provide quality dining and accommodation for you to rest.

To A Yorkshireman's Wedding

Distance: 132 miles

Start: Gretna

End: Aberystwyth

To A Yorkshireman's Wedding strikes most cyclists as a challenging ride with stunning views. This 132-mile motorcycle tour takes you from Skipton through the stunning Yorkshire countryside. While it can be a wild route, it offers spectacular views of the moors.

The Welsh Valley Retreat

Distance: 100 miles

Start: Chepstow

End: Aberystwyth

Most people spend a day completing The Welsh Valley Retreat. Along this scenic route, The Welsh Valley Retreat, you'll see the spectacular Brecon Beacons, lush green valleys and the tranquil west coast. Before entering Layard, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the copper mine ruins and stunning views of the valley. You can stop at cafes and bars if you want to rest up.

Plodding Through the Peak District

Distance: 80 miles

Start: Matlock

End: Hebden Bridge

The Peak District is busy anytime, so ploughing through it is a wild choice. This 80-mile motorcycle touring route avoids the extremely popular areas for cyclists, such as Cat and Fiddle and Snake Pass, providing a more scenic experience.

The Antrim Coast Road

Distance: 60 miles

Start: Larne

End: Portrush

Website: The Antrim Coast Road

The Antrim Coast Road is part of the A2 Coastal Road and is now a scenic motorcycle touring route. It is also the venue for the NW200 event. Along this famous motorcycle touring route, you can enjoy the picturesque coastline of County Antrim and the stunning coastal scenery of the Kintyre Peninsula. People usually choose to start from Larne to Portrush, but you can also go the other way.

Snake Pass Loop

Distance: 41 miles

Start: Glossop

End: Glossop

Snake Pass Loop is a relatively short motorcycle touring route in central England. Along the Snake Pass Loop, you will pass through sections without tree cover and enjoy the magnificent views of the green countryside.

Cat and Fiddle Road

Distance: 12.5 miles

Start: Buxton

End: Macclesfield

Website: Cat and Fiddle Road

The Cat and Fiddle Road crosses the heart of the Peak District. It is popular with motorcycle driving enthusiasts because of its many curves and challenging roads. The strict speed limit along the Cat and Fiddle Road allows motorcyclists to enjoy the fantastic scenery.

Jackery Solar Generators for Motorcycle Touring

Motorcycle touring often involves camping or staying in locations without reliable access to electrical outlets. A solar generator provides a self-sufficient power source, crucial for charging essential devices like smartphones, GPS units, cameras, and even small appliances.

Maintaining communication is vital for safety, especially in remote areas. A solar generator ensures you can keep your phone and communication devices charged. We highly recommend the Jackery Solar Generator for powering essential appliances and electronics with solar energy.       

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Jackery Solar Generator 500

The Jackery Solar Generator 500 integrates the Explorer 500 portable power station with the SolarSaga 100W solar panel, providing a comprehensive solar energy solution. The system converts solar energy via solar panels into electrical power, which is stored in a portable power station for future use. This solar generator is a dependable and environmentally friendly power source for camping, RVs, and motorcycle touring. The Solar Generator 500 will be introduced by its components individually.

Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station

With 518Wh capacity, it also includes three USB ports, an AC outlet, and a 12V car output. It converts solar energy to deliver stable pure sine wave power suitable for mainstream electronics and small appliances, including lamps, laptops, phones, refrigerators, CPAP machines, and other devices.

The portable power station includes three USB ports, a 12V car output, and an AC outlet, ensuring a stable power supply for various appliances. It can be charged through three distinct methods: solar panels, a car outlet, and an AC adapter.

The Explorer 500's emissions-free energy source and dependable battery management system make it safe for indoor applications. The solar system is constructed from durable materials and is resistant to high temperatures. The operating temperature range for the Explorer 500 power station is 14-104°F (-10-40°C).

SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel

In contrast to conventional gas generators, a silent home generator does not disrupt sleep. The Solar Generator 500 operates at a noise level of less than 37.9 dB, making it ideal for camping or recreational vehicles and a valuable investment in outdoor living.

Foldable solar panels exhibit dustproof and waterproof characteristics, making them suitable for cold and humid environmental conditions. Their high-temperature resistance enables the use of solar energy under extreme heat conditions. The operational temperature range for the SolarSaga 100W solar panel is 14-149°F (-10-65°C).

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus

The Solar Generator 300 Plus bundle represents an integrated solution for energy storage and solar panels, with a total weight of 5 kg, thus classified as ultra-lightweight. The 40W pad-sized solar panels effectively harness solar energy with increased ease. The compact, book-sized solar panel is designed for portability, featuring a foldable and lightweight structure, making it an ideal solar solution for various lifestyles.

Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station

The device features a 300W AC Pure Sine Wave Inverter with a surge peak of 600W and a capacity of 288Wh. The Explorer 300 Plus can charge up to four devices simultaneously, utilising one AC, USB-A, and USB-C output, facilitating efficient charging of multiple appliances. Furthermore, it is lightweight and sufficiently compact to accommodate a rucksack, enabling easy transport.

MPPT technology guarantees a solar charging efficiency of 99%. A complete wall charge requires 2 hours, while solar charging with a single SolarSaga 200W solar panel takes 4 hours. With the support of car charging, concerns regarding power outages will be alleviated.

The Explorer 300 Plus features a durable LFP (LiFePO4) battery, enhanced by a proprietary Battery Management System (BMS) that provides additional protection. The power station is engineered to withstand elevated temperatures, employing electrodeless ear lithium battery technology.

SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panel

The Jackery SolarSaga 40 Mini Solar Panel is a compact and efficient power solution designed for outdoor use. Weighing 2.6 pounds and featuring dual USB-A/C ports, this device suits various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Maintain connectivity and ensure power availability during your excursions with the Jackery SolarSaga 40 Mini Solar Panel.

Compact, lightweight, and designed for exploration, it weighs 2.6 pounds, is lighter than a laptop, and offers convenient portability. It includes two carabiners for portability and is sufficiently durable for various outdoor activities.

Safety Tips for Motorcycle Touring in the UK

Motorcycle touring is an exciting experience. However, riders face several challenges, including unpredictable weather and busy roads. Here are seven safety tips anyone should follow when touring a motorcycle.

Safety Tip 1: Be Prepared for the Weather

Before taking a motorcycle tour, check the forecast using weather services such as BBC Weather and the Met Office. If you encounter extreme weather conditions (such as severe storms or flood warnings), you should stop riding, choose a safe place to take shelter and prioritise personal safety.

Safety Tip 2: Pay Attention to Road Conditions

In addition to weather conditions, you should also pay close attention to road conditions during motorcycle touring. Some road sections may have potholes or loose gravel that can be fatal to motorcyclists. In addition, if you enter a narrow country road with many sharp bends, it is likely that your vision will be obstructed, so you need to reduce your speed and stay alert.

Safety Tip 3: Ride Defensively

Even if you are experienced, the importance of defensive driving cannot be underestimated. During motorcycle touring, please constantly watch the road ahead and rearview mirrors and anticipate potential dangers. In addition, try to keep other drivers able to see you and your motorcycle while maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.

Safety Tip 4: Regular Motorcycle Maintenance

Generally, a well-maintained motorcycle is more reliable, responsive, and less likely to break down.

In addition, before setting off for motorcycle touring, please check whether your motorcycle's tyres, brakes, lights, batteries, chains, etc., are working correctly.

Safety Tip 5: Take Regular Breaks

Motorcycle riding is more likely to cause physical fatigue than car riding, especially for the waist, back, and hand muscles. Regular breaks can help relieve muscle tension and relax the mental state. Generally, motorcycle drivers need to rest for at least 15 minutes after every two hours of driving. However, rest time and frequency should be flexibly adjusted according to personal physical fitness and weather conditions.

Do You Need to Buy Insurance for Motorcycle Touring?

Purchasing the right motorcycle touring insurance in advance means you will be covered for all motorcycle-related activities, no matter where you go during your motorcycle holiday. Therefore, travel insurance is essential for anyone planning a motorcycle touring trip.

Coverage of Motorcycle Touring Insurance

Depending on the motorcycle touring insurance policy you choose will determine what benefits you can enjoy. However, motorcycle touring insurance does not cover the bike's third-party liability (personal liability); it only covers the motorcyclist during motorcycle touring, including medical expenses (ambulance, hospital expenses, repatriation, etc.).

When choosing and purchasing motorcycle touring insurance, you should look for insurance that provides the following benefits:

• Emergency medical expenses

• Evacuation (including helicopter rescue if necessary) to the nearest hospital

• Loss of passport and other documents

• Lost or stolen luggage

• Cancellation or shortening of the trip

In addition, you can add the following additional coverages to your motorcycle touring.

• Pillion passengers

• Theft or damage to helmets, leathers, boots and gloves

• Theft or damage to bags, luggage and accessories

• Inability to use for a certain period

• Extended duration of motorcycle touring

What Motorcycle Touring Insurance Does Not Cover?

Most motorcycle touring policies (such as Navigator Silver, Pearl, Gold and Diamond) do not provide additional compensation for the following situations caused by motorcycle-related accidents:

• Accidental death

• Loss of limbs

• Loss of sight

• Disability

UK law says you need at least third-party insurance to go motorcycle touring. You can contact different insurance companies to further research motorcycle touring insurance policies and choose the most suitable insurance.

Motorcycle Touring FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about motorcycle touring in the UK:

1. When is the best time to go motorcycle touring in the UK?

The best time to go motorcycle touring in the UK is usually from late spring to early autumn.

2. What are the most popular motorcycle touring routes in the UK?

The UK has many beautiful motorcycle touring routes suitable for all skill levels. Among them, the most popular route for motorcycle riders is The North Coast 500 in Scotland.

3. Is motorcycle touring a group or a solo trip?

Most people consider whether to go motorcycle touring alone or with a partner. This decision depends on personal preference and practical circumstances. Motorcycle touring is freer when you go alone. You can plan your route and stop as you like. However, there is a lack of immediate assistance in emergencies, and loneliness may increase as the journey continues.

Riding in a group improves safety, and you can rely on each other during mechanical failures or accidents. However, a disagreement may affect the smoothness of the trip.

4. Do you need a driver's license when touring a motorcycle in the UK?

To tour the UK, you will need a valid motorcycle license. International motorcycle riders must determine in advance whether they need an international driving permit and their home country's motorcycle license.

Final Thoughts

In general, motorcycle touring combines elements such as freedom, adventure, economy, and social interaction, which can meet people's deep needs for exploration, challenge, and self-realisation. From the stunning rugged coastline to the rolling hills, the UK offers a range of motorcycle touring routes to meet the dreams of every motorcycle adventurer. Whether you are an experienced rider or a novice, you will feel great accomplishment and satisfaction after completing a motorcycle tour.