Benefits of Joining Motorcycle Tour Rather Than Doing It Yourself
Safety and Backup Support
Joining an organised Explore Indochina motorcycle tour, especially when riding through hyper-remote areas like Mongolia, Laos, and the Himalayas, offers an excellent opportunity to ride without the stress of planning. The benefits are endless, making the experience enjoyable, safe, and enriching. While riding solo or with a small group of bikers can be rewarding and give a strong sense of freedom, the amount of time, planning, and effort it requires is great. Organised motorbike riding tours remove this burden, allowing riders to focus solely on enjoying the open road without worrying about logistics, safety, or navigating unfamiliar terrain.
Perhaps the most critical benefit of organised motorcycle riding is the emphasis on safety. In remote areas where medical facilities can be scarce, having a motorbike guide who knows the nearest hospitals and how to communicate with local doctors in case of an accident is invaluable. Organised motorcycle group rides provide backup support in emergencies, with staff trained in first aid and the ability to quickly access medical help. Solo riders might need help finding assistance in a remote location, especially if they don’t speak the language or know the area well.
Expert Decision-Making for a Smooth Ride
A key aspect of a successful motorcycle tour is the leader’s decision-making abilities. Whether navigating an unexpected roadblock, choosing an alternate route, or ensuring the group stays on schedule, the leader takes on the responsibility of making important decisions so you don’t have to. This level of organisation helps the motorcycle ride run smoothly, avoiding common headaches like getting lost, finding a place to eat, or booking last-minute accommodation. Instead, you can relax and enjoy the freedom of exploring on two wheels, knowing someone with experience has handled all the details.
Camaraderie and Shared Experience
Another often overlooked benefit of an organised motorbike tour is the camaraderie from riding with like-minded people. The motorbike leader, experienced in managing group rides, knows how to create a friendly and cooperative atmosphere, helping riders bond over shared experiences. This sense of community adds a social dimension to the trip, making the adventure about the ride and the lasting friendships you form with the other guys on the tour. Solo riders miss out on this unique group dynamic, which can often be one of the highlights of an organised motorcycle tour.
Local Knowledge and Cultural Insights
A significant advantage of organised motorcycle touring is having a local guide with expert knowledge of the region and the ability to communicate with local people. In remote areas, this expertise can transform the adventure, allowing bikers to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the places they visit. The benefits of having a guide also include facilitating interactions with locals, bridging language barriers, and enriching the ride with authentic stories and insights. In contrast, riding alone or with friends will limit these cultural experiences. And if you’re on a long trip, knowing someone has the area mapped out is a good deal for everyone involved.
Mechanical Support and Quick Repairs
Mechanical breakdowns are an unfortunate reality on any ride, but organised motorcycle group rides include a mechanic ready to handle any repairs quickly and efficiently. This can save hours of frustration trying to fix a rental bike in a remote area with limited resources. Whether it’s a flat tyre or a more serious issue, or even needing to adjust your helmet, having a professional mechanic on hand ensures you’re back on the road quickly, avoiding the delays that could derail a self-planned motorcycle trip.
The Best Roads and Scenic Routes
Organised motorcycle touring ensures you ride on the best roads with the most scenic views and enjoyable routes. A local guide who has spent years exploring the area will know the hidden gems, the most breathtaking landscapes, and the less-travelled roads that offer the best motorbike riding experience. Without this knowledge, solo motorcycle riders might be stuck on less exciting or dangerous routes. The guide’s expertise opens up a world of adventure, allowing you to see places you might never have discovered on your own.
Food and Stay Arrangements You Can Count On
Food and accommodation are other significant advantages of joining an organised motorbike tour. A knowledgeable motorbike tour operator will know the best restaurants and hotels, ensuring you eat well and rest comfortably after a long day of riding. Finding quality meals and places to stay in remote regions can be difficult, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or don’t speak the local language. Organised motorcycle rides take care of these details, so you don’t have to worry about ending up at subpar restaurants or struggling to find a decent place to sleep after a tiring day on the road.
Support Vehicle for Gear and Emergencies
A considerable advantage of organised motorcycle touring is the support vehicle that travels with the group. The support vehicle carries all the gear, spare parts, and essential supplies, allowing riders to enjoy the freedom of the open road on two wheels without being bogged down by gear. This makes your riding journey more comfortable and reduces strain on the motorcycle, improving safety and performance. Having a support vehicle means you’re prepared for any mechanical issues or emergencies that may arise, which would be much harder to manage when riding solo or with friends.
Motorcycle Tour Is the Ultimate Riding Experience
Whether you’re new to motorcycle touring or one of the experienced riders, the support provided by an organised group tour is truly the best idea to make the most of your adventure. Riding with other guys adds to the fun and opens up a world of shared experiences that create lasting memories.
By Digby Greenhalgh
Digby Greenhalgh is the founder of Explore Indochina, and a recognized expert on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. All motorcycle tours are designed and guided by Digby.