There are few things you’d enjoy less on that bike ride you’ve been working towards for months than being stranded in some foreign country, on a motorway, with a broken down motorcycle! However it is surprising how many people take a very passive approach to preparing for such situations! For instance, most motorcyclists I know, will just up and go one day without preparation or even proper packing, and if they break down somewhere, they get stuck. They’ll laugh it off if it happens to someone else, and mostly tend to get lucky during their trips. But if something does happen, personally I’d rather be sure that something can be done about it.

I wouldn’t want to rely on my linguistic skills in a foreign country, firstly trying to find a mechanic, and then trying to arrange for transport, furthermore trying to explain the problem. I’d much rather have these things sorted for me.

So for exactly that reason, when we went to France over the Easter Break on our Moto Guzzi California EV, we got some Breakdown Cover
before leaving, to cover our entire trip.

The process of signing up for European breakdown cover with the AA is fairly straightforward. You just get a quote on their website, and pay with your credit card. Then within moments you will (if you opted to) receive an SMS and an Email with the policy details and contact numbers in case of a breakdown.

We were very glad that during our entire trip nothing whatsoever went wrong with the bike, but just in case it was a good decision to get the cover beforehand.

However: if you’re serious about covering yourself against breakdowns in a foreign country, you should make sure that you opt for the level of support you would like. For instance, the basic breakdown cover can only do so much, if you have children with you, or other important obligations, it may make sense to get some extra level of cover added on to your policy.

And in case you need to travel abroad more than once a year, why not get annual cover and save some money on the premium as well…

Ever since the first time I’ve done it, I was sold on the idea that the way to see the world is on two wheels. Since I’m too lazy to go cycling, a motorcycle had to be the way! But simply because a motorcycle doesn’t have a roof or many of the other safety features and comfortable additions that a car has, it is important to be well prepared. Some items will heavily depend on where exactly you plan on going, but most are quite universally required:

1. SatNav – ever tried reading a map while riding a motorcycle – even if as a pillion? It defies the whole point of being on two wheels, as one with the surroundings, being able to absorb the views. With your eyes staring at a map flapping in the wind, prepare yourself for many missed turns, missed sights and endless frustration!
2. Luggage – It can be a challenge to pack all you need if you don’t have the appropriate bags. Also, hours and hours on a motorway while carrying a backpack will leave you stiff and full of regret. Pack as much as you can into panniers, only essentials in a tank bag, and you’re all set!
3. Proper Gear – From a well fitting helmet to good waterproof clothing, being geared up is a must, especially if you’re expecting to encounter some bad weather.
4. Intercom – whether you’re travelling with a pillion or as a group of multiple riders; as long as you’re not alone, it is vital to be able to communicate with your fellow travellers. Depending on whom you’re trying to talk to, a rider-passenger intercom or wireless intercom with a range of multiple km might be right up your lane.
5. First Aid – even if you’re the most careful person on this planet, you should have at least a basic first aid kit with you. Especially if you’re going to some remote locations, it’s good to have something with you, rather than having to depend on emergency rescue services and local health care.
6. Servicing & Spares – this may seem obvious, but your bike should be up for the job of taking you where you’re trying to go! Get it serviced (or do it yourself), pack some spares – you know your bike best so decide on the essentials. If it’s easy enough to install, some spark plugs, a spare clutch, brake and accelerator wire might be a good thing to pack. If nothing else, if you need to be rescued from the side of the road, the break down services can use your spares to get you up and running quickly. Perhaps also a tyre pump and repair kit. You get the idea!