33 tips for touring by motorcycle

The AMA's website has a nice list of tips for smart touring. Some are pretty obvious, but I'm seeing some for the first time:

4) Portable weather radios are now in the $20 range, and the first time one saves you from running right into a massive storm, you’ll wonder why you ever traveled without one. Check accessory companies like Aerostich, or Radio Shack.

5) On high-mileage days, you’ll feel a lot better if you carry eyedrops and use them every time you stop for gas.

20) Especially if you’re riding alone, wear a dog-tag with your name and contact info. You can get them lots of places, including your local army surplus store.

21) Take a look back at where you were parked every time you leave someplace. You’d be amazed at what you find.

31) If you call a hotel—even if you’re two blocks away—you can often get a better rate than if you just walk in. And if you have access to a computer, there are some spectacular Internet-only deals available these days. Either way, do yourself a favor and have a reservation by 4 p.m. You never know when a convention will take over your destination city. Remember that AMA members get a discount at Red Roof Inns (call (800) RED-ROOF and use AMA code CP503343).

Tip 17 is a plug for MoTow and that's one that is pretty vital for any long distance motorcycle touring. Think of it as something like AAA's breakdown service but for bikers, and at $25 a year, it's a bargain.