A custom bike competition Midwest route for families needs careful planning to include accessible roads, engaging stops, and safe riding conditions. Prioritize routes with gentle terrain, scenic beauty, and family-focused attractions to ensure a fun and memorable experience for everyone.
Riding motorcycles as a family is a fantastic way to create lasting memories and explore new places. When you’re looking to join a custom bike competition with your loved ones, finding the right route is key. It’s not just about the competition itself, but the entire journey. Many riders worry about whether their bike is ready or if the route will be too challenging. But don’t you worry, we’ll break down how to pick and plan an “Essential Midwest Family Route” that makes the competition accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Get ready to hit the road with confidence!
Why the Midwest for Your Family Bike Adventure?
The Midwest region of the United States offers a unique blend of charm, accessibility, and variety that makes it ideal for a family motorcycle trip centered around a custom bike competition. Unlike mountainous regions or sprawling coastal highways, the Midwest often boasts flatter landscapes, well-maintained roads, and a network of smaller towns that are more than welcoming to visitors. This makes it easier to manage longer riding days, especially with less experienced riders or younger family members.
Beyond the practicalities of riding, the Midwest is rich in diverse attractions. From rolling farmlands and historicRoute 66 stretches to vibrant cities and charming lakeside communities, there’s always something to see and do. This variety ensures that downtime between competition events isn’t simply downtime – it’s an opportunity for exploration and fun. For families, this means finding picnic spots, kid-friendly museums, quirky roadside attractions, and delicious, unpretentious diners that cater to all ages and tastes.
Planning a route that incorporates these elements transforms a competition trip into a true family adventure. It’s about building anticipation for the competition while also celebrating the joy of the ride and the discovery along the way.
Choosing Your “Essential Midwest Family Route”: Key Considerations
When mapping out your family’s custom bike competition journey through the Midwest, several factors should guide your choices. Think of this as building the perfect custom bike for the road – each component needs to be right for the job.
1. Road Conditions and Terrain: Smooth Sailing for Everyone
For a family-friendly route, prioritize roads that are well-paved and offer a comfortable ride. The Midwest is generally known for its excellent road infrastructure, but it’s always wise to research specific routes. Avoid areas known for excessive construction, rough patches, or very winding, steep inclines if you have beginners or younger riders. Gentle, rolling hills are usually fine, but long, challenging grades can be tiring.
Paved Surfaces: Look for major state highways and interstates as a base, but don’t shy away from scenic county roads that are also well-maintained.
Gentle Terrain: Plains and rolling hills are ideal. Avoid mountain passes or extreme elevation changes.
Traffic Levels: Opt for routes that minimize heavy city traffic during peak hours if possible. Smaller towns offer a more relaxed pace.
2. Family-Friendly Stops and Attractions: More Than Just the Finish Line
A competition can be a focal point, but the journey needs entertainment for everyone. Integrating stops that appeal to different ages is crucial for keeping spirits high and energy levels up.
Nature & Outdoors: State parks, national forests, lakes, and rivers offer opportunities for picnics, short hikes, or simply stretching legs in fresh air.
History & Culture: Consider stops at local historical sites, pioneer villages, or unique regional museums. Many Midwest towns have proud histories worth exploring.
Quirky Roadside Attractions: The Midwest is famous for its giant statues, unique sculptures, and oddities that spark curiosity and fun photo opportunities.
Foodie Finds: Seek out local diners, ice cream shops, and bakeries. A delicious treat can be a highlight for kids and adults alike.
3. Safety First: Ensuring a Secure Ride
Safety is the bedrock of any motorcycle trip, especially with family. This extends from the bike’s preparation to the route itself.
Rider Experience: Tailor the daily mileage and route complexity to the least experienced rider in your group.
Rest Stops: Plan for regular breaks to combat fatigue. Look for well-lit, safe locations at these stops.
Emergency Preparedness: Ensure you have a basic tool kit, first-aid kit, and knowledge of local emergency services along your chosen route. Websites like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offer excellent resources on motorcycle safety.
4. Proximity to the Competition Venue: Minimizing Travel Stress
While you want to enjoy the journey, convenience to the competition location is also important.
Logical Hubs: Consider basing yourselves in a town near the competition venue and using that as a hub for day trips or the final approach.
Accommodation: Research family-friendly hotels, campgrounds, or rental properties in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.
Mapping Your Ideal Midwest Route: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of planning your “Essential Midwest Family Route.” Think of this as building the perfect custom bike – every step adds value and ensures a great outcome.
Step 1: Define Your Competition’s Location and Dates
This is your starting point. Know precisely where and when your custom bike competition is happening. This allows you to work backward and forward to create a logical travel plan.
Step 2: Identify Potential “Hub” Towns or Cities
Look for towns or cities within a few hours’ ride of the competition venue that also offer good amenities and attractions. These could be charming small towns with historic districts, lakeside communities, or even larger cities with diverse family activities.
Example: If your competition is in Columbus, Ohio, a hub town might be a place like Yellow Springs, known for its quirky vibe and Antoni Park, or a lakeside town along Lake Erie for a scenic detour.
Step 3: Research Scenic Byways and County Roads
Once you have potential hubs, investigate routes between them and to your competition venue. Websites like America’s Byways can be a great resource for finding designated scenic routes. Don’t underestimate the charm of well-maintained county roads for a more relaxed, scenic experience.
Look for: Roads marked as “scenic drives,” “historic routes,” or those passing through state parks or along riverfronts.
Consult Local Tourism Boards: Many states and towns have helpful tourism websites (e.g., Travel Iowa, Pure Michigan) that highlight attractions and scenic routes.
Step 4: Integrate Family-Friendly Stops
Now, sprinkle in those fun stops! Use online mapping tools and travel guides to find points of interest along your potential paths.
Tools: Google Maps, Roadtrippers.com, or even just a good old-fashioned atlas can help you visualize distances and locate attractions.
Consider: Playgrounds, unique eateries, accessible historical markers, and easy-to-access natural areas.
Step 5: Segment Your Ride into Daily Legs
Break down the total journey into manageable daily rides. For family riding, aim for no more than 3-5 hours of actual saddle time per day, leaving ample time for stops, meals, and relaxation.
Daily Mileage: Keep daily distances realistic, especially if factoring in side trips or sightseeing. 100-200 miles is often a comfortable daily range for families.
Flexibility: Build in some buffer time. Unexpected delays happen, or you might discover a hidden gem you want to explore longer.
Step 6: Map Your Route with Navigation Tools
Use your preferred GPS device or smartphone app (like Google Maps, Waze, or dedicated motorcycle GPS apps) to plan your route. Input your waypoints, including your daily destinations and any must-see stops.
Save Offline Maps: Crucial for areas with spotty cell service.
Share with Your Group: Ensure everyone has access to the planned route.
Step 7: Create a Contingency Plan
What if the weather turns bad? What if a bike has a minor issue? Having a backup plan is wise.
Weather: Identify alternative indoor activities or shorter, sheltered routes if rain is forecast.
Mechanicals: Know the location of reputable repair shops along your route.
Sample Midwest Family Route: A Midwestern Charm Tour (Example)
To illustrate, let’s sketch out a hypothetical “Midwestern Charm Tour” route, assuming a competition is somewhere in the Illinois/Wisconsin area. This route emphasizes scenic beauty, history, and family fun.
Duration: 4-5 Days (adjustable)
Focus: Charming towns, scenic country roads, family attractions.
Starting Point (Hypothetical): Chicago suburbs, Illinois
Competition Venue (Hypothetical): Milwaukee, Wisconsin
This is a conceptual example to showcase route planning elements. Specific attractions and road numbers would need to be researched based on the actual competition location.
Day 1: Illinois Countryside to Galena, Illinois
Route: Depart Chicago suburbs, heading northwest on US-20 West. Transition to scenic Illinois Route 84 along the Mississippi River.
Distance: Approx. 160 miles (3-4 hours riding time).
Family Stops:
Lunch in a quaint town like Woodstock, IL (if time allows for a slight detour), or pack a picnic to enjoy at a Mississippi River overlook.
Historic Galena, IL: Explore the charming Main Street, U.S. Grant’s home, and enjoy the hilly terrain. Plenty of kid-friendly shops and ice cream parlors.
Accommodation: Galena offers historic B&Bs and family hotels.
Day 2: Galena, Illinois to Dubuque, Iowa & Scenic River Drive to Madison Wisconsins
Route: Short ride across the Mississippi River into Iowa to Dubuque. Then, pick up US-151 North through Wisconsin’s rolling hills towards Madison. This route offers lovely farmland vistas.
Distance: Approx. 150 miles (3-4 hours riding time).
Family Stops:
Dubuque, IA: Consider the Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium or a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator (the world’s shortest, steepest railroad!).
Stop in Mount Horeb, WI, known as “The Troll Capitol of the World,” for a quirky detour.
Dodgeville, WI: Visit the House on the Rock (a wildly unique and memorable attraction for all ages) – a slight detour but highly recommended for its sheer oddity.
Accommodation: Madison, WI – lots of family-friendly hotels near the Capitol Square or lakes.
Day 3: Madison, Wisconsin – A Day of Exploration
Focus: Enjoying Madison and its surroundings without extensive riding.
Family Activities:
Tour the Wisconsin State Capitol Building.
Visit the Henry Vilas Zoo (free admission).
Explore the Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
Walk the State Street pedestrian mall.
Consider a boat tour on Lake Mendota.
Accommodation: Madison, WI.
Day 4: Madison, Wisconsin to Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Competition Day/Arrival Day)
Route: A straightforward ride northeast to Milwaukee via I-94. This is a highway route designed for efficient travel to the competition.
Distance: Approx. 80 miles (1.5-2 hours riding time).
Family Stops:
Optional stop at the Lowell Heritage Museum if time permits for a quick historical glimpse.
Consider a stop at the Milwaukee Public Museum upon arrival if time allows before competition activities.
Competition: Head to the competition venue!
Accommodation: Milwaukee, WI.
Notes on this Sample Route:
Flexibility: This can be shortened or lengthened by spending more time in each location or by adding more points of interest.
Road Types: It balances scenic county roads with efficient highway stretches for different needs.
Attractions: A mix of historical, quirky, and natural attractions.
Essential Gear and Bike Prep for the Family Route
Before you even think about rolling out, a well-prepared bike and the right gear make all the difference, especially when riding with family. This isn’t just about the competition; it’s about your family’s comfort and safety on the route.
Bike Preparation Checklist:
Tires: Check tread depth and tire pressure. Ensure they are in good condition.
Brakes: Verify brake pads have plenty of life left and that the brake fluid is at the correct level.
Fluids: Check and top off engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
Lights & Electrical: Test all lights, turn signals, and horn.
Chain/Belt: Ensure the drive chain is properly tensioned and lubricated, or that the belt drive is in good shape.
Battery: Check its age and connections.
General Inspection: Look for any loose bolts, cables, or signs of leaks. A pre-trip inspection by a trusted mechanic is always a good idea if you’re not doing it yourself.
Essential Riding Gear for Everyone:
Helmet: DOT-approved and fits properly.
Eye Protection: Visors on helmets or separate eyewear.
Jacket & Pants: Abrasion-resistant riding gear (textile or leather).
Gloves: Full-fingered gloves.
Footwear: Over-the-ankle boots.
Rain Gear: Essential for unpredictable Midwest weather.
Layers: Pack clothing suitable for varying temperatures.
Family-Specific Gear & Comfort Items:
Comfortable Seating: If you have a passenger, ensure their seating is comfortable for longer rides. Aftermarket seats or cushions can help.
Communication Devices: If riding in a group, consider helmets with Bluetooth communication systems.
First-Aid Kit: A comprehensive kit designed for roadside incidents.
Tool Kit: Basic tools for on-the-road adjustments (tire repair kit, wrenches, screwdrivers).
Navigation Tools: GPS device or smartphone with mounted charger.
Snacks & Water: Keep energy levels up, especially for the younger riders.
Making the Most of the Competition Weekend
The “Essential Midwest Family Route” isn’t just about getting to the competition; it’s about enhancing the entire experience.
Arrival Day: Arrive a day or two early to get settled. This allows time for a relaxed final bike check, familiarization with the competition grounds, and a chance for the family to unwind before the main event.
During the Competition: If there’s downtime between heats or events, use it to explore the local area around the competition venue. Many competition sites are in or near towns with their own unique charm.
* Post-Competition: Don’t rush off immediately. If the chosen route allowed for it, you’ve built in opportunities for fun. Consider a celebratory dinner in a local spot or a final scenic ride on the way home. This reinforces the idea that the trip was about shared experiences.
A Note on Supporting Local Businesses
As you travel your “Essential Midwest Family Route,” remember the joy of discovery lies not just in sights but in local flavor. Supporting small businesses – the diners, the gas stations, the local souvenir shops, and even the bike shops along the way – adds to the richness of your journey and helps these communities thrive. Ask locals for recommendations; they often know the best hidden gems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the most important factor when choosing a Midwest family motorcycle route for a competition?
- The most important factor is ensuring the route is safe and enjoyable for all riders, prioritizing well-maintained roads, manageable distances, and family-friendly stops that cater to different ages.
- How many miles should a family try to ride per day on a motorcycle trip?
- For family trips, it’s best to keep daily mileage to around 100-200 miles, or about 3-5 hours of actual riding time. This allows plenty of time for breaks, meals, and exploring attractions without causing fatigue.
- What kind of attractions are best for a family on a Midwest motorcycle route?
- Look for a mix of natural beauty (parks, lakes), historical sites, quirky roadside attractions, and engaging local eateries. Variety keeps everyone interested. Many small Midwest towns have local museums or unique shops.
- Is a custom bike suitable for a long family route, or should I use a different bike for the journey?
- It depends on the custom bike! If it’s built for comfort and reliability, it can be perfect. However, consider factors like passenger comfort, luggage capacity, and fuel range. If your custom build prioritizes style over practicality for long distances, a secondary, more touring-oriented bike might be considered