Custom Bike Competition Southwest Tour: Essential Gear

Quick Summary
Packing for the Custom Bike Competition Southwest Tour is exciting! For beginners, the best gear includes reliable riding apparel, basic tools, a good first-aid kit, navigation aids, and hydration. Being prepared ensures you focus on the fun and your bike’s performance, not on unexpected issues.

There’s a buzz about the Custom Bike Competition Southwest Tour, isn’t there? It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase your custom creation and experience some amazing landscapes. But if you’re new to this, the thought of packing can feel a bit overwhelming. What’s absolutely essential, and what can you leave behind? It’s easy to feel lost with so much advice out there.

Don’t worry, fellow riders! I’m Barry K. Richmond, and I’ve seen a few tours and tackled a few bike builds in my time. My goal is to make prepping for this adventure straightforward. We’ll break down the must-have gear so you can ride with confidence and enjoy every mile. Let’s get you ready for a smooth and successful tour!

Gearing Up for the Southwest Tour: Your Essential List

The Southwest Tour is an incredible experience, but the desert sun, varied terrain, and long stretches between services mean you need to be prepared. This isn’t just about your custom ride; it’s about you being ready too. Think of this as your buddy-to-buddy checklist to make sure you’ve got the essentials covered, from comfort to safety.

Your Riding Wardrobe: More Than Just Looks

When you’re out on tour, your riding gear is your first line of defense. It’s not just about looking cool; it’s about staying safe and comfortable. For the Southwest, think layers, protection, and airflow.

Protective Riding Apparel

This is non-negotiable. Even if your custom bike is a beauty, your skin is more precious.

Helmet: A full-face helmet offers the best protection. Ensure it’s DOT-approved and fits snugly. A helmet is critical for brain protection, as highlighted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Riding Jacket: Look for a jacket with armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back. Mesh jackets are great for airflow in the heat, but make sure they are abrasion-resistant.
Riding Pants: Similar to the jacket, pants with built-in knee and hip armor are ideal. Textile or leather pants offer good protection.
Gloves: Full-fingered gloves protect your hands from impacts, abrasion, and the sun. Perforated leather or breathable synthetic materials are good choices for warm weather.
Boots: Sturdy, over-the-ankle boots are a must. They protect your ankles and feet from road debris and provide a good grip on the bike.

Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: These help manage sweat and keep you cooler in the heat and warmer when it’s chilly.
Thermal Layers: A lightweight thermal shirt and pants can make a world of difference on cooler mornings or evenings.
Waterproof/Windproof Outer Shell: This can be a separate jacket and pants or a two-piece suit that you can layer over your riding gear. It protects against rain and wind chill.
Neck Gaiter or Bandana: Useful for keeping dust out of your mouth and nose, and can double as headwear or a sweatband.

Tire Plug Kit: These kits allow you to plug small punctures in tubeless tires without removing the wheel. Make sure you know how to use it before you need it! You can find great tutorials from reputable sources like RevZilla.
Portable Air Compressor or CO2 Inflator: Essential for reinflating your tire after a plug or to adjust pressure. A small 12V compressor that plugs into your bike’s accessory port is a good investment.
Tire Levers (if running tubes): If your custom build has a tube-type tire, you’ll need these to get the tire off the rim.
Spare Tube (if running tubes): Always carry a spare tube that matches your tire size.

Owner’s Manual: Even with a custom bike, the base model manual can offer crucial info on fluids, torque specs, and basic maintenance.
Shop Rags or Microfiber Cloths: For cleaning hands, wiping spills, or keeping parts clean.
Gloves (Mechanic Style): Keep your hands cleaner while you work.
Small Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for working on your bike in low light conditions.

GPS Device or Smartphone with Navigation App: A dedicated GPS unit can be great for rugged use, but a smartphone with reliable apps like Google Maps or dedicated motorcycle navigation apps (e.g., Calimoto, RideWithGPS) works too.
Why it’s important: For planning routes, finding services, and staying on track. Check out tips from a resource like the Federal Highway Administration on intelligent transportation systems which includes navigation aspects.
Phone Mount for your Bike: If using your smartphone, a sturdy mount is crucial for visibility and safety.
Portable Power Bank: To keep your phone or GPS charged if your bike’s charging system isn’t sufficient or if you’re off the bike.
Communication Device (Optional but Recommended): Depending on your tour and riding companions, consider a Bluetooth helmet communication system for easy chat with fellow riders or a satellite messenger if you’ll be in areas with no cell service.

Hydration and Snacks: Fueling Your Ride

The Southwest is dry and hot. Staying hydrated is paramount. Don’t underestimate this!

Reusable Water Bottles or Hydration Pack: Carry more water than you think you’ll need. Aim for at least a gallon of water per person per day if you’re not sure about refilling points.
Electrolyte Tablets or Drink Mixes: Replace salts lost through sweat to prevent dehydration and cramps.
Energy Bars, Nuts, Dried Fruit: These are great for quick energy boosts when you can’t stop for a full meal. Keep them easily accessible while riding.

Reflective Vest or Patches: Make yourself more visible, especially if you break down or ride in low-light conditions.
Small Fire Extinguisher (Motorcycle Specific): For minor electrical fires or fuel leaks.
Whistle: Can be used to signal for help if you cannot shout.

Bike-Specific Customizations: What to Pack for Your Build

Since this is a custom bike competition tour, your bike itself might have specific needs.

Aftermarket Parts Manuals: If you’ve installed unique parts, keep their manuals handy.
Spare Parts for Known Weak Points: For custom builds, sometimes specific components (like a particular lever, hose clamp, or filter) are more prone to issues. If you know of one, consider bringing a spare.
Specialty Fluids: If your custom build uses a non-standard brake fluid, coolant, or oil, bring a small quantity.

Driver’s License & Motorcycle Endorsement: Current and valid, obviously!
Vehicle Registration: For your custom ride.
Proof of Insurance: Keep a copy easily accessible.
Emergency Contact Information: Written down, not just on your phone.
Cash and Credit Cards: Have both on hand. Some smaller towns or remote areas might be cash-only.
Lodging Reservations (if applicable): Printouts or easily accessible digital copies.

Tail Bag or Saddlebags: These are common choices for carrying larger items like jackets, tools, and first-aid kits.
Tank Bag: Great for items you need quick access to, like your phone, wallet, snacks, and a map.
Backpack: Use sparingly. Carrying too much weight on your back can cause fatigue and affect your riding posture. If you do use one, make sure it’s well-fitted and not overstuffed.
Waterproof Bags/Dry Sacks: Use these for sensitive items like electronics, documents, and spare clothing. Even if your luggage is water-resistant, extra protection is wise.

Earplugs: Wind noise at highway speeds can be deafening and cause long-term hearing damage. Invest in good quality earplugs. The CDC recommends hearing protection for noisy activities, and motorcycle riding is definitely one of them – check out their guidance on preventing noise-induced hearing loss.
Comfortable Seat Cushion (Optional): If your custom seat isn’t perfectly set up for long-distance comfort, a gel or air cushion can be a lifesaver.
Anti-Vibration Grips: Can help reduce hand fatigue on long rides.
Sunglasses or a Helmet Visor: Essential for clear vision and protecting your eyes from sun, wind, and debris.

Before you even think about packing your bags, your custom bike needs to be in top shape. This isn’t gear, but it’s the most essential preparation.

Tires: Check tread depth and pressure. Are they good for Southwest roads?
Brakes: Test them thoroughly. Are they responsive?
Fluids: Check oil, brake fluid, coolant levels, and condition. When was the last oil change?
Chain/Belt: Is it properly tensioned and lubricated?
Lights and Signals: All working?
Horn: Loud and clear?
Battery: Is it holding a charge well?
* Bolts and Fasteners: With a custom bike, give everything a good once-over. Are any loose?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What’s the most important piece of gear for a Southwest motorcycle tour?
A1: Your helmet and protective riding apparel are the most crucial. They are your primary safety gear and protect you from injuries in case of an accident or simply from the elements.

Q2: How much water should I bring for a day of riding in the Southwest?

A2: It’s best to err on the side of caution. Aim for at least one gallon (about 4 liters) of water per person per day. Dehydration can set in quickly in hot, dry climates, affecting your judgment and physical performance.

Q3: Do I really need a tire plug kit for a custom bike competition tour?

A3: Absolutely. Flat tires are a common roadside issue. A plug kit, combined with a way to reinflate the tire, can let you fix a puncture yourself and get back on the road without waiting for roadside assistance, which can be scarce in some Southwest areas.

Q4: My custom bike has a unique exhaust. Do I need special tools for it?

A4: If your custom modifications require specific tools or parts (like specialized wrenches for exhaust clamps or specific fluids), make sure to bring them. Review any work done on your bike and list any unique tools or spares that might be needed for those specific components.

Q5: How should I carry my tools and gear on my custom bike?

A5: Securely and accessibly. Saddlebags, a tail bag, or a tank bag are good options. Ensure your gear is waterproofed, as Southwest weather can include sudden, intense rain showers. Avoid overloading a backpack, which can affect your balance and comfort.

Q6: I’m worried about the heat. What’s the best way to stay cool while riding?

A6: Layering with moisture-wicking base layers, wearing a mesh riding jacket, and staying constantly hydrated are key. Perforated gear allows for better airflow. Consider a cooling vest designed for motorcyclists if you’re particularly sensitive to heat.

Conclusion

So there you have it, riders! Gearing up for the Custom Bike Competition Southwest Tour is an adventure in itself