For your Motorcycle Rally on Route 66, the best gear to bring includes protective riding apparel for all weather, reliable navigation tools, emergency repair kits, and personal comfort items. Prioritize safety with a DOT-approved helmet, abrasion-resistant jacket and pants, gloves, and sturdy boots. Always have a first-aid kit and tools for minor roadside fixes.
Hey there, fellow riders! Barry K. Richmond here. Thinking about tackling the iconic Route 66 on your motorcycle? That’s fantastic! It’s a legendary ride, filled with history and amazing scenery. But before you hit the open road, let’s chat about one of the most crucial parts of any motorcycle journey: your gear. Getting this right means you can focus on the adventure, not on unexpected problems or discomfort. We’ll break down exactly what you need, making sure you’re prepared for whatever the Mother Road throws your way.
Why Route 66 Demands Specific Gear
Route 66 isn’t just a highway; it’s an experience. It stretches over 2,400 miles, crossing multiple states with vastly different climates and road conditions. You can start in the cooler, sometimes wet air of Chicago and end in the desert heat of Southern California. This means your gear needs to be versatile. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about staying safe, comfortable, and ready to handle anything from a sudden downpour to a scorching afternoon.
Think about it: you’ll be riding through plains, mountains, and deserts. The weather can change in an instant. You might encounter strong winds, blazing sun, unexpected rain, and cooler evenings. Having the right gear isn’t just a recommendation; it’s essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. It’s our shield against the elements and the road, ensuring you arrive at your destination with smiles, not scrapes.
Your Rider Protection: The Foundation of Your Gear
When you’re on a motorcycle, your gear is your first and best line of defense. Investing in quality protective gear is non-negotiable, especially for a long ride like Route 66. Let’s cover the essentials from head to toe.
Helmet: Your Most Important Piece of Kit
A helmet is more than just an accessory; it’s a life-saver. For Route 66, you’ll want a helmet that not only meets safety standards but also offers comfort for long hours in the saddle.
DOT Approval is Key: Always ensure your helmet has a sticker from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This means it meets minimum safety requirements. For even better protection, consider helmets with a Snell certification. You can learn more about helmet standards from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Full Face vs. Modular vs. Open Face:
Full-face helmets offer the most protection, covering your entire head and face. They are generally the safest and best for long rides, protecting against debris and weather.
Modular helmets (flip-ups) offer the convenience of an open-face helmet with the full-face protection when it’s down. They are a great compromise for touring.
Open-face helmets leave your face exposed, offering less protection. While cooler, they are not recommended for long-distance or high-speed riding on Route 66.
Fit and Ventilation: A proper fit is crucial for comfort and safety. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. Good ventilation helps prevent your head from overheating and your face shield from fogging up.
Riding Jacket: Protection and Adaptability
Your jacket is your upper body armor. Look for one that provides abrasion resistance and impact protection, and is adaptable to changing weather.
Material Matters:
Leather: Classic, durable, and offers excellent abrasion resistance. It can be heavy and less breathable in hot weather.
Textile: Made from materials like Cordura or ballistic nylon, these jackets are often waterproof, breathable, and lighter than leather. They offer adjustable ventilation and are very versatile.
Features to Look For:
Armor: Built-in CE-rated armor in the shoulders, elbows, and back offers crucial impact protection.
Ventilation Zippers: Essential for temperature regulation. Look for zippers on the chest, back, and arms that can be opened to allow airflow.
Removable Liner: A removable thermal or waterproof liner makes your jacket suitable for a wider range of temperatures and conditions.
High-Visibility Elements: Reflective piping or panels can significantly increase your visibility to other motorists, especially at dawn, dusk, or in poor weather.
Riding Pants: Shielding Your Legs
Just as important as your jacket, riding pants protect your legs from abrasion and impact.
Similar Materials: Like jackets, riding pants come in leather and textile. Textile pants are generally more practical for touring due to their lighter weight and breathability.
Key Features:
Integrated Armor: Look for pants with CE-rated knee and hip armor.
Abrasion Resistance: Crucial for road rash prevention.
Waterproofing: Consider pants with a waterproof or water-resistant construction, or those with a waterproof liner.
Comfort and Fit: Ensure they are comfortable for long hours of sitting and allow for easy movement. Adjustable waistbands and leg openings are a plus.
Gloves: Dexterity and Protection
Gloves protect your hands from impacts, abrasions, and the elements. They are also vital for grip and control.
Material: Leather offers great feel and abrasion resistance, while textile or synthetic materials can be more breathable and waterproof. Many modern gloves use a combination.
Types for Route 66:
Full Gauntlet Gloves: Offer the most protection, extending up over the wrist and lower forearm.
Short Cuff Gloves: More comfortable for warmer weather but offer less wrist protection.
Features: Look for padded knuckles, reinforced palms, and good grip. Waterproof and insulated gloves are essential for variable weather.
Boots: Ankle Support and Foot Protection
Your feet and ankles are vulnerable. Sturdy riding boots are a must.
What to Look For: Boots should be over-the-ankle to provide crucial ankle support. They need to be abrasion-resistant and offer impact protection. Look for oil-resistant soles for good grip on your footpegs and any potentially oily surfaces.
Comfort for Miles: Since you’ll be walking around at stops and potentially walking your bike, comfort is key. Ensure they fit well and break in before your trip.
Dressing for the Elements: Layering is Your Best Friend
Route 66 traverses diverse climates. The ability to adapt your clothing is paramount. Layering is the most effective strategy.
Base Layers
These are worn against your skin to manage moisture and temperature.
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Synthetic materials like polyester or merino wool are excellent. They pull sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. Cotton should be avoided as it holds moisture, making you cold when it’s damp.
Purpose: Base layers keep you warm in cooler temperatures and help you stay dry in hotter ones by wicking away sweat.
Mid Layers
These provide insulation.
Fleece or Thermal Inserts: A fleece jacket or a thermal vest can be added for warmth on chilly mornings or evenings. Many riding jackets come with removable thermal liners, which serve this purpose.
Adaptability: The ability to easily add or remove a mid-layer is crucial for staying comfortable as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day or as you gain or lose elevation.
Outer Layers (Your Riding Gear)
This is your primary protective shell – your jacket and pants. As discussed earlier, ensure they are well-ventilated for warm weather and can accommodate mid-layers for cold.
Visibility: Being Seen is Being Safe
On a long journey like Route 66, where you’ll encounter all sorts of traffic and varying light conditions, being visible is a top priority.
Bright Colors: Opt for high-visibility colors for your helmet, jacket lining, or accessories. Yellow, neon green, and orange are excellent choices.
Reflective Gear: Many riding jackets and pants come with reflective elements. If yours don’t, consider adding reflective tape to your jacket, helmet, or bike. Reflective vests are also a great option, easily worn over your riding jacket.
Auxiliary Lighting: While not strictly ‘gear’ you wear, ensuring your motorcycle’s headlights and taillights are in good working order is vital. Some riders consider adding auxiliary driving lights or a brighter LED bulb for enhanced visibility.
Staying Connected: Navigation and Communication
Getting lost can be frustrating and time-consuming. Reliable navigation is essential for a smooth Route 66 experience.
Navigation Tools
GPS Device: A dedicated GPS unit for motorcycles is ideal. They are often waterproof, shock-resistant, and designed for handlebar mounting. Brands like Garmin and TomTom offer excellent options.
Smartphone with Navigation Apps: Your smartphone can be a powerful navigation tool. Apps like Google Maps, Waze, or dedicated motorcycle routing apps (like Rever or RideWithGPS) are great. Remember to use a waterproof and shockproof mount for your phone.
Paper Maps & Atlas: Don’t underestimate the classic! Carry a physical map book (like an atlas) or individual maps of the states you’ll be riding through. They are a reliable backup if your electronics fail or lose signal, and they provide a great overview of the entire route. A good option is the DeLorme Road Atlas, which is known for its detailed highway information.
Communication Devices (Optional but Recommended)
Bluetooth Headset: Integrate this with your helmet for hands-free calls, music, and GPS audio cues. Many modern helmets have built-in Bluetooth or options for adding them. Brands like Sena and Cardo are popular.
Two-Way Radios: If riding with a group, two-way radios can be useful for short-range communication between riders, especially when cell service is spotty.
Keeping Your Bike Running Smoothly: Essential Tools and Emergency Gear
Breakdowns happen. Being prepared to handle minor issues can save your trip and a lot of money. You don’t need to carry a full mechanic’s toolkit, but a few essentials go a long way.
Basic Tool Kit
Assemble a small, portable toolkit with items specifically for your motorcycle model.
Common Sockets and Wrenches: Include sizes most frequently used on your bike (e.g., for adjusting levers, tightening mirrors, or removing wheel nuts).
Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flathead.
Allen (Hex) Keys: In common metric sizes.
Pliers: Needle-nose and standard pliers.
Tire Pressure Gauge: Essential for maintaining proper tire inflation, which affects handling and tire wear.
Zip Ties and Duct Tape: Invaluable for temporary repairs.
Tire Repair Kit
Flat tires are a common issue for motorcyclists.
Tire Plug Kit (for tubeless tires): These kits allow you to quickly plug a small puncture and reinflate the tire. They are relatively easy to use.
CO2 Cartridges or Small Portable Air Compressor: To re-inflate your tire after plugging it.
Tire Levers (if you have tubed tires): For removing the tire to replace the tube.
Spare Inner Tube (if applicable): If you ride a bike with inner tubes, carrying a spare is a must.
Other Emergency Supplies
First-Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit for treating minor injuries. Ensure it includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Jumper Cables or Portable Battery Charger: For dead batteries.
Owner’s Manual: Keep a copy (or a digital version) of your motorcycle’s owner’s manual. It contains crucial information on maintenance and troubleshooting.
Comfort on the Long Haul: Personal Items and Accessories
Beyond safety and tools, comfort is key to enjoying a long motorcycle rally like Route 66.
Hydration and Snacks
Water Bottles or Hydration Pack: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the heat of the Southwest.
Energy Bars or Snacks: Keep some non-perishable snacks handy for quick energy boosts between stops.
Sunglasses and Eye Protection
Beyond Your Face Shield: Even with a face shield, strong sunlight can be tiring. Sunglasses are essential for when you stop or if you ride with an open-face helmet. They should offer UV protection.
Clear and Tinted Lenses: If your helmet has a removable face shield, consider carrying a spare clear or tinted shield to adapt to different light conditions.
Personal Items
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Protect your skin from the sun, even through your riding gear.
Moisturizer: The wind and sun can dry out your skin.
Basic Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
Phone Charger and Power Bank: Keep your devices powered up.
Earplugs: Essential for reducing wind noise fatigue on long rides. Long-term exposure to wind noise can lead to hearing damage. Visit Dangerous Decibels for more information on motorcycle noise and hearing protection.
Luggage Solutions
Riding Packs: Backpacks are common but can be uncomfortable and affect your posture on long rides.
Tank Bags: Convenient for often-used items like your phone, wallet, and snacks.
Tail Bags/Saddlebags: For carrying the bulk of your gear. Choose waterproof options or use dry bags inside.
Route 66 Specific Gear Considerations
While the general gear covers most bases, Route 66 has some unique aspects.
Weather Variability: As mentioned, pack layers! You might ride through a cool morning in Oklahoma and a sweltering afternoon in Arizona.
Desert Riding: In the desert regions, be prepared for extreme heat. Ensure your gear is as breathable as possible, and prioritize hydration. Sun protection is paramount.
Magnets & Metal: If you plan on sticking any Route 66 souvenir magnets to your gas tank, ensure your tank is protected with a clear protective film or use magnetic tank bag bases that won’t scratch paint.
Local Conditions: Research specific areas you’ll be riding through. Some remote stretches may have limited services, making your repair kit even more vital.
Setting Up Your Gear Checklist
To make sure you don’t forget anything, use a checklist. Here’s a sample to get you started:
Motorcycle Safety Gear
[ ] DOT-approved Helmet
[ ] Motorcycle Jacket (with armor)
[ ] Motorcycle Pants (with armor)
[ ] Riding Gloves
[ ] Riding Boots (over-the-ankle)
[ ] High-Visibility Vest (optional)
[ ] Earplugs
Weather Gear
[ ] Base Layers (moisture-wicking)
[ ] Mid Layer (fleece or thermal)
[ ] Waterproof/Windproof Outer Shell (if jacket/pants aren’t fully waterproof)
[ ] Waterproof Gloves (optional, depending on forecast)
[ ] Balaclava or Neck Gaiter
Navigation & Communication
[ ] GPS Device or Smartphone Mount
[ ] Charger for Devices
[ ] Power Bank
[ ] Bluetooth Headset (optional)
[ ] Paper Maps/Atlas
Tools & Emergency Supplies
[ ] Basic Tool Kit (specific to your bike)
[ ] Tire Plug Kit
[ ] Tire Pressure Gauge
[ ] CO2 Cartridges/Air Compressor
[ ] Spare Inner Tube (if applicable)
[ ] Jumper Cables/Portable Charger
[ ] First-Aid Kit
[ ] Duct Tape & Zip Ties
[ ] Owner’s Manual
Personal Comfort & Extras
[ ] Sunglasses
[ ] Sunscreen & Lip Balm
[ ] Water Bottles/Hydration Pack
[ ] Snacks
[ ] Personal Medications
[ ] Luggage System (tank bag, saddlebags, tail bag)
[ ] Dry Bags (for waterproofing luggage)
Gear Maintenance Before You Go
Before you even pack, ensure your gear is in top condition.
Inspect for Wear: Check your helmet liner, jacket seams, pant stitching, and glove padding for any signs of wear and tear.
Clean Your Gear: Wash your riding gear to remove any dirt or grime. Clean your helmet interior.
Test Electronics: Make sure your GPS, phone mount, and communication devices are working correctly. Charge all batteries.
* Lubricate Zippers: Zippers can be stubborn. Lubricate them with wax or a silicone spray to ensure they move smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the most important gear for a Route 66 motorcycle rally?
A1: The single most important piece of gear is your DOT-approved helmet, followed closely by abrasion-resistant jacket, pants, gloves, and boots. These protect you from impact and road rash.
Q2: Do I need waterproof gear for Route 66?
A2: Yes, it’s highly recommended. Route 66 passes through areas that can experience sudden rain showers and varying temperatures. Waterproof or highly water-resistant gear, or at least a good waterproofing system with liners and dry bags, will keep you comfortable and safe.
Q3: How much luggage can I realistically carry on a motorcycle for this trip?
A3: It depends on your motorcycle and luggage setup. Tail bags, saddlebags, and tank bags are common. Aim to pack