Touring Bike Event Route 66: Your Essential Family Adventure

Ready to tackle a Route 66 touring bike event with your family? This guide breaks down how to plan an unforgettable adventure, making it safe, fun, and hassle-free. We’ll cover essential prep, route highlights, and tips for keeping everyone happy on America’s most iconic highway.

So, you’re thinking about hitting the open road, specifically the legendary Route 66, with your family and your touring bike? That’s fantastic! The “Mother Road” offers a tapestry of Americana, quirky attractions, and nostalgic stops that are pure gold for a family road trip. But even with a reliable touring bike, planning a trip like this requires a bit of know-how, especially when you’ve got the whole crew in tow. Don’t let the idea of a long ride with the family intimidate you; with a little preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding adventures you’ll ever have. We’re going to walk through everything you need to know to make your Route 66 touring bike event a smooth, safe, and super fun family experience. Get ready to make some memories!

Your Route 66 Family Touring Bike Adventure: The Big Picture

Taking on Route 66 with your touring bike and family is more than just a ride; it’s a journey through American history and culture. This iconic stretch of road, from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, is packed with roadside attractions, historic diners, and breathtaking landscapes. For a touring bike event, it’s the perfect combination of long, scenic stretches and interesting places to stop and explore.

Why Route 66 is Perfect for a Family Touring Bike Trip

Nostalgia and Americana: Route 66 is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. Think classic diners, vintage gas stations, and iconic motels.
Variety of Attractions: From the Gemini Giant in Illinois to the Grand Canyon (a slight detour but usually worth it!) and the Santa Monica Pier, there’s something to capture everyone’s imagination.
Riding Experience: Touring bikes are built for comfort on long hauls, making them ideal for covering the miles between these unique stops.
Shared Experience: It’s a chance to create lasting family memories, bonding over the journey and the discoveries made along the way.

What Makes a Touring Bike the Right Choice?

Touring motorcycles are essentially designed for long-distance comfort and carrying capacity. They usually boast:

Comfortable Riding Position: Upright ergonomics and plush seating are key for long days in the saddle.
Ample Storage: Saddlebags and top cases are standard, perfect for packing family essentials, snacks, and souvenirs.
Wind Protection: Large fairings and windshields shield both rider and passenger from wind and weather.
Fuel Range: Bigger fuel tanks mean fewer stops, which is a win for everyone.

Key Considerations for a Family Event

Pace: You’re not trying to set speed records. A relaxed pace allows for spontaneous stops and prevents rider and passenger fatigue.
Flexibility: Kids (and adults!) can get restless. Build in extra time for breaks, playtime, and unexpected detours.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety for all riders and passengers. This includes proper gear, bike maintenance, and rider awareness.

Thorough Inspection:
Tires: Check tread depth and tire pressure. Ensure they are suitable for long-distance riding. You can find great guides on tire maintenance from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Brakes: Inspect brake pads and fluid levels. Make sure they’re responsive and effective.
Fluids: Check engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Top up or change as needed.
Lights & Signals: Ensure your headlight, taillight, brake lights, and turn signals are all working perfectly.
Chain/Drive Belt: Adjust and lubricate your chain, or inspect your drive belt for wear.
Battery: Check its age and condition. A weak battery can cause significant headaches on the road.
Tune-Up: If your bike is due, get a professional tune-up. A well-tuned engine is crucial for reliability.
Comfort Adjustments: For long rides with passengers, ensure your seat is comfortable, and consider adding a backrest for the pillion rider. Adjusting handlebar risers can also improve ergonomics.

2. Route Planning: Charting Your Course (Loosely!)

Route 66 is about the journey, not just the destination. While you’ll want a general plan, leave room for spontaneity.

Choose Your Segments: You don’t have to ride the entire 2,448 miles in one go. Decide which sections are most appealing and manageable for your family. Popular segments include the Illinois start, the kitschy attractions of Missouri, the vastness of Oklahoma, the iconic landscapes of Arizona, and the final approach in California.
Identify Key Stops: Research fun and family-friendly attractions along your chosen segments. Think quirky museums, diners with great milkshakes, unique photo ops, and kid-friendly activities.
Accommodation: Book hotels or unique roadside motels in advance, especially during peak season. Consider places with pools – a huge hit with kids after a day of riding!
Daily Mileage: Don’t overschedule. Aim for 200-300 miles per day, especially with passengers. This allows for plenty of stops and prevents the riding from becoming the only focus.

3. Packing Essentials: More Than Just Luggage

Beyond your riding gear, think about what makes a family trip comfortable and fun.

Riding Gear: Helmets, jackets, gloves, pants, and sturdy footwear for everyone. Ensure gear fits properly and is weather-appropriate.
Comfort Items:
Snacks and Water: Keep energy levels up and hydration consistent.
First-Aid Kit: Essential for any trip. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Entertainment: Books, portable games, or audiobooks for downtime.
Power Banks: To keep phones and other devices charged for photos and navigation.
Navigation Tools: GPS device or smartphone app, plus physical maps as a backup. Consider a RAM Mount for secure phone mounting on your bike.
Basic Tool Kit: A small kit with essentials like tire repair patches, a portable air compressor, wrenches, and zip ties can be a lifesaver. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has resources on basic motor vehicle maintenance.

4. Family Briefing: Getting Everyone on Board

Talk to your family about the trip. Explain what to expect, the importance of safety, and how they can contribute.

Safety Talk: Discuss hand signals for communication, what to do if they feel uncomfortable or need a break, and the importance of staying secure on the bike.
Involve Them in Planning: Let them pick a few attractions or diners they’re excited about. This builds anticipation and ownership.
Realistic Expectations: Explain that it’s a long trip, and there will be sitting for periods. Reassure them that there will be plenty of fun breaks and opportunities to stretch their legs.

Start of Route 66 Sign (Chicago): A classic photo opportunity to mark the beginning of your journey.
Gemini Giant (Wilmington): A colossal statue that’s an iconic Route 66 roadside attraction.
Standard Oil Gas Station (Odell): A beautifully preserved 1930s gas station that feels like a step back in time.

Missouri: Caves, Curves, and Old Iron

Meramec Caverns (Stanton): Explore subterranean wonders! This is a great way to cool off and experience something completely different.
Chain of Rocks Bridge (Madison/St. Louis): Historic bridge that’s now a pedestrian and bike path – a unique experience if you can safely park and explore it.
Cuba, MO: Known as the “Route 66 Mural City,” it offers vibrant art and a charming small-town feel.

Blue Whale of Catoosa: A quirky, colorful whale structure that’s a beloved photo op for families.
The Golden Driller (Tulsa): Another giant statue, this one a tribute to Oklahoma’s oil industry.
Restored Gas Stations: Oklahoma has some of the best-preserved classic gas stations along Route 66, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

Arizona: Grandeur and Ghost Towns

Petrified Forest National Park: See ancient wood turned to stone and explore colorful badlands. It’s a surreal landscape.
Winslow, Arizona: Stand on the corner made famous by The Eagles’ song “Take It Easy.”
Seligman, Arizona: Often called the “Birthplace of Historic Route 66,” it’s a vibrant town full of classic cars, quirky shops, and authentic diners. This is a must-stop for the full Route 66 experience.

Oatman, Arizona (just before crossing into California): A former mining town where wild burros roam the streets. It’s a fun, slightly wild detour your kids will love.
Santa Monica Pier: The official end of Route 66. A perfect place to celebrate your arrival with games, an amusement park, and ocean views.

Communication is Key: Establish clear signals for stopping, needing a break, or if the passenger feels any discomfort. Use an intercom system if possible – it’s a game-changer for longer rides.
Frequent Breaks: Stop every 60-90 minutes. Even a 15-minute break to stretch, grab a drink, and explore a roadside curiosity makes a huge difference.
Passenger Comfort: Ensure your passenger is securely seated, has enough legroom, and is dressed appropriately. A good backrest is invaluable.
Vary Your Speed: Smooth acceleration and braking are essential. Avoid jerky movements that can unbalance your passenger.

Be Prepared: Carry rain gear for everyone, even if the forecast looks clear. Weather can change rapidly.
Adjust Your Pace: Slow down in rain, high winds, or on rougher road surfaces. Prioritize safety over speed.
Stay Hydrated and Fueled: Especially in hot climates like Arizona and California. Pack plenty of water and plan meal stops. Don’t let fuel levels get too low between towns, as services can be sparse in some areas.

Engaging Kids on the Ride

“I Spy” Games: Classic road trip entertainment that works well on a bike.
Route 66 Bingo: Create bingo cards with common Route 66 sights (diners, vintage signs, specific car models).
Storytelling: Share stories about Route 66 history or create your own adventure tales.
Souvenir Stops: Let them pick out small, manageable souvenirs at shops that catch their eye. This gives them something to look forward to.

Essential Route 66 Family Touring Bike Event Gear Table

Here’s a quick rundown of must-have gear, broken down by category.

Legal and Safety Considerations for Your Trip

Riding a motorcycle with family requires a heightened awareness of safety and legal requirements.

Passenger Laws and Requirements

Age Restrictions: Some states have minimum age requirements for motorcycle passengers. Always check the laws for the states you’ll be traveling through.
Proper Seating: Passengers must be able to properly grip the bike and place their feet on the footrests.
Helmet Laws: Most states require helmet use for both riders and passengers. Know the laws in each state and adhere to them strictly. The Insurance Information Institute provides a good overview of helmet laws by state.

Pre-Ride Checks (T-CLOCS): A simple acronym for remembering your daily checks:
Tires and Wheels
Controls
Lights and Electrics
Oil and Other Fluids
Chassis (frame, suspension, chain)
Stand
Defensive Riding: Always assume other drivers don’t see you. Maintain a safe following distance, be aware of blind spots, and anticipate potential hazards.
Road Hazards: Be vigilant for potholes, gravel, oil slicks, and other debris, especially on older stretches of Route 66 that may not be as well-maintained as modern interstates.
Visibility: Wear bright colors and consider adding reflective tape to your gear and bike to increase your visibility to other road users.

Emergency Contacts: Ensure everyone in the family knows emergency contact information.
Roadside Assistance: Have a plan for roadside assistance. Many motorcycle insurance policies include this, or you can join a service like AAA.
Communication Devices: Fully charged cell phones are vital. Consider a satellite communication device if you plan to travel through areas with spotty cell service.

Route 66 Family Event FAQ

Here are some common questions beginners have about planning a Route 66 touring bike event with their family.

Q1: How much time should I budget for a Route 66 family trip on a touring bike?