Motorcycle & Trike Touring Tips
There's nothing quite like the experience of touring on a bike, whatever make or model it is, but no bike is better suited to touring than a Goldwing or Trike.
Colin Appleyard staff have enjoyed many a trip with like minded people and have some excellent advice to offer if you're planning on putting a trip together. If you don't fancy doing it solo, get in touch with the Appy Wanderers who organise some great touring trips throughout the year.
We've put together some useful info for you below if you're considering touring on your bike, but you can always get in touch with Barry at our Keighley shop with any questions you may have. He'll be only too happy to help out.
What you should carry on your Goldwing
- First-aid kit
- Tool and bulb kit
- Warning triangle (one per group)
- Reflective vest (for France and Spain)
- Note: this must be worn if on a hard-shoulder (ie. breakdown, birdwatching or otherwise)
Essential Documents
- Driving licence (international if held)
- Motor insurance (showing European cover)
- Vehicle registration document, MOT if required
- Note: all the above documents MUST not be photocopies. Always take a copy of your documents before you set off and leave these copies at home
- EHIC NHS Medical Card (online registration form)
Other useful items
- European breakdown cover
- Medical insurance and travel insurance
- Maps or GPS
- Phrase books
- Credit/debit card PIN numbers
- Euros in cash and travellers cheques
Prepare your bike
- A service before you set off, ask for your brake pads to be checked
- Check your tyres. You must have at least 2mm when leaving Germany
- Ultra seal your tyres
- Take your spare key (don't carry it in the bike)
- If your 'wing is less than 2 years old, carry your service book (for any warranty problems)
Final details
- Carry contact details of your next of kin
- Let someone know if you or your passenger have any medical conditions
- Let someone know if you have any special dietary requirements (so hotels can be informed)
- If you're unsure of anything else, contact our 'wing experts
Here are some links that you mind find useful when buying, insuring or touring on your bike or trike:
- Aire Valley Insurance - Specialist Goldwing Insurance
- Appy Wanderers
- Goldwing Owners Club of Great Britain
- Border Wings
- Lancs & Lakes Wings
- Goldwings North Wales
- Goldwingfacts.com - The website of Steve Saunders
- P&O Ferries

Follow Colin Appleyard