Greetings, fellow adventurers! Today, I’m thrilled to share the exciting news of an upcoming motorcycle trip that I, along with three of my closest friends from the UK, are embarking on later in July 2023. Our journey will take us from the heart of Great Britain to the captivating landscapes of France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. Strap on your helmets, as we dive into the preparations and my plans on how to document our thrilling expedition!

Planning the Itinerary:
Before setting off on any grand adventure, meticulous planning is crucial. We gathered around a table, drunk some Guinness, poured over maps and countless online resources. After much deliberation and fuelled by our shared passion for the open road and of course the Guinness , we decided on a route that would take us through France via the Channel Tunnel, then onward to Germany, Switzerland, and finally, to the Italian Alps. Each country promises its own unique blend of culture, cuisine, and breath taking vistas, all of which I plan to share with you.

Gear and Motorcycle Maintenance:
Ensuring the safety and reliability of our motorcycles is of utmost importance. We meticulously inspected our bikes, well the other guys did, I actually sent my Tiger 900 Rally Pro to Staffordshire Triumph to perform its 12,000 mile service. I also got the guys at Triumph to add a new rear Continental TKC70 Rocks tyre, chain and sprockets for good measure. Additionally, I’ve invested in some new high-quality riding gear, including a Oxford Arizona vented jackets and trousers to cope with the current European heat wave. Whilst I was at it, I also got a new set of Richa Rain Warrior Waterproof Motorcycle Over Jacket & Trousers , but I have put in a request for it not to rain during the trip, so I hope the weather gods were listing, especially after this weekend’s Lightweight Adventure Festival, where I got extremely wet. (You’ll here more about this in another blog). So, be it hot, cold or wet my comfort and protection should be taken care of during our long hours on the road.

Researching Local Laws and Regulations:
To avoid any unexpected surprises, I’ve delved into a few other posts about the traffic laws, regulations, and driving requirements of each country on our itinerary. It’s essential to respect and adhere to local customs, speed limits, and parking regulations to ensure a stress-free journey. If I can just get all the guys to drive on the correct side of the road then we should be all set.

Accommodation:
Finding comfortable and motorcycle-friendly accommodations along our route is key to a pleasant trip. However, we have only booked a hotel for the first night, this will give us the utmost flexibility to adjust our route on the fly. We did scour various online platforms for that first night’s accommodation and the consensus was to stay in Charleville Mezieres in France, about 3 hours from Calais.

Documenting the Journey:
Now, here comes the most exciting part! I’ve decided to share our exhilarating experiences through a regular blog and social media. I’ll be carrying a compact, waterproof camera (GoPro) and a trusty smartphone to capture the stunning vistas and will document our daily escapades.

As the designated “scribe” of our group, I plan to provide vivid descriptions, share anecdotes, and include plenty of captivating photographs to bring our journey to life. My (our) blog will serve as a virtual road map, inviting readers to join us in spirit as we traverse some of Europe’s mesmerising landscapes.

Conclusion:
Embarking on a motorcycle trip through Europe is an exhilarating adventure that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a thirst for exploration. Our journey from the UK to France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy promises a kaleidoscope of cultures, sights, and unforgettable memories.

As I prepare to hit the road with my intrepid companions, I’m excited to document our journey and share it with all of you. So, strap on your helmets, as we embark on an extraordinary expedition filled with open roads, breath taking scenery, and unforgettable experiences!

If you have any questions or specific details you’d like me to include in the blog, feel free to let me know. Stay tuned for regular updates from the road. Until then, happy trails and keep the rubber side down!