Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Regional Forums > Europe
Europe Topics specific to Western and Eastern Europe, from UK to the Russian border, and south-east to Turkey.
Photo by Hendi Kaf, in Cambodia

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Hendi Kaf,
in Cambodia



Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 5 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
First travel

Hey everyone !

I'm not sure if there is a any big activity on this forum , but here it comes.

I'm a youngster you see , I like adventure , so I decided to go on a motorcycle trip this august. But I'm having one of the usual problems : unsificiant space.

I drive a ninja 250R. me and my girlfriend sit on it so besides being a rather small bike it is also limited in space. I got a backpack that fits my small tent so that isn't the problem. But I also need to take 2 sleeping bags with us ! :s. I have a tank bag at my disposal, But besides 2 sleeping bags and 1 tent what else do I need to start? Some drinks , small medicin bag , ?

I'm goin for X amount . Somewhere between 3 days and 1 month , As far as my money takes me. ( any tips to save money while on a trip ) ?

Cheers to anyone that might be able to give me a good answer =).
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 5 Jun 2012
jkrijt's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Netherlands
Posts: 639
Quote:
Originally Posted by sonny91be View Post
I'm not sure if there is a any big activity on this forum
Yes, there is.

Quote:
Originally Posted by sonny91be View Post
I drive a ninja 250R. me and my girlfriend sit on it so besides being a rather small bike it is also limited in space. I got a backpack that fits my small tent so that isn't the problem. But I also need to take 2 sleeping bags with us ! :s. I have a tank bag at my disposal, But besides 2 sleeping bags and 1 tent what else do I need to start? Some drinks , small medicin bag , ?
There are plenty of stories on this Forum about people riding around on small bikes like: http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...d-europe-61328
Just check out the posts on this forum
I myself have been from the Netherlands to Switzerland on a small 125cc bike when I was much younger. I used saddlebags over the seat, a tankbag and a luggage rack on the back of the bike.

Sections of this forum that may have answers to your questions are:
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...ints-and-tips/
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/get...-stories-blogs
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...-all-clothing/
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...pment-reviews/
__________________
Jan Krijtenburg

My bikes are a Honda GoldWing GL1200 and a Harley-Davidson FXD Dyna Super Glide

My personal homepage with trip reports: https://www.krijtenburg.nl/
YouTube channel (that I do together with one of my sons): motormobilist.nl
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 5 Jun 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Isle of Lewis
Posts: 153
Basic info

If you could give us a wee bit more info.
This is a world wide club so your posts are seen by people on all continents.
If you tell us where you are and where you hope to go, we The Hubb comunity, can give you specific advise.
Travelers have been useing smaller bikes than yours for overland trips so don't let that put you off.
Good luck on your travels.

to the Hubb.
Rory
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 5 Jun 2012
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 619
No Backpack.

Just one point: I don't think a backpack of any size or weight at all is a good idea when travelling on a bike. In no time at all it'll be painful. Lindsay.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 5 Jun 2012
jkrijt's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Netherlands
Posts: 639
Quote:
Originally Posted by Linzi View Post
Just one point: I don't think a backpack of any size or weight at all is a good idea when travelling on a bike. In no time at all it'll be painful. Lindsay.
And with a backpack, the weight of your lugage is way to high. Saddlebags will put the center of gravity lower and that is much better for the handling of your bike.
__________________
Jan Krijtenburg

My bikes are a Honda GoldWing GL1200 and a Harley-Davidson FXD Dyna Super Glide

My personal homepage with trip reports: https://www.krijtenburg.nl/
YouTube channel (that I do together with one of my sons): motormobilist.nl
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 6 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
Quote:
Originally Posted by jkrijt View Post
Yes, there is.



There are plenty of stories on this Forum about people riding around on small bikes like: http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...d-europe-61328
Just check out the posts on this forum
I myself have been from the Netherlands to Switzerland on a small 125cc bike when I was much younger. I used saddlebags over the seat, a tankbag and a luggage rack on the back of the bike.

Sections of this forum that may have answers to your questions are:
TRAVEL Hints and Tips - The HUBB
Travel Stories/Blogs | Horizons Unlimited
Camping Equipment and all Clothing - The HUBB
Equipment Reviews - The HUBB
Thanks a lot I'll certainly will read the blogs from goldhaze ! and check the other links too !
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 6 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rory799 View Post
If you could give us a wee bit more info.
This is a world wide club so your posts are seen by people on all continents.
If you tell us where you are and where you hope to go, we The Hubb comunity, can give you specific advise.
Travelers have been useing smaller bikes than yours for overland trips so don't let that put you off.
Good luck on your travels.

to the Hubb.
Rory
So I live in belgium , And where I'm going too I haven't decided yet.
Probably not too far, driving a bit in germany maybe? I gotta find some specific points I want to see and use as checkpoints

And I'll be using mainly my tankbag , backpack , that's it xD
I'm not gonna buy any fancy storing rack's for my bike to put on ( not that much money as a student ), and I'm not hoping I need that much space.

1 Disadvantage : LAck of space behind my back/. Normally I can store some goodies with straps on my second saddle ( for a passanger ) But I'm actually gonna take my GF with me :s ..
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 6 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
Quote:
Originally Posted by jkrijt View Post
And with a backpack, the weight of your lugage is way to high. Saddlebags will put the center of gravity lower and that is much better for the handling of your bike.
I'm not going to spend money on buying that now => I dropped my motorcycle in january with the freezing weather in belgium , need to work to get some money to actually fully fix the bike ( some fenders still dmg'd ) .. so no fancy buying stuff.

I've got a good motorcycle backpack ( not big at all ) On there I can fit my tent .. and besides that, I got a tank bag which is very spacious ..
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 6 Jun 2012
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 619
Luggage.

Hi, for what it's worth I'd expect you to give up on the backpack idea out on the road pretty quickly. If so, bear in mind this. Throw-overs on the back of a small bike work their way backwards as would any lump put there, so strap it down and strap it so it won't roll back over the rear lights. I'd suggest taking straps for this incase you decide to try strapping it onto the bike.

Go for a trial ride of 5 km to see if it works as you intend it to. Have fun, Lindsay.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 6 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
Quote:
Originally Posted by Linzi View Post
Hi, for what it's worth I'd expect you to give up on the backpack idea out on the road pretty quickly. If so, bear in mind this. Throw-overs on the back of a small bike work their way backwards as would any lump put there, so strap it down and strap it so it won't roll back over the rear lights. I'd suggest taking straps for this incase you decide to try strapping it onto the bike.

Go for a trial ride of 5 km to see if it works as you intend it to. Have fun, Lindsay.
I'm really enjoying the fast responds ( Didn't expect the responds ot be so active ) .

Euh , I can't quite follow you?
You advice to not take a backpack but rather then using a back pack strap it on my rear saddle? My girlfriend is coming along . So I cannot strap it on my saddle? IF you ment it otherwise please clarify it a bit more .. I don't really understand fully what you ment to say... Thanks !
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 7 Jun 2012
BruceP's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: St Helens
Posts: 763
Quote:
Originally Posted by sonny91be View Post
I'm really enjoying the fast responds ( Didn't expect the responds ot be so active ) .

Euh , I can't quite follow you?
You advice to not take a backpack but rather then using a back pack strap it on my rear saddle? My girlfriend is coming along . So I cannot strap it on my saddle? IF you ment it otherwise please clarify it a bit more .. I don't really understand fully what you ment to say... Thanks !
On the backpack point, you have a small bike with a pillion. Unless the pillion is wearing the back pack then that is a no-goer.

Please listen to the advice you are getting here, backpacks are not good.

However, if you do insist on taking a backpack, have a cheap rack put on the bike (you can always find someone to cut down and fit a "scrap" one for very little cost. You can then put your tent on the rack, and then the pillion can wear the back pack and rest the weight on the rack.

But saddle bags are better option than a back pack.. Something like this ?
Leather Motorcycle Throw over Saddle Bags Saddlebags Panniers Pair | eBay

Cheap items *can* be found.

But also think about pillion comfort, they do not want to sit on straps.

And pack light. You do not need a lot of clothes, just wash often. (Max underwear IMO is 4 pairs).

My wife and I went across the USA with just a tank bag and a ventura rack/bag. (Ok, no tent for the 1st 5 weeks).

Back in '96 we went round France for 2 weeks on a GS550 with *far* more stuff (tent (back rack), tank bag, saddle bags *and* back pack).
__________________
--

http://www.ytc1.co.uk
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 7 Jun 2012
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 619
Backpack.

Hi, I think your modern small bike must be smaller at the rear than the '79 Kawasaki 400 twin that I referred to. OK, if you have to use your bike with the two of you I guess you can only: Use a tank bag, girlfriend use a small bum bag and sit on a pair of soft throw-overs.

To cut down on luggage to the max you need only spare socks, undies and T shirts, washing kit and tiny towel plus money. Tents etc are out if you travel really light, then it's backpackers, youth hostels, Formula 1 hotels and CouchSurfing – The world’s largest travel community or a HU community to find help.

I suspect a small, temporary rack really would be a good idea as making a mess of loading a bike can kill. Ciao, Lindsay.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 7 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
Quote:
Originally Posted by BruceP View Post
On the backpack point, you have a small bike with a pillion. Unless the pillion is wearing the back pack then that is a no-goer.

Please listen to the advice you are getting here, backpacks are not good.

However, if you do insist on taking a backpack, have a cheap rack put on the bike (you can always find someone to cut down and fit a "scrap" one for very little cost. You can then put your tent on the rack, and then the pillion can wear the back pack and rest the weight on the rack.

But saddle bags are better option than a back pack.. Something like this ?
Leather Motorcycle Throw over Saddle Bags Saddlebags Panniers Pair | eBay

Cheap items *can* be found.

But also think about pillion comfort, they do not want to sit on straps.

And pack light. You do not need a lot of clothes, just wash often. (Max underwear IMO is 4 pairs).

My wife and I went across the USA with just a tank bag and a ventura rack/bag. (Ok, no tent for the 1st 5 weeks).

Back in '96 we went round France for 2 weeks on a GS550 with *far* more stuff (tent (back rack), tank bag, saddle bags *and* back pack).
The backpack is a very light one. It will contain some small goodies like underwear a gps some socks a camera etc .. ( small capacity ). the tent will be fitted on the backpack ( 3kgs total for tent weight ) Since my Girlfriend is also riding on my bike I do not have the option of a free pillion. However , now that I know what these saddlebags are ( done some research ) I might get one of those.

Can anyone help me in what brand is good at this ? Are these saddlebags also universial on most motorcycles? Thanks by advance
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 7 Jun 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Posts: 16
Quote:
Originally Posted by Linzi View Post
Hi, I think your modern small bike must be smaller at the rear than the '79 Kawasaki 400 twin that I referred to. OK, if you have to use your bike with the two of you I guess you can only: Use a tank bag, girlfriend use a small bum bag and sit on a pair of soft throw-overs.

To cut down on luggage to the max you need only spare socks, undies and T shirts, washing kit and tiny towel plus money. Tents etc are out if you travel really light, then it's backpackers, youth hostels, Formula 1 hotels and CouchSurfing – The world’s largest travel community or a HU community to find help.

I suspect a small, temporary rack really would be a good idea as making a mess of loading a bike can kill. Ciao, Lindsay.
Wow this couchsurfing seems very interesting if you ask me !

Thanks for the advice I already figured I could not take a lot .. as you mentioned

One other thing. PLEASE tell me how to wash your clothes with on the road stuff. I read it so many times but I'm a young guy from 21 and I never done the wash at my house .. How to do it ? and does it take long ?
Or how did you do it on your journey? ( like at evening before going to sleep .. ? )

Cheers !
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 7 Jun 2012
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Barnsley (Tarn)
Posts: 126
I take quick drying travel t-shirts and a tube of travel wash like this
Travel Wash: Amazon.co.uk: Health & Beauty

hope this helps

Dave
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Adventure Travel Film Festival Australia - Bright Vic 24-26 Feb 2012 Adventure Travel Film Festival Australia HU Travellers Meetings - Australia 23 28 Nov 2012 07:04
Has the internet spoilt 'Adventure' travel? Fern The HUBB PUB 6 7 Mar 2012 15:56
2012 Inspirational Travel Literature Awards - Nominate now mattcbf600 The HUBB PUB 2 15 Feb 2012 16:49
Global Giving Field visitor as you travel jcravens Make a Difference 0 11 Nov 2011 21:53

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

25 years of HU Events
Be sure to join us for this huge milestone!

ALL Dates subject to change.

2025 Confirmed Events:

Virginia: April 24-27
Queensland is back! May 2-5
Ecuador June 13-15
Germany Summer: May 29-June 1
CanWest: July 10-13
Switzerland: Date TBC
Ecuador: Date TBC
Romania: Date TBC
Austria: Sept. 11-14
California: September 18-21
France: September 19-21
Germany Autumn: Oct 30-Nov 2

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

Adventurous Bikers – We've got all your Hygiene & Protection needs SORTED! Powdered Hair & Body Wash, Moisturising Cream Insect Repellent, and Moisturising Cream Sunscreen SPF50. ESSENTIAL | CONVENIENT | FUNCTIONAL.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 01:45.