Off-road and Motorcycle Routes – How to Prepare for the Journey

The season for motorcycle trips is starting. If you're planning a longer route and want both adventure and off-roading, as well as reliable asphalt roads – start with solid preparation. The right gear and a well-planned route mean not just greater safety but also more fun. Here's how to get ready for your off-road or motorcycle journey!

How to Plan an Off-road or Motorcycle Route?

You don't have to study maps on your own to find the best route – you can use ready-made solutions. What can help you plan your journey? Here are our suggestions!

Trans Euro Trail

For off-road enthusiasts, the Trans Euro Trail offers a perfect solution. These routes pass through some of the most scenic and wild corners of Europe.

The so-called TET includes verified trails that are sure to provide excitement and unforgettable views. The database includes over 51,000 km of motorcycle touring routes across most European countries. You can select the country you're interested in directly from the website.

GPX Studio

If you prefer to plan your motorcycle or off-road route yourself, there are great tools and apps to help. One of them is GPX Studio – an intuitive online platform that lets you draw your route on a map and save it in GPX format. You can then upload this file to your navigation system or mobile app. It’s a great tool if you want full control over your route and specific stops.

RATs (Rally Adventure Tracks)

RATs is a foundation focused on developing legal motorcycle routes that showcase regional beauty while respecting nature. An app is in development to help with planning and exporting GPX files. You can join the RATs community to create and verify trails yourself. As a full member, you gain access to hundreds of thousands of kilometers of off-road routes in Poland.

OsmAnd

OsmAnd is a navigation app based on OpenStreetMap (OSM). It allows for offline map use, as well as displaying topographic data, elevation, and terrain conditions – ideal for remote areas with poor signal. It's a great option for riders who aren’t afraid to leave the pavement.

Google Maps

While often associated with paved roads, Google Maps can be helpful in off-road route planning too. Using Street View and satellite images, you can preview the surroundings of your planned route. When combined with tools like RATs, it helps you determine if a route is legal and suitable for motorcycles.

By using these tools, you gain more control over your trip and can tailor it to your riding style, difficulty level, and preferences.

How to Plan Accommodations on a Motorcycle Trip?

Another crucial part of planning a motorcycle trip – especially a multi-day one – is organizing accommodations. It’s worth deciding in advance where you’ll end each day and how you’ll rest.

You have two basic options: booking in advance or finding places on the go. Each has its advantages – the former offers peace of mind and guaranteed lodging, while the latter provides flexibility and adaptability to road conditions or spontaneous changes. Key things to consider:

• Secure parking or garage – preferably locked, monitored, or within a private property. A motorcycle is both transport and investment – security is key.

• Storage and drying area – after a rainy or muddy day, it's great to have a space to dry your suit, jacket, or boots.

• Proximity to motorcycle services and stores – especially important for off-road trips. If repairs are needed, quick access to tools or spare parts is a lifesaver.

• Food and amenities access – lodging with an on-site restaurant or a nearby store makes things much easier.

• Motorcycle-friendly places – more and more venues advertise as “biker-friendly.” This usually means not just infrastructure tailored to riders, but staff who understand their needs and can offer advice or assistance when needed.

Remember: a good night’s rest means not just comfort – but also safety, recovery, and more joy during the following ride.

What to Pack and What Not to Forget?

Packing for a motorcycle trip – especially off-road – is an art. You need to strike a balance between essentials and unnecessary weight. What should definitely be in your luggage?

Documents, cards, and cash are a must. A waterproof pouch is very practical for off-road trips to keep them safe.

Food and water, all-weather clothing, electronics, navigation tools, first-aid kit, hygiene products, and a tool kit are also must-haves.

Want to learn more? Be sure to check out our guide: Motorcycle Trip – What to Pack and How to Prepare.

Packing smart helps you enjoy your trip without stress or overloading your bike. Think carefully about what you truly need. Remember: less is more – but not at the cost of safety.

How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Off-road Trips with GARDA Equipment?

Preparing your bike for off-road adventures is about more than just mechanics – it's also about safety and riding comfort in tough terrain. Before you hit the trails, make sure your bike is ready for everything: forests, mountains, and gravel roads.

Pay special attention to proper tires, suspension tuning, and the condition of your chain, sprockets, brake pads, and discs. Don’t forget engine protection and other crucial parts. Reliable crash bars, tailored to your bike model, can help.

In our shop, you’ll find engine guards and crash bars designed for brands like Honda and Yamaha. They feature lightweight steel construction, TIG welding, easy installation, and top-quality craftsmanship. Investing in added motorcycle protection is always worth it – and absolutely essential for off-road riding!

A well-prepared bike guarantees a smoother ride, less stress, and greater safety. Off-roading is an adventure – but also a serious challenge. It’s worth facing it fully prepared!