On the long list of “important things for successful and enjoyable motorcycle riding” is your physical endurance. All prods toward maintaining strength, flexibility, an agility through physical training aside, this post is about staying hydrated.
The hours and miles can slip by quite quickly on the bike, and before you know it, the combination of excitement, heat, air circulation, and not stopping enough to sip from a water bottle can have you physically dehydrated. As any physician would tell you: Being dehydrated slows your mental and physical reactions, and adds to the number of factors that could lead you to injury.
In comes the “Hydration Pack,” and what might be a motorcycle rider’s best friend. As reviewed in the video above, brands like “Camelbak” are making what is essentially a backpack with a 2-3 liter rubber water bladder inside. Once on your back, a hose drapes over your shoulder, and with one quick reach of your left hand, you’re staying hydrated while your riding your motorcycle! A few key tips before buying one:
- Keep in mind, these come in different sizes depending on how much extra storage space you’d like beyond the water bladder. Perfect for storing passports, cash, extra gloves, or whatever, keep in mind that much of this space will disappear once the water bladder is full.
- If you insist on having some kind of flavor or electrolytes with your water, don’t just start adding sodas, energy drinks, or sports drinks to the water bladder. Once sunlight hits this and your drink warms up, bacteria can grow quickly and a cause diarrhea or your own bladder infection. Instead, special tablets and powders are available by companies like www.nuun.com that offer flavor and nutrients that will upgrade your fresh water.
- As is with many things we buy, don’t “go cheap” on this one. A low-grade, low-cost, “off brand” hydration pack will either have torn seams or a leaking water bladder before you know it. Buy a good one from the start and depend on it for many years to come.
Enjoy our video review of one Camelbak model and contact us any time about which pack might best serve you on your upcoming motorcycle tour or motorbike rental!
