Twincruiser Tours Newsletter
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Bremgarten, April 16, 2024
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Discover the alps with a motorcycle:
Route length and enjoyment
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In 8 to 10 weeks, weather permitting, the first alpine passes will reopen. This is the time motorists have eagerly awaited to discover the Swiss Alps along steep winding roads.
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If you don’t have a driver’s license or want to discover something differently, scroll to the last paragraph*.
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I deliberately don’t call this the start of the motorcycle season, because for me, it's a time where I can enjoy and discover nature with respect. Enjoyment and common sense have something to do with the motorcycle you ride and the planned itinerary. Here are Kurt’s tips:
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Be conscious and plan your day-by-day route very carefully and well ahead. Less is more and it's fun. It doesn’t make sense if you must recover from the exertions for 2-3 days after your motorcycle tour.
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1. Optimal daily distances:
In good weather, around 20º C (68° F), dry road and little traffic, my rule of thumb for the maximum daily distance is:
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- Route mostly on motorways: 550 – 650 kilometers (342–404 miles)
- Route mostly on national roads: 350 – 450 kilometers (217–280 miles)
- Route mostly on country roads: 250 – 350 kilometers (155–217 miles)
- Route mostly in alpine regions with pass roads: 180 – 250 kilometers (112–155 miles)
2. Physical exertion and concentration:
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- Most accidents happen in built-up areas, where the right of way is disregarded, and the second reason is driving too fast.
- Plan regular breaks, about every 1 to 1.5 hours on open roads, more often in the alps. Relax and enjoy the view.
- Always drink something, even if you are not thirsty, preferably mineral water.
- With Twincruiser Tours, no one must prove anything to anyone. If you prefer to ride as if you stole it, go to a racetrack. Switzerland has very stringent laws where the police may take your vehicle away and jail you.
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3. Maintenance and safety:
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After winterization or if you have not used your bike for a certain time, do a thorough check of the motorcycle before the first ride. Check also the tire pressure! The same applies to motorcycle clothing, motorcycle boots and gloves, and helmets. Wear protective equipment even for short distances. Start to ride slowly and get used to the bike again. Remember, drive with foresight and defensively. Motorcyclists are often overlooked.
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4. The Evolution of motorcycles:
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The motorcycle is no longer what it used to be: a cheaper vehicle to go to work and vacation. Today, it is a hobby, which can also be seen in the number of touring models with fairings and side bags. Where is the real biker that used to ride two – three weeks with all his belongings to unknown destinations? They are becoming rare. For that reason, when buying a motorcycle, choose the right one for your purpose. Will you ride alone or with a pillion? Pillion passengers should also be comfortable. What cubic size, power, weight, and seating position. Again, less is more. For mountain passes, a light motorcycle is more manageable and less tiring. Safety? Today, there are motorcycles with ABS, cornering ABS, driver assistance systems, and airbag systems for motorcycling.
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Join a guided tour and be surprised
Would you like to get away without planning anything in advance and be surprised? Have I aroused your curiosity and confidence? Here are a few ideas and suggestions in Switzerland (please click or contact us for your very own personal motorcycle tour for discerning connoisseurs and individualists.
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Perhaps you need reliable and trustworthy information from a local insider about motorcycle tours in Switzerland? Just send us an email.
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*Are you without a driver’s license or would you love to discover Switzerland by train and boat? They are numerous other excellent ways to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps. My much-loved option is to reserve a seat on the Glacier Express train, the Bernina Express train, the Golden Pass Line train, or the Gotthard Panorama Express, a combination of train and boat. These journeys offer spectacular views through picturesque landscapes, charming villages in green valleys and snow-covered mountains. For more information contact me here or visit.
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Enjoy that specific moment, now and here, it will never come again.
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Watch, be aware, rest, enjoy, and have a safe year.
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