The IBA originally certified only extreme rides, but in 1993, decided to add some shorter rides based on popular demand.
The Saddle Sore 1000 and Bunburner 1500
The Saddle Sore 1000 is a day ride that requires riders to go 1000 miles in 24 hours. Its demanding and pace has to be maintained. The same thing is required for the Bunburner were a rider goes 1500 miles in 36 hours. These trips are like hit and runs and take some preparation.
Proper Gear for Riding Motorcycles Long Distances
Riding cross country requires that a rider be prepared for everything. The road may turn up surprises, equipment failure, and fatigue. Proper gear includes layered clothing and protection to include as a minimum leather gloves, leather jacket (or other protective touring jackets) and a full face helmet. Sometimes riding with a half helmet is recommended because wind pressure might cause ear aches after wearing a helmet all day.
Wear Glasses and Carry Chap-stick and Sun Screen
Regardless, this equipment is basic. Other gear required is rain gear, a rag for cleaning shields and most likely a riding suite or a pair of comfortable chaps. Glasses are needed for night and day riding. Keep the lips from being chapped and protect the skin by carrying chap-stick and sunscreen. A reflective vest for night riding may be purchased if there is not reflective material on the riders jacket. Reflective tape on the helmet will also increase visibility. Besides having proper equipment, riders need to know their motorcycle or the motorcycle they are going to ride.
Choosing a Motorcyle That will Enhance Chances of Certification
A rider may choose to ride a 1950 Norton and make it in the allotted time. This would require a few modifications to the original, but might be possible. Realistically, a full dress touring motorcycle would be the best option. Saddle bags allow a person to pack clothes and food, while keeping them dry. Full dressers also have radios for entertainment and for talking to other motorcyclists. Knowing the motorcycle engine and how its geared is good practice so that a person will be ready for how the bike acts on different roads.
Know the Motorcycle Before the Trip
Also, there are little things to keep in mind. For instance, a Gold Wing is lighter weight and aerodynamic compared to a Harley. Harley motorcycles are also air cooled, meaning if a rider is having to walk the bike in low gears due to construction delays or unexpected traffic, the heat on the leg from the engine is going to be felt through the chaps and the jeans.
How to Keep From Fatiguing on the Road
Fatigue is going set in and when it does, riding will become more dangerous. Riders should plan their routes and keep to a schedule. The most important factor here is to schedule rests and times to eat and drink. It may not seem like dehydration would occur, but it does. Riding against elements and heat off the pavements will dehydrate a rider.
Darker Clothing Will Absorb Heat While on the Road
Also, dark leathers or Gortex jackets with inserts will absorb sunlight and expend energy from the rider. Water and sunscreen is a requirement not to be ignored. Also, learning how to stretch on the bike and stretching when off the bike will keep muscles from tensing or going to sleep. Fatique will delay decision making and if a rider starts to have trouble with reaction times, they should stop.
Certification Documentation Requirements for the IBA
The IBA requires that the start and end of rides be witnessed by a police officer or another neutral person and has forms online for downloading. The IBA also requires that the route and miles are documented by logging the miles and associating the miles with stops along the route by providing copies of receipts for fuel. At the end of the ride, all documentation needs to be submitted to the IBA with their required fee.
Preparation Before the Ride
Safety is important and checking the bike before the trip is the best way to deter problems. This includes oil and other fluids, tires and electrical connections. Also, if the factory seat is not as comfortable as a rider may want then purchasing and installing a Mustang seat or the like may increase rider comfort for the distance.
Keep a Tool Pack and First Aid Kit in the Saddle Bags
Keeping a tool pack and a safety pack in the saddle bags is a must, not an option. A rider should carry a cell phone and if riding alone, post their route for friends to track or at least let a contact person know the route and check in with that person along the way. Choose a route that allows the mileage to be obtained. Also keep in mind that major highways will have restaurants, tolls and hotels. Cash and credit must be carried for whatever situation.
The IBA is Not Encouraging Racing
IBA will not post mileage in excess of 1800 miles in a 24 hour period. This is a skills test and should be viewed as one. For the safety of the rider and others, apply AMA rules. Have current insurance and be considerate. If a rider breaks down mechanically or physically, then the certificate may be obtained on another ride.
Contact the IBA for More Information
For more information contact the Iron Butt Association at www.ironbutt.com. For information on rider fatigue and how to prevent it, read this interesting paper. Maintenance tips may be found at www.cyclemaintenance.com. Consult individual physicians before riding long distances. Consult the American Motorcyclist Association for motorcycle helmet laws in individual states.
Sources:
http://www.ama-cycle.org/
http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/streetsurvival/prevent_motorcycle_fatigue/index.html
Tobey Strauch - I graduated from Iowa State University with a Masters in Industrial Systems Engineering. I have traveled around the world to England, ...
