Adventure Rider Radio RAW Motorcycle Roundtable Talks

This month on RAW, we’re talking about how travelers around the world are using different communication tools—from WhatsApp to Signal—and how tech like drones, SAT devices, and new gear is shaping the way we explore.

🔗 Show Notes & Links: Find photos, links, and resources related to this episode on our website at Adventure Rider Radio.

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Fear is a natural part of adventure motorcycling, but how we handle it can make all the difference. On this episode of RAW, the panel digs into the fears many riders face—riding solo, tackling tough terrain, getting lost, dealing with mechanical issues and more—and how to manage them. We’ll talk about when fear protects you versus when it holds you back, how to build confidence through training and preparation, and the mental trick...

Motorcycle travel involves eating, sleeping, and finding a place to “go”—the true trifecta of adventure. Sometimes, choices feel like a gamble, ranging from gourmet dining to street food that might challenge you later, and from luxurious hotel rooms to campsites that turn out to be gravel pits. Bathrooms? You’ll encounter everything from lavish bidets to bushes that test your creativity. Eat, sleep, poop. It’s messy, unpredictable,...

For many people, a long motorcycle trip or a journey around the world is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It may be their first adventure, or it could be the only trip they ever get to take. While many are content to go solo, some prefer to travel with a partner—whether for companionship, security, or other reasons. This partner could be a good friend, a relative, or a life partner. Or they might need to find someone to join them ...

There’s something about motorcycle travel that seems to turn back the clock—or at least makes us feel like it. Whether it’s the thrill of discovering new places, the focus required to stay in the moment, or the way even small victories on a journey boost confidence, travel has a way of shifting our perspective. If you’ve ever felt lighter, sharper, or more energized after time away, you’re not imagining it. There’s more to the bene...

Motorcycle travel can be exhilarating, but many riders fall into common pitfalls that can dampen their adventures. In this episode, the RAW panel discusses motorcycle travellers' top mistakes and how to avoid them.

ARR RAW round-table discussions with motorcycle adventure travellers - featuring Grant Johnson, Sam Manicom, Shirley Hardy-Rix, Brian Rix, Michelle Lamphere and Jim Martin.

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In this episode of RAW, the panel will debunk seven common myths about motorcycle travel that often hold riders back from embarking on their adventures. From the misconception that you need a large, expensive bike, to the belief that solo or female travel is unsafe, we'll break down each myth and explain why they’re unfounded.

Links: Photos and links related to this episode can be found in the show notes on Adventure Rider Radio.

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This month’s episode dives into essential tips for safeguarding your bike and gear from theft while on a motorcycle trip. Plus, our panel shares gripping tales of battling brutal wind conditions and the hard-earned lessons from those intense rides.

ARR RAW round-table discussions with motorcycle adventure travellers - featuring Grant Johnson, Sam Manicom, Shirley Hardy-Rix, Brian Rix, Michelle Lamphere and Jim Martin.

RAW LISTENER ...

Why do motorcycle travelers often tell stories about going through North and South America, Africa and Australia, but hardly anything about communist countries such as Russia and China. Is it because of restrictions, border crossings, culture? And next up, comfort hacks. Do you have any unusual or unique practices for long-distance travel comfort? Perhaps you've learned some things through experiencing mental or physical discomfort...

On this episode of RAW, we will discuss getting second chances for our past trips and riding in areas with heavy traffic and large vehicles. Given what you now know, is there a trip or part of a trip you’ve taken that you would do differently if given the chance? If so, what changes would you make and why? Furthermore, riding dynamics change significantly in areas where the size of vehicles determines the right of way and traffic r...

In this episode, we delve into customs and etiquette across different countries, highlighting how misunderstandings can lead to embarrassment or unintended offense. The RAW panel offers guidance for travelers to specific destinations, sharing personal anecdotes and providing tips to steer clear of etiquette mishaps that might leave a negative impression.

Photos and links related to this episode can be found in the show notes. 

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Travelling can sometimes be challenging when finding necessities, especially in foreign countries where options may differ from what you are used to or might not be easily available. Common concerns include finding food you enjoy and managing allergies. Another important aspect of motorcycle travel is ensuring quality fuel, maintaining oil and filters, and dealing with tire issues. In this episode of RAW, the panel discusses how to...

ARR RAW round-table discussions with motorcycle adventure travellers - featuring Grant Johnson, Sam Manicom, Shirley Hardy-Rix, Brian Rix, Michelle Lamphere and Jim Martin.

Bad weather can be scary even when you’re close to home, but what about when you’re on a motorcycle trip? How prepared can you be? What are some things you can do to prevent finding yourself in a situation caused by bad or severe weather? And if you can’t do any...

Many motorcyclists dream about running off on an adventure that lasts for weeks, months, or even years. The thrill and anticipation leading up to the journey is what they focus on. But, the darker side is contemplating what will happen when they return. How will they reintegrate into society and work? What will it be like to return to their old life with a new perspective?

Photos and links related to this episode can be found in th...

Being self-reliant can be likened to having insurance—an ability to take care of oneself if things go awry. There's nothing inherently wrong with accepting help; it's a human instinct, and in the context of motorcycle travel, assistance often leads to friendship and discovery. However, it raises the question of wisdom and responsibility to travel as a dependent, relying too much on others. In this episode of RAW, we discuss ways to...

Ideas for simpler meals, tips for less food waste and what to do with leftovers while camping on the road. And how to protect your gear when you want to leave your motorcycle for a few hours to go for a hike, hang out at the beach or explore a city or town. All this and more - join the RAW for valuable tips, great conversation and some laughs.

ARR RAW round-table discussions with motorcycle adventu...

Two important things to consider when planning your trip are how you’re going to finance your adventure and how to best equip yourself to handle an emergency. While it's not impossible to fund yourself while travelling on a motorcycle, it does require careful planning, budgeting, and adaptability. Many travellers have successfully navigated expenses and income by being resourceful and flexible. The...

In this episode, the RAW panel explores the common mistakes made by motorcycle travelers, such as riding beyond their ability and failing to interact with the locals. Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner, understanding and learning from these mistakes will help you ensure that your next two-wheeled adventure is both exhilarating and secure. ARR RAW round-table discussions with motorcycle adventure travellers - featu...

Have you ever found yourself in a travel situation where, in hindsight, different choices could have been made? During a long motorcycle trip, have you ever experienced regrets that left a lasting impact, prompting you to reflect on how they influenced your journey? Whether it was a decision not made, an opportunity missed due to last-minute changes in your plans, or a choice that led you down an unexpected path, these moments of r...