Whether you're new to motorcycling, new to group riding, or you’ve got some miles under your belt, here's a list of "do's and don'ts" to help you get as many “Smiles per Mile” as possible. These tips are good to follow if you're riding with friends or on a larger charity ride.

Practice Makes Perfect

At least a week before your trip, do a test pack if you’re still in the “figure it out” phase with your bike. You might need to change things around two or three times before you get the balance you’re looking for.

If you have the saddlebag liners, I highly recommend putting those in your bags first, then stuff your stuff in them. That's because you'll most likely…

Hands down, there is no better way to experience this b-e-a-utiful country of ours than from the seat of a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle. (Or any motorcycle -I'm just a little biased!)

Sure there's riding to and from work, but now you've decided to take things a step further and have planned to take the show on the road. Most Excellent!

To help you prepare, I've put together this list plus a few tips I've learned the hard way.

For your vacation you can get on a plane and be at your destination in a matter of hours. But when you travel via Motorcycle you really get to the heart of where you're going. Turns out a Motorcycle is a way better way to see the world.

We have several large continents with lots and lots of roads. Those roadways provide access to popular tourist spots, charming towns, beautiful back-roads and hidden gems you won't see from the air.

Here's seven reasons why I think a Motorcycle Road Trip is the best way to travel and really get to know the country: