Are you a motodromomaniac? If so, you’re not likely to find a cure. You’re just going to have to find ways to satisfy your cravings, and treatment could mean long days on unfamiliar roads in faraway lands. To prepare yourself mentally and physically (and to find out exactly what a motodromomaniac is), I suggest you turn to The Doctor.

The only motorcyclist known to have circumnavigated the globe solo four times, Dr. Gregory W. Frazier is an incurable addict. His latest book, Motorcycle Touring: Everything You Need to Know, is sure to lure other riders into touring abroad. For the most part, however, the good doctor prefers to feed his hunger alone. While his book offers advice for traveling with fellow riders or a passenger, Greg leans heavily towards riding solo as a means of fulfilling your goals. He’s not a big fan of guided tours, either, or of people who do them just to say they’ve been riding in other countries. This book is aimed squarely at riders who aren’t afraid to do things the hard way.

Greg covers equipment (including mechanical readiness, accessories, amenities), insurance issues, eating and lodging, safety and security, and proper gear. He explains how to stay warm, cool, and hydrated; how and what to pack; and what to do when you’re caught out by catastrophe or law enforcement officials. There’s a good discussion of hazards in foreign countries, where road etiquette can be hard to decipher. There’s also an entire chapter on money, including how to save it and how to deal with exchange rates and unexpected expenses. In addition, the book discusses roadside repairs, daily maintenance, and creative things to carry for emergencies. Greg even writes about knowing your limits, with a frank discussion of the risks you face in world travel.

This book is filled with great advice, all punctuated with entertaining stories from Greg’s own experiences. It’s also full of excellent photos of fellow travelers and unusual situations, the kind of pictures that make you want to get out and explore the world for yourself. If you read this book before heading out for adventure, you’ll benefit from Greg’s years of experience. But in the end, as The Doctor recommends, do it your own way. RB

SOURCES

Motorcycle Touring: Everything You Need to Know $24.95
By Dr. Gregory W. Frazier
Paperback, 159 pp.
Motorbooks
800/826-6600
motorbooks.com