Long-distance riding is one of the great joys of motorcycling — but it also exposes every weakness in your setup. The accessories that work fine for a 20-minute commute can become serious annoyances (or worse) on a 500-mile day. Here's how to think through your gear before your next big ride.
1. Prioritize Comfort and Convenience
On long rides, small inconveniences compound fast. Reaching into a bag for your water bottle every time you're thirsty gets old after the first hour. Accessories that keep essentials within arm's reach — without requiring you to stop — are worth their weight in gold.
A motorcycle cup holder is one of the highest-value upgrades for long-distance riders. Staying hydrated on the road isn't optional, and having your drink accessible means you'll actually drink it. Look for one that fits your preferred tumbler size (20 oz or 30 oz are the most common) and mounts securely to your handlebar or frame.
2. Think About Mounting Flexibility
Every motorcycle is different, and the best accessories are the ones that actually fit your bike. Before buying any handlebar-mounted accessory, check your handlebar diameter and available real estate around your controls.
RAM Mount hardware is a popular solution for riders who want maximum flexibility — the ball-and-socket system lets you position accessories at almost any angle, and the components are interchangeable across different mounts.
3. Choose Materials That Last
Long rides mean exposure to sun, rain, wind, and temperature swings. Plastic accessories fade, crack, and loosen over time. Stainless steel is the gold standard for motorcycle accessories — it handles the elements without corroding, and it doesn't rattle loose from vibration the way cheaper materials do.
When evaluating any accessory, ask: would this hold up after 10,000 miles? If the answer is uncertain, keep looking.
4. Don't Overlook the Small Stuff
The accessories that make the biggest difference on long rides are often the simplest ones:
- Cup or bottle holder — hydration without stopping
- Phone or GPS mount — navigation without fumbling
- Handlebar bag or tank bag — quick-access storage for snacks, sunscreen, or a light layer
- Grip comfort upgrades — vibration fatigue is real on long days
5. Buy American-Made When You Can
For accessories that take a beating — mounts, holders, hardware — American-made products tend to be built to tighter tolerances and backed by better support. You're not just buying a product; you're buying confidence that it'll hold up when you're 300 miles from home.
At Motor Moxie, everything we make is built in the USA from 304 stainless steel, designed specifically for riders who take their bikes seriously.
Ready to Upgrade Your Ride?
Start with the basics: a secure cup holder, solid mounting hardware, and accessories built to last. Your future self — somewhere on a long stretch of open road with a cold drink in reach — will thank you.