If you didn't make it to Sturgis this year, but are looking to put some miles in on your Harley-Davidson and go on a motorcycle adventure, take a look at this list we’ve compiled of some of the best motorcycle routes in Indiana. There are plenty of routes that you can take nearby that will make you feel like you’ve gone on a vacation, instead of a couple hours from home. 

After you hit Nashville you can head west on SR 46 and drive through Brown County. Stop by Brown County State Park and enjoy the lakes and various lodges as your ride through. You’ll end up in Bloomington, which is home to Indiana University and a lively downtown area. From Bloomington you can take US 37 north and discover different country roads to travel on your way back home.

If covered bridges and dams are what get your gears going then head out on SR450. If you go west out of Bedford then you’ll get a great view of the White River. You’ll pass lots of farms, ride through rolling southern, Indiana hills, and see the Williams Dam built in Lawrence, Indiana. Though it hasn’t been used for its original purposes since the 1960s, it’s an area many bikers like to stop and take in the view.

Finally, a must-do ride is the Crawford-Perry County River Loop. In total it’s about 120 miles and there’s some  beautiful sights to see. The Ohio River, Hoosier National Forest, and Cannelton Locks and Dam. Awesome for spring or fall, the scenery on this trip cannot be beat. 

You may be feeling bummed out that you couldn't make it to Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, but that doesn’t mean Indiana doesn’t have plenty of roads to make a memorable ride. Twist that throttle and go. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.

If you need any packing tips, take a look at our previous blog post Harley Road Trip Tips. Our awesome Service Department can get your bike road trip ready in no time.

Remember, each state has it's own helmet law. If you're traveling out of state, click the link below for each state's helmet laws.

photo credits: photo #1 (visitbrowncounty.com), photo #2 (motorcycleclassics.com), photo #3 (Tony Lombardi, flickr.com), photo #4 (indianarivers.com), photo #5 (Earl Teatherbury, flickr.com)

It’s summertime and the ridin’ is easy. If you’re going on a road trip or just headed out for a long weekend, then what and how to pack your bike is probably on your mind. Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson wants to help you take the guesswork out of packing so that you can get to your destination easier and safer. 

Weight:

You want your bike’s added weight to be as low as possible. If you are deciding whether or not to take something with you, think about cost. If it’s something affordable that will be available for purchase at your destination, then that is something to consider instead of bringing it with you. In addition to adding the least amount of weight possible, it is also important to keep your bike balanced. Small weight differences of 5-10 pounds on one side can make for an exhausting trip. Keep the added weight close to the bike’s center of gravity, which is low and toward the tank. Make sure you don’t block the airflow to the engine. You may need to adjust your tire’s air pressure depending on the amount of extra weight.

What to Bring:

Rolling clothes takes up less space than folding, and large zipper-lock bags work well when storing them. Zipper-lock bags can also be used for a number of other items such as toiletries, cash, credit cards, and tools. Try to bring tools that are multi-purpose as opposed to one-use items. Lighter is always better, so if you have access to a washer and/or dryer where you are staying, plan to use it and pack accordingly! Put your emergency items and other items that you may need to get to quickly in one saddlebag, and your overnight things in the other. 

Practice!

It’s also important to do a “dry run” before you begin your journey. Pack up everything as you would if you were leaving, but take a short ride (1-2 hours) and see if adjustments are needed. Southside H-D wants to make your summer trips as easy as possible, that’s why you can stop in 7 days a week and talk to our Parts & Accessories department about the newest Harley-Davidson luggage for your bike.

Be Weather Aware:

Lastly, you may never know what kind of weather you will encounter if you’re on the road for a long period of time. Southside H-D has all your rain wear and high-visibility needs. Come in and talk to anyone in our MotorClothes department who can supply you with knowledge to make the right riding gear purchases.

Harley-Davidson has a checklist of essentials and extras for long trips, as well. Regardless of your destination, Indy Southside has you covered. We hope these road trip tips get you roll. Ride on!

It's riding season and Harley-Davidson Riding Academy is back! If you're brand new to riding, rode back in the day, or just getting your endorsement, the New Rider Course is for you. It's designed to give you the confidence you need to get on the road. 

What is Riding Academy?

Riding Academy is all about learning to ride. You’ll get plenty of in-class and on-range training, led by pro instructors at Southside Harley-Davidson. Our coaches are Motorcycle Safety Foundation® (MSF) and H-D® Certified.

During your Riding Academy experience you’ll learn about acceleration and braking, shifting and turning, as well as special maneuvering skills such as controlling skids and avoiding obstacles. Riding Academy grads earn a MSF Basic RiderCourse Completion Card, which allows you to bypass the written and riding test when you go to get your endorsement at an Indiana BMV. It can help get you a discount on motorcycle insurance, too. 

Class Requirements:

• Eyewear
• DOT-approved helmet
• Full-fingered gloves
• Boots or similar over-the-ankle and closed-toe footwear
• Jeans or leather pants
• Heavy long-sleeve shirt or jacket

You’ll also need a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit, and the ability to ride a bicycle.

Spots Filling Up Fast – Enroll Now!

Indianapolis Southside Harley-Davidson offers flexible three or four-day courses to better accommodate your busy schedule. Once registered, all students are required to complete a three-hour online training component before coming to their first class. 

Southside H-D also offers a Skilled Rider Course for more experienced riders. There's a limited quantity of spots for this course, so register now. 

Ask any Harley rider and they’ll tell you learning to ride a motorcycle is one of the best decisions they've made. Spots fill up fast, be sure to sign up for the New Rider Course today!