Woods Monkey BLOG
Motorcycle As Bug-Out Vehicle
By George Nikolakopoulos
Over the last couple of days, the weather has changed: the days are getting longer, and the temperatures are rising, although a chill can still be felt at night. Nature is turning green and more colourful, uncovering itself from the white sheet of winter. For motorcycle enthusiasts, this is the season that calls for more riding and more tours with their favourite two-wheeler. As a motorcycle enthusiast, I anticipate riding more this season. Besides that, I have started to consider how I can use a motorcycle as a bug-out vehicle in an emergency.
A lot of questions are popping up as I try to put together a plan for this project. What engine should the motorcycle have—air-cooled or liquid-cooled? Also, what capacity should I consider—big or small? And what type of bike would suit this role best? Sport/touring or scrambler/on-off style?
Engine Types
An air-cooled engine relies on a very simple mechanism. It allows air passing over the cylinder fins to dissipate heat. The advantages of this engine are its simplicity, easy maintenance, and lightweight design. It is best suited for small-capacity motorcycles and is therefore also cheaper to purchase. Having no radiator offers a cleaner look, and this type of engine is often sought after in vintage-style bikes. Despite all these benefits, an air-cooled engine also has some drawbacks. When commuting in heavy traffic, overheating might occur. Also, the output of such motorcycles is generally lower than that of liquid-cooled ones.
Liquid-cooled engines are more advanced. This type of engine uses a mixture of water and coolant circulated through a radiator to manage temperature. This allows for more reliable and consistent temperature control. A liquid-cooled engine can produce more power and is better suited for motorcycles designed for high speeds and performance. The main disadvantages are the increased complexity, which makes these motorcycles more expensive, and the higher maintenance requirements, since the pump, fan, and radiator must be checked for potential leaks.
Small Bike or Big Bike
A small-capacity motorcycle, from 125cc to 500cc, is light, nimble, and cheap to purchase and maintain. It offers better fuel economy than a bigger motorcycle and has a smaller overall profile. However, the carrying capacity is limited; it is better suited for one person and their belongings.
A big motorcycle is more expensive to purchase and maintain, heavier, and has higher fuel consumption. On the other hand, it provides a larger presence, can easily carry two people, and allows for more luggage. Achieving higher speeds is also easier with such motorcycles. There is no perfect bike. All different types of motorcycles have their pros and cons. You have to choose a bike knowing its strong points and limitations and manage to balance them with your needs.
Route Planning and Gear
Using a motorcycle to bug out has some benefits but also some drawbacks. A bike is more maneuverable and lighter than a car. In case of a traffic jam, you can easily pass stopped cars. At the same time, though, you are more vulnerable to weather elements and potential accidents. You can protect yourself from the elements with proper gear, but in the event of an accident, the bike might be totaled, and you may lose your means of transportation—even if you remain intact.
If you have to leave your city or town, avoid major routes; use secondary roads instead. Always have backup routes.
The carrying capacity of a motorcycle is not the same as that of a car, so you have to carry only the most essential items. Draw from your camping experience and take what will provide you with shelter, water, and food. Having a fire kit and a first aid kit is also advised. Definitely carry documentation and some cash.
Depending on local laws, you may consider carrying a handgun along with extra ammunition. A small toolkit for the motorcycle and a knife with a folding saw do not weigh much and could save you from trouble. The saw can be especially useful if you are using country backroads—you might need to clear a fallen tree to make enough room to pass.
A spare set of underwear and socks is always worth having. If possible, add a spare change of clothes. These should match the season and the conditions of your route. In most cases, you are not escaping a dramatic, end-of-the-world scenario—you are more likely evacuating due to a hurricane, flooding, or similar situation. The most common destination in such cases is the home of family or close friends outside the affected area, or perhaps a hotel. Plan and adapt accordingly.
Choosing a motorcycle ultimately comes down to individual preferences and needs. There is no right or wrong choice. Personally, I prefer a motorcycle with a small engine (no bigger than 500–600cc). I do not like heavy bikes; the ideal weight for me is around 180 kg wet. The riding position also plays an important role. I prefer naked bikes, especially those with a vintage scrambler style. The lower seat height and upright position suit me well. I am not a fan of big touring or adventure bikes, and I cannot tolerate the bent riding position of a sport bike for long. After all, the motorcycle I own is also my daily commuter and travel companion.
No matter your choice, you should consider all the factors that make you happy riding your motorcycle daily and, above all, enjoy it.Having an extra vehicle for emergencies is never a bad idea, and having a plan is always a good thing.
George Spent nine years in the Greek Army Raiders where he learned survival skills. Since being honorably discharged, he has been working in the tourism industry. After every season ends, you will find him at his olive field harvesting olives to make oil. In his free time, George loves spending time outdoors hunting, camping, and practicing traditional archery. He enjoys writing articles, sharing his experiences of his trips to the woods, gear reviews, recipes and survival tips. George was a a contributing writer to Self-Reliance Illustrated magazine and has a YouTube and Blog under the name Mountain Raider.