Getting ready to ride, especially in Malaysia, takes preparation. Among the priority things on my list are GPS, local cash, and riding protection. Without each, all the awareness in the world will not matter. I know my list sounds obvious, but many go on motorcycle rides without thinking about the potential outcomes.
There is a natural tendency, especially among my gender (male), to assume that a natural sense of direction exists within us. When signs are in English, our confidence grows. In the reality of winding roads, hills, and bad light, we are confident that we know how to navigate. With all due respect to my fellow riders and my ego, much of the time we are ignorantly riding blind. Asking and paying attention to those in the know (GPS device) is always a good thing. Not everything is intuitive.
Malaysia takes credit cards. It is also a country with a high incidence of identity theft, especially as it relates to credit cards. Having cash on hand simplifies things! Foreign currency can be exchanged, however money traders are few and far between. My advice, take the cash you need with a cushion in case there is a minor emergency.
Riding in Malaysia, expressways and on truck roads can be exhilarating. The wind, loose enforcement, and abundance of motorcycles create the perfect atmosphere to grind the foot pegs while enjoying the ride. Road hazards are everywhere. One can anticipate but it is far from risk free. At a minimum, riding boots, leather jacket, gloves, and ideally riding pants are musts.
I just finished ride covering 500 miles over two days. It was fun, tiring, and inspiring. As I look back on the natural chaos that one finds riding, I hear the echo of David’s words; “These things add up. Every one of us needs to pray; when all hell breaks loose and the dam bursts we’ll be on high ground, untouched.” (Psalm 32.6) It was fun to ride. It is also good to be back safe and sound. Taking care of the parts made the sum fantastic.
