Love those scenic routes? The Phoenix-to-Show Low route is a 139-mile ride and is rated 5/5 for scenery and 5/5 for road quality on motorcycleroads.com. It scores a bit lower for amenities, but is a favorite for many avid motorcyclists in the area.
Make sure to fill up on gas, water, and snacks before you start because there are very few places to find them along the way. The road is flat at first, and does require some freeway riding. It gradually works into curves and a climb, so you might want a jacket as the elevation makes it a bit cooler. You’ll start in Apache Junction and take U.S. Highway 60 all the way to Show Low.
What to Pack
If you’re going on a longer ride, it’s important to pack the necessities—and pack for an emergency.
First, wear a helmet and leathers. They decrease your chances of suffering serious injuries if you do have an accident. Make sure you provide them for your passenger as well.
Next, pack food and water. The drive can be longer than you expect and amenities are harder to find on this route.
It’s also a good idea to have some basic tools to repair your bike should you experience a breakdown.
Pack a fully-charged cellphone and an extra battery if you have it, in case you need to call for help.
If you plan to do the ride and come back all in the same day, plan your trip and consider how much time you’ll need. Leave early enough that you won’t be driving back late at night, when the chances of being in an accident increase.
If you want to stay overnight, make reservations at a Show Low hotel and pack a change of clothes. Keep extra credit cards or cash safe in a body wallet so you don’t have to worry about losing it while you ride or having it stolen. It’s also a good idea to have a set of emergency numbers written down in case your cellphone dies.
Safety on the Route
Traffic can be heavy at first on the freeway areas. It’s important to practice good defensive driving and watch for cars that might not notice you. Side-swipe and t-bone accidents can occur when drivers don’t watch for motorcyclists.
Make sure to adhere to all posted speed limits and other roadway signs.
Use signals to change lanes or turn, and keep a generous distance between your bike and other vehicles at all times.
Ride with a helmet and with lights on to increase your visibility and protect yourself. If you have a passenger with you, have them wear a helmet as well.
As you approach the curves and the climb, stay aware of oncoming vehicles and any sharper corners. Make sure your passenger knows not to distract you while you drive, and if you do need to take a rest, pull off in a safe location. There are some roadside shops at the Salt River Canyon lookout and a casino in Show Low.
It’s important to understand that no matter how carefully you drive, someone else might not be taking the same precautions. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by distracted, careless, and even drunk drivers. If you are the victim of a motorcycle accident, it’s important to reach out and get professional assistance as soon as you can. The Husband and Wife Team at Breyer Law Offices, P.C., has years of experience helping motorcyclists just like you, and they are here to help!