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Interview by Todd Quinn
Oregon Marketing Manager
Metier Motorcycle Lawyers
Some riders chase the twisties. Some chase the horizon. And then there are the riders chasing something else entirely, 1k in a day. That’s 1,000 miles in under 24 hours, a true test of discipline, preparation, and mental endurance. It’s not about going fast. It’s about going far. And doing it the right way.
I sat down with Patrick DiBenedetto, Partner at Metier Motorcycle Lawyers and a longtime endurance rider, to talk about what goes into a successful #1K-in-a-day challenge. Patrick’s not just a personal injury attorney, he’s a guy who rides. A lot. And when he says, "I’ve done it," he means it.
Todd Quinn: Alright Patrick, let’s just start with the big one, why the hell would anyone want to ride 1,000 miles in 24 hours?
Patrick DiBenedetto: [laughs] Fair question. For most of us, it’s personal. It’s not about ego. It’s about testing your limits without crossing the line. I’ve always loved the planning, the push, and that feeling at the end where you know you did something not many people can do. A motorcycle endurance ride like this forces you to respect your bike, your body, and the road. When it’s done right, it’s unforgettable and not too uncomfortable. Also, when I’m on a long ride like this, I’m heading to a destination for a purpose and I’m one who likes to get where he’s going so, I can enjoy my time more at the place I’m going.
Todd: So, what’s the first step if someone’s thinking about attempting 1k in a day?
Patrick: Planning. You need a main route, a backup, and a backup for the backup. You don’t want to be 400 miles in and find out your road’s closed. I always start early, 2 or 3 a.m., so I can get the hard miles out of the way while the sun’s coming up. There’s less traffic and you’re mentally sharp.
Todd: What’s your mindset for finishing strong?
Patrick: For me, it's all about conservation. Early in the ride, I'm focused, fueled, hydrated. Later, when fatigue sets in, I want to be on easy, straight roads, not grinding through mountain passes or technical twisties. I plan it so the technical riding happens in the first half. That’s something a lot of people overlook.
Todd: Any essentials that riders should bring for a #1K-in-a-day?
Patrick: Absolutely. A comfortable seat or pad, I use a Wild Ass cushion. Sunscreen. Hydration. Windex-type wipes for your face shield. Tool kit. Automatic tire gage/pump. Extra bungees, zip ties, duct tape – even baling twine if you have it. And a portable charger for your phone or GPS. You can’t rely on cell coverage out there. And layers. Always dress in layers. Temps swing hard on long rides – it is cold at 3:00 a.m.!
How Many 1k Days Has Patrick Ridden?
Todd Quinn: Patrick, how many thousand-mile days have you actually done?
Patrick DiBenedetto: I think five, maybe six? A couple were “official” rides, but most I just sorta did… just because, again, I wanted to get where I was going. Even on the unofficial ones, I still planned it out, route, gas stops, gear. You don’t knock out that kind of mileage by accident. It might not have been for a certificate, but I took it seriously.
Todd: That’s a serious number.
Patrick: Once you’ve done your first 1k in a day, it definitely shifts your perspective. You realize what’s possible if you plan smart and take care of yourself out there. But it also reminds you not to take shortcuts with your prep. A thousand miles isn’t casual, even when it feels like it.
Todd: Talk to me about rest and pacing. How do you keep your body from falling apart?
Patrick: The trick is to ride smart, not hard. The ride’s gonna take 15 to 18 hours. That’s just what it takes. So I stop at gas stations, stretch, rehydrate, maybe check out a roadside attraction. Little mental breaks keep you sharp and help avoid burnout.
Todd: What about road choice? Interstates or back roads?
Patrick: Depends on the goal. If you're just trying to finish 1,000 miles in 24 hours, interstates make it easier. But mostly, I always try to stay on the two-lane roads – They’re always more fun with more interesting things to see. That’s where the magic happens, real landscapes, small towns, open country. Just make sure you're off the twisties by the time fatigue sets in.
Todd: Let’s switch gears. You’re one of the few lawyers who ride. How does that affect the way you look at a ride like this?
Patrick: I carry every client story with me. I’ve represented riders who got hit because a driver wasn’t paying attention, or a road wasn’t maintained. That awareness is always there. I scan harder. I leave bigger gaps. And I tell other riders—don’t try 1k in a day unless you’re prepared. Because I’ve seen how fast something simple can turn into something serious.
Todd: What does finishing feel like?
Patrick: It’s a mix of pride and relief. You’re sore, probably starving, but you’re smiling. You know you respected the challenge. You made smart calls. You stayed safe. That’s what makes it worth it. Oh, and you sleep really well that night!
If you’ve been hurt in a crash and need answers, call us at 866-377-3800 or schedule a free consultation at www.metierlaw.com.
FAQs About 1k in a Day and Motorcycle Endurance Rides
What is “1k in a day”? It’s a challenge to ride 1,000 miles in 24 hours or less, usually called a #1Kinaday. Riders often submit proof to the Iron Butt Association to earn a SaddleSore 1000 certificate or to 1Kinaday for a similar certificate and a cool swag bag with patches, stickers, etc.
Is riding 1,000 miles in 24 hours safe? It can be if you plan it well. Stay hydrated, build in rest breaks, and listen to your body. Never push through fatigue or ignore warning signs. Safety always comes first.
How long does it take to complete 1k in a day? Most riders finish between 15 and 18 hours. Weather, terrain, and rest stops all factor in. Plan your pacing instead of rushing.
What gear should I bring for a #1Kinaday ride? Essentials include: a seat pad, hydration system, visor wipes, layers, toolkit, tire inflator, extra straps, portable phone charger, and a backup route map.
What’s the biggest mistake riders make on endurance rides? Poor planning. Riders either don’t account for fatigue or don’t give themselves flexibility in the route. Riding exhausted is dangerous. Take your time and ride smart.
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Why Riders Trust Metier Law Firm
We’re not just lawyers, we’re riders. That changes how we represent injured motorcyclists. We’ve been in the saddle for long days and fast-changing conditions. We’ve made the stops, seen the breakdowns, and watched other drivers take risks with our lives. So when we represent injured riders, we bring that understanding to the courtroom.
If someone else’s mistake took you off your bike, we’re here to fight for what you’re owed and help you get back to the road.
Call Metier Law Firm at 866-377-3800 or schedule your free consultation today at www.metierlaw.com.
Disclaimer: Past results discussed should not be considered a guarantee of your results as the factors of every case are individually unique. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney from Metier Law Firm regarding your individual situation for legal advice.
