Rides & Routes

California is hands down one of the best places in the world to ride a motorcycle. We love it so much that we’ve actually written about it before. But this land of forests, deserts, mountains, and beaches has so much to offer that there was plenty that we couldn’t get to.

We know that California’s varied terrain offers a wealth of adventure for offroad bikers, and the same holds true for its scenic highways and vistas. Here are seven of our picks for the best motorcycle rides in California, from the ancient redwood forests to the sweeping desert plains.

1. Redwood Ride

Though most probably imagine beaches and Los Angeles when they think of California, in many ways you could say that the heart of the Golden State rests up north.

Take Highway 101 west to Highway 1 from the town of Leggett and you’ll find yourself riding alongside the Pacific Coast. Along the way, you can take in a view of the sea unlike any other, and if you’re so inclined, the road is lined with public access points to the beach. At this point in the ride, you’ll be traveling under nothing but clear blue skies with nothing but the pacific.

While that would be pleasant enough on its own, it’s nothing compared to what awaits you once you turn onto Highway 20.

Here you’ll be passing through Jackson State Forest. Mighty redwoods grow in abundance here, shading the road from the California sun. Eventually, you’ll curve back around to Highway 101 to complete the ride.

The route proper stretches about 123 miles. However, there are ample opportunities for detours, to budget at least several extra hours to complete it.

Along the route, you’ll pass through Fort Bragg, which is an excellent place to stop. In particular, the city prides itself on its food culture, so stopping here for a bite is practically mandatory.

2. Sequoia National Forest by Way of Woodlake

The previous ride is more intended for cruising. So if you’re interested in something a little more challenging, you might consider taking Woodlake in Sequoia National Forest. This 25-mile ride is full of sharp turns carves its way through giant sequoia trees and includes passages over desert patches.

Start off in the town of Woodlake, which is just 52 miles southeast of Fresno. From here, you’ll head up Highway 245 until it merges into Highway 180 within the forest.

The scenery of Sequoia National Forest is unparalleled, and in between taking hairpin turns there will plenty of opportunities for you to get off along the way. The forest is full of hiking trails, crystal caves, and campgrounds.

You a little ways off the beaten track here, so there’s not too much in the ways of accommodations out there. Probably your best bet would be Badger Moutain House, previously known as Sister’s Moutain House. It’s a good, biker-friendly bar and restaurant.

All the same, if you’re touring the forests of northern California, then getting away from the beaten track is more of a pro than a con.

3. Angeles Crest Highway

One of California’s greatest strengths is that, even in the cities, you’re rarely ever far from the countryside. Case in point: The Angeles National Forest comprises some 700,000 acres of wilderness in the Los Angels metro area. And the Angeles Crest Highway runs right through it.

This alpine area is only a few minutes away from downtown LA, but you’d never know to look at it. Development along Angeles Crest is pretty scarce, so you can expect to see a lot of forest and mountains along the 60-mile stretch. And at their peaks, some of these roads reach an elevation of 7,000 feet, giving you an enviable view.

As a bonus, the construction is all still fairly new, so the road conditions are excellent. And for LA, the traffic is about as scarce as it gets, being mostly just sightseers and locals.

The route starts in La Canada and runs east on Highway 2 into the mountains until it reaches its endpoint in Wrightwood. Much of the trail travels through the Los Angeles Basin, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop along the way.

Visitors can do anything from horseback riding to hiking to watersports. And of course, it’s just outside of LA proper, so once you’re done you can always head back into town and spend the evening at the legendary Rainbow Bar and Grill.

4. Dante’s View Road

If forests and coastlines don’t really do it for you, then this might be the ride for you. Resting about 140 miles west of Las Vegas, this stretch of road is aptly named as a tour along Dante’s View will offer you some of the best vantages of Death Valley you can find.

Start out at Highway 190 and ride southwest on Furnace Creek Road until you come to Dante’s View Road. From here, it’s about five and a half miles to the peak. Here, at an elevation of 5,476 feet, you’ll be able to see for miles around. On clear days, you can even see all the way to Nevada’s Mount Whitney.

You wouldn’t know it by its reputation, Death Valley has some of the most incredible landscapes on the planet. Though you won’t find a single thing that grows higher than your knee, the desert landscape will nevertheless be indelibly etched into your memory. The elegant mountains vary between reddish-brown and blonde, and desert wildflowers take over the plains in the springtime.

Plus, Death Valley has some of the darkest nights, making it one of the best places to stargaze.

5. Highway 74

Highway 74 is a 50 mile stretch of road that will take you through San Bernardino National Forest and across the dunes of the Palm Desert. Start in Hemet and follow it all the way to Indian Wells for a twisting, turning tour that really shows of the differing landscapes of the Golden State.

The path is dotted the whole way with attractions, and you’re never too far from a place to make a quick stop. The Paradise Valley Cafe sits about halfway through the ride and is a well-known biker-friendly spot to stop.

6. Montezuma Valley Road

Montezuma Valley Road sits 75 miles north of San Diego and has consistently been a favorite patch of road for bikers. Start your ride in Ranchita and head east to Borrego Springs. The 13-mile trip is a classic Southern California tour.

As the name implies, this road sharp curves carve their way through the Montezuma Valley. With the rocky landscape surrounding you on all sides, the road will take you on a dive some 3,000 feet down into the desert. Just keep your eyes open; Borrego bighorn sheep have been known to wander near the road here.

You’ll know that you’ve made it to Borrego when you start seeing the huge metal sculptures that line the sides of the road. There’s about 130 of them in all, designed and built by artist Ricardo Breceda. Out of them, a 350-foot serpent and a giant dinosaur tearing across the desert are probably the two that stand out the most.

7. Conzelman Road

Probably saving the most visible and recognizable one for last, Conzelman Road runs right through the Golden Gate Recreational area. It’s only a four-mile trek, but it takes you across some of the best vistas that San Fransisco has to offer.

Start the trip by crossing the Golden Gate Bridge and take Conzelman Road westward, heading towards the coast. This cliffside patch of road will take you over coastal views that you’ll never see replicated anywhere.

It’s a short trip to be sure, only lasting about 15 minutes. But if you find yourself in Northern California, it’s almost essential to take this ride. Not to mention that you’ll be in San Fransisco, which will offer myriad diversions of its own.

These Are Just a Few of the Best Motorcycle Rides in California

California runs nearly 800 miles from north to south, and in that span, you can travel from the high mountains to the side of the sea. In all that territory, there was no way that we were going to list every great ride here.

That why bikers have always loved this state, and why someone will always be heading out onto the road looking for the next best motorcycle rides in California.

But as much as we love the Golden State, we wouldn’t limit ourselves to just one part of the country. And we don’t expect that you would either. So if you’re looking for more ideas for your next great ride, check out our list of the top six best motorcycle roads in the United States.

More people are riding motorbikes than ever before in America.

Indeed, over the last 4 years, 1.5 million US households became proud owners of their first motorbike. Those are crazy numbers!

Clearly, the masses have started to cotton onto what we’ve been saying all along:

There’s nothing quite like 2-wheel travel.

However, there’s a big difference between racing around the neighborhood and hopping on an epic motorcycle road trip. As free-spirited as the open road sounds, driving any vehicle for hours at a time can be a tiring experience.

But it’s a whole new ball game when you’re on a bike.

Are you looking into your first long-distance motorcycle trip? Well, we’ve got some pointers to help you have the best, and safest, trip possible. Sound good?

Keep reading to learn 10 top tips for riding long distances safely, comfortably, and successfully, on a motorbike.

1. Be Weather Sensible

First thing’s first:

You need to wear and pack the appropriate gear and clothing for the ride ahead.

There’s literally nothing worse than being kitted out for the wrong weather. Imagine riding for hours in the blazing sun wearing long johns and waterproofs. Conversely, imagine being caught in the rain and freezing cold without them.

Being blessed with hot and sunny weather isn’t without its issues either. When the sun’s out and the air’s warm, wearing sun-smart gear can make a mighty difference. Consider wearing a cool neck wrap, and be sure to slather yourself in sunscreen.

The take-home message here is to pay attention to the weather and proceed accordingly.

Don’t be caught out though. Check the weather forecast for an accurate idea of potential changes that might arise. The day might start off clear and dry, only to get worse later in the day.

2. Be Prepared for Emergencies

As they say, failing to prepare is like preparing to fail.

The idea of a spontaneous road trip can be mightily appealing. Caught up in the excitement, it’s tempting to hop straight onto your Harley without taking appropriate safety measures.

It goes without saying that all kinds of things can go wrong on a long ride. Everything from mechanical hiccups to first aid emergencies could occur. 90% of the time you’ll be totally fine. But it’s your job to be prepared for the worst all the same.

Regardless of your specific motorbike, packing a basic maintenance kit can be a life-saver when you’re stuck in the middle of no-where. At a minimum, have a basic tool kit, jumper cables, spare oil, and a tire inflator.

On the medical side of the equation, try to pack an equally small yet practical first-aid kit. Make sure you have sufficient supplies of water, a flashlight, and food, just in case you need them.  

3. Be Properly Maintained

This tip follows a similar theme.

The trick to avoiding disaster is to take essential preventative measures.

In this way, it makes total sense to have your motorbike examined ahead of time. Take it to a professional mechanic to ensure that everything is running as it should. They’ll be able to identify any problems and fix them before your ride.

This might feel like a lot of unnecessary effort. However, for long road trips it makes perfect sense. You wouldn’t just try and run a marathon without the necessary prior preparation. You’d make sure you were in great shape beforehand.

Making sure your bike is in adequate condition for a long-distance road trip serves the same purpose. It’s one of the best ways to ensure that you have a smooth and uneventful ride.

4. Be Comfortable

Of course, comfort is crucial too!

There’s a level of endurance that goes with being sat on a motorbike for hours. It can be physically and mentally draining. As such, it’s important to do everything possible to maximize levels of comfort.

Sometimes it’s the smallest accessories that make the biggest difference. For example, having some earplugs to protect against road noise doesn’t sound like much, but you’d be surprised how much they help!

It goes without saying that your posture (and even the type of motorbike you’ve chosen to ride) comes into play as well. Sitting in an upright position will protect your back and help you stay comfortable for longer.

5. Be Group Smart

This tip only applies to people going on a road trip with other riders.

If you’re going solo, then feel free to move on to the next one!

By being group smart, we mean working together to spread the load. Nobody wants to weigh their motorbike down unnecessarily. Thus, get together as a group beforehand and think about combining your supplies.

It’s a bit like two people going on a hike. Rather than taking it in turns to carry one heavy backpack, it makes more sense to divide the load and each take a smaller bag.

Take the same tack with the gear you’ll take on the ride. Split it all up into equal shares to spread the load between everyone.

6. Be Sensible

We’ve said it once, but it’s worth re-emphasizing:

Riding long distances on a motorbike isn’t a walk in the park.

Traveling extreme distances can test the resolve and concentration of even the most experienced riders. The further you go, the more tiring, uncomfortable, and difficult to focus it gets.

Be sensible! Don’t feel compelled to travel the entire distance at once. Take regular stops, even if you don’t think you need one. Stretch your legs, have a nap, stay hydrated, and eat some food for energy.

Obviously, the whole point of a road trip is being on the road! However, you want to stay safe and enjoy the journey too. Being well-rested is the best way to make that happen.

Accidents occur when riders get tired. Don’t be another statistic. Be sensible, take breaks, and stay alive.  

7. Be Diligent

Being sensible starts before you set off for the trip itself.

Take the time before you leave to perform basic safety checks on the motorbike.

Look at the fluid levels and refill where required. Clean and/r replace air filters that have become overly clogged. Ensure the brakes work and that there’s enough fluid. Ensure the tires are fully inflated and that the lights are working.

You get the idea.

Of course, if you’ve taken the bike to a mechanic already, then you should feel confident that everything’s good to go. However, anyone who decided against that step should at least be diligent in their personal checks.

You never know, you might be one single stop sign away from your brakes giving out. Testing them before the ride can avert disaster.

8. Be an Appropriate Weight

It’s always easy to overpack for a trip.

You assume you need more than you really do. As such, you stuff your saddlebags and storage spaces full to the brim. You’ve got food, clothing and supplies to last for weeks on end!

The trouble is that it all adds weight to the bike. As you know, this will make it feel slower, less responsive and less fuel-efficient. However, there’s a chance it will exceed the bike’s load limit too.

This is the heaviest weight that your bag’s designed to carry! Stay under that level wherever possible. Don’t already know the load limit for your bike? Check the owner’s manual, or use this calculator, before you leave.

9. Be In the Know

There’s only so much you can plan and prepare before a trip.

Nonetheless, it makes sense to do what you can to facilitate its smooth-running.

Oftentimes, that involves looking ahead for potential issues that might arise. Being in the know like this will help you avoid trouble along the road.

Now, we’ve already mentioned the need to check the weather forecast. Additional considerations include the route itself, and whether there’s any roadworks or potential obstacles to navigate.

Likewise, think about the amount of gas you’ll burn on the way. Plot on the map where you’ll fill up, and have enough cash to cover the expense.

Next, how about official documents if you’re to be crossing borders? And where will you sleep? Booking ahead will save the hassle of doing it on the trip itself.

10. Be Realistic

Our final tip is to be realistic.

By that, we mean not biting off more than you can chew- especially if this is your first long-distance trip.

Sometimes starting small is best. Test the waters with a long but manageable distance first. This will give you a taste of what proper road trips are like. With this behind you, gradually build up to ever-longer rides.

Enjoy Your Motorcycle Road Trip

More Americans are riding motorbikes than ever before.

However, there’s a mighty difference between brief and extended stints on the back of a bike. A long-distance motorcycle road trip is an incredible experience, but it’s not without its challenges.

Hopefully, though, this post has provided the tips you need to do it right.

Looking for trip inspiration? Click here to check out the ‘Rides and Routes’ section of the blog now!

In the world’s toughest motorcycle riding competition, riders tackle 1,000 miles in 24 hours. That is the equivalent of riding from Miami to Nashville or San Antonio to Denver. 

If you are new to long distance motorcycle riding, then there are a few things you need to learn before you get started. Never attempt a long distance ride without doing the prep work, no matter how spontaneous you want to be. 

Work through this guide so that you are ready whenever the call of the road gets too strong, and you want to head out on your own epic long distance motorcycle adventure. 

There are few things in life more exhilarating than scenic motorcycle trips. The call of the open road is hard to ignore. As the seasons begin to change and the colors of autumn arrive, there’s no better time to break out the map in search of an exciting destination.

If you love fall scenery, you are probably looking for the best routes for motorcycle trips this time of year. Let’s take a look at a few that you won’t want to pass up.

The Best Motorcycle Trips for Viewing Stunning Fall Foliage

It’s hard to beat motorcycle trips where you can soak in the gorgeous colors of the fall foliage. Here are some of the best destinations for autumn rides.

Beartooth Highway

Beartooth Pass starts in the town of Red Lodge, Montana and takes motorcyclists on a journey across 68 miles into Wyoming and the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This is one of the most popular stretches of paved road in the Rocky Mountains among motorcycle enthusiasts. It offers stunning vistas and steep switchbacks, glacier-laden peaks, waterfalls, and expansive forests. This twisting, beautiful journey through the Rockies takes riders up to 10, 974 feet, and should definitely be added to every rider’s top 10 list.

Pig Trail Scenic Byway

The northwestern section of Arkansas is known by many riders as the mother load of awesome motorcycle roads. At the top of the heap is a 19-mile stretch of pavement called Pig Trail. It follows Arkansas 23 and passes through a twisting tunnel of foliage in the Ozark and Boston Mountains. Among the highlights of the Pig Trail is the charming Victorian town of Eureka Springs, with tons of shops, restaurants, and lodging to take advantage of. Riders love the exhilarating hairpin turns and breath-taking scenery, so we recommend that you head to the Ozarks sooner rather than later.

Tail of the Dragon

This ride is only 11 miles long, but features 318 curves. It’s a stretch of U.S. Highway 129 that borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee before dipping into North Carolina. Although it’s the shortest ride on this list, its thrilling curves with names like Wheelie Hell, Brake or Bust Bend, and Copperhead Corner will challenge your riding skills and the fall colors will inspire you.

Blue Ridge Parkway

This iconic ride along the spine of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains actually connects Great Smoky Mountain National Park in North Carolina with Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. It’s a long 469-mile ride that is often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive”. It boasts amazing views with plenty of places to stop, along with a diverse variety of wildlife and foliage to enjoy as you motor along in the laid-back atmosphere.

Three Sisters

Often referred to as Twisted Sisters, this 100-mile loop through the Texas Hill country might just change your preconceptions of the Lone Star State. Three Sisters takes riders up jagged hills, through canyons, and provides ample wide open views from multiple vistas. This ride is best taken during autumn when the temperature is cooler and the trees have begun to change colors. This is as good as it gets, with clear rivers and twisty mountain curves, allowing you to experience Texas at its most beautiful. Just be aware that there aren’t many places to stop so you’ll need to gas up before hitting the road.

Pacific Coast Highway

PCH is really the quintessential American road trip. If this dream-like ride isn’t already on your bucket list, add it immediately. It stretches for 655 miles from Seattle to San Diego, California, and is truly some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Autumn is the ultimate time to experience this ride, as the winding pavement takes you through forests ablaze with vibrant red and orange of changing leaves. You certainly don’t want to miss the 123 mile stretch of PCH between Monterey and Morro Bay, where riders will pass through Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea, as well as the historic Hearst Castle. With the sun on your back and a warm breeze in your face, it’s hard to beat a trip down the PCH.

San Juan Mountain Skyway

If you’re looking for a ride that offers the ultimate scenery, the Colorado Rocky Mountains rank second-to-none, and the San Juan Mountain Skyway is considered the best of the best. This circular 236-mile path will take you through the southwestern Colorado mountain towns of Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, and Durango. The road climbs to an elevation of 14,000 feet, passing through red rock canyons, hot springs, and historic mining towns, with inspiring mountain views along the entire route. Mesa Verde National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are especially glorious as the colors of fall arrive.

Cherohala Skyway

Located in the western portion of North Carolina, the Cherohala Skyway extends all the way into remote parts of Eastern Tennessee. This route doesn’t offer the extreme twists and turns of the nearby Tail of the Dragon. But considering that it’s four times longer, it’s actually preferred by most riders planning a trip in North Carolina. This easy ride is 45 miles long, making it a joy to see during the beautiful autumn months.

Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive

This one takes us through Wisconsin. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive curves through sloping hills, steep ridges, and beautiful lakes. Kettle Moraine’s incredible views were created by glacial movement millions of years ago. The route boasts amazing foliage in fall, and the plentiful variety of restaurants and shops we give you tons to do as you enjoy the brilliant colors.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Built in the 1930s, this route unfurls for 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi. Before becoming the Natchez Trace Parkway, it served as a migratory trail for Native Americans and buffalo. The ride will take you past Civil War battle sites and ghost towns, as well as parts of the original Natchez Trace Indian Trail. Don’t worry about stops signs (there aren’t any) or trucks (they are not allowed) as you make the journey from state to state.

Peak to Peak Highway

This ride might be a mere 60 miles long, but it combines plenty of sensational twists with some of the most astounding scenery you’ll find on the planet. The mountain vistas will dazzle you as the road crests the Continental Divide in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. The valleys are glacier-cut and the switchbacks meander through thick forests to alpine meadows ablaze with colors from a Monet painting.

Peak to Peak extends north along Highways 72 and 7, then drops down to Estes Park. There’s plenty of wildlife to see there, including elk and moose. So keep to a safe speed, because hitting one of these huge animals will definitely ruin your day. We suggest packing your hiking books so that you can take a break from riding and walk a scenic trail inside the park. Or even take along some camping gear for weekend motorcycle trips.

Coastal Route One

U.S. Route 1 in Maine, from Brunswick to Machias is a quintessential New England experience. It’s 167 miles of paved two-lane that winds through picturesque seaside villages and a landscape dotted with historic lighthouses. The road features both sweeping curves and long open sections. Just beware of moose and other wildlife that can appear out of nowhere.

Tunnel of Trees

This motorcycle paradise is ranked among the Midwest’s most scenic roads. Located in Michigan, The Tunnel of Trees is part of the M-119, and winds under a canopy of leafy trees that burst into incredible colors in the fall. It starts in Harbor Springs and runs for 20 miles along a spectacular bluff that overlooks Lake Michigan, and features some especially sharp twists at Horseshoe Curve and Devil’s Elbow. Be sure to treat yourself to the unique food and shops along the way.

U.S. Highway 101

This highway is also known as the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. It treats riders to a scenic tour of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. The ride from Olympia to the Oregon border is about 350 miles, and from there the road continues down the Pacific coast. You’ll get to enjoy the colors of the season as well as the colorful ocean tide pools, ancient forests, and alpine meadows, all part of the region’s diverse ecosystem.

The Most Beautiful Time of Year to Ride

Autumn is the time of year when Mother Nature is at her best. The experience of motorcycle trips in the fall is like no other. As temperatures get cooler and colors change, you’ll be inspired to pack your gear and head out to the best places to ride motorcycles.

We encourage you to take advantage of the beauty of the autumn and set out on the road to adventure. No matter where on this list you choose to explore, you’ll be making memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime. Never been on a big ride before? We’ve got you covered with 10 tips for your first cross country motorcycle trip.

There’s nothing like the feel of the wind on your face while driving down the road in the summertime. But better yet is the view when you’re riding down a scenic drive, be it coast or inland. Riders can take all their favorite accessories around the world and explore long and short trails alike, challenging their riding skills and taking in spectacular views.  It’s hard to know where to start when looking for a new drive to take, but this list encompasses some of the best drives all over the world.

Historically, motorcycles do great on tours, and adventure bike rentals have gone up in the last few years. It’s important for a rider to be prepared for international travel. If a rider wants to take an international trip with their motorcycle, it’s a good idea to have an international driver’s license. There is more information here about how to obtain one. Several states, including Maine, have laws prohibiting wheelies, or “raising wheel.” It’s a good idea to check international laws before embarking on a trip overseas with a bike.

You got the motorcycle, you’ve got the gear, now all you need is somewhere to ride. We take a look at 11 of the best motorcycle rides on the planet; rides that every motorcycle enthusiast should try once in their lifetime:

1. Sardinia, Italy

Traveling down both coasts and inland by motorcycle enables the rider to truly see the island. These trips are fairly short, only taking a couple hours at most to reach the end, but short trips mean riders can lengthen their tour with fun stops along the way. To tour the eastern coast of Sardinia, start in Olbia and follow SS125 south toward Tortoli. With good pavement, the breathtaking views of the coast are interspersed with tiny villages and even a castle! Along the way, there is a town called Genna Silana to stop for coffee. Tourists will find some great hiking trails, too, if riders want to stretch their legs. To tour Central Sardinia, take SS 198 from Tortoli toward Lanusei. Keep following that road through Gairo Vecchia and Osini, then follow the signs for Scala di San Giorgio. The last part of the trip to the top of the mountain is a tough ride in a forest, but worth the five minutes of roughness for the view at the end.There are few places to stop along the way, so make sure to fill up and have a bite to eat before leaving Tortoli. To tour western Sardinia, take SP 105 from Alghero to Bosa. This part of the trail is only 28 miles, but there are huge cliffs and perfect views all along the way. The road is clean and clear of traffic most of the time, too.

2. San Miguel de Allende to Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, Mexico

One of the shorter trips on the list, traveling along 51 is about a 30-40 minute drive. The landscape is beautiful, and tourists will begin at what has been heralded as the most beautiful city in the world, San Miguel de Allende. When riders reach Dolores Hidalgo, the site of the beginning of Mexico’s independence, they will have plenty of sightseeing opportunity. Visit the church, the museums, and the monument, and then have lunch or dinner and a siesta.

3. The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada

This trail is 187 miles long, with all the curves a motorcyclist could want. It’s almost a complete circle along the coast of Cape Breton Island, starting at Buckwheat Corner and traveling west. The trail goes through tiny sea towns and fishing villages, looping north, east, and back south, finishing at St. Ann’s. There are so many places to stop along the way, with Celtic music and heritage to explore and wonderful hiking trails. The ocean is never far from view, and the road is generally in good condition.

4. The Great Ocean Road, Australia

This trail curves from Melbourne to Peterborough and was built in the 1920s. The best way to travel the road is over several days, although the trip is possible in only one. The seacoast and amazing landscape are visible, including Shipwreck Coast, and there are many beaches where riders could take a break for surfing. Riders can view the limestone rock formations, and they should make sure to stop at a pub along the way.

5. Cape Town Circuit, South Africa

In order to cover the 1050 miles on this circuit, the riders start north along the western coast of South Africa, before heading east. The loop back to Cape Town can be completed in one or two weeks, depending on how much riders want to tour the area. Take the trail all the way to Addo National Park, and find some great curves and turns along Route 62. Don’t forget your camera, and pick up some South African wine as you head back to Cape Town. Riders will want to fit in some tourism when they get back to the city, including a hike up Table Mountain (take a cable car back down). For a taste of Irish cuisine, visit The Dubliner downtown, and visit the colorful houses in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, along with the market.

6. Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina, USA

This is a very short drive, but there are over 300 curves in the short distance (11 miles!) of trail. Riders will travel the border of the Great Smoky Mountains on US 129, starting in North Carolina and ending in Tennessee. The mountains offer scenic views and beautiful forests, and along the way, you can find the Tree of Shame, covered in smashed up parts from motorcycles that were damaged on their tours of the Tail of the Dragon.

7. Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii, USA

In the 60 miles of road from the Kipahulu Forest in Hana to Kahului, there are over 600 turns. Experienced riders should also watch out for the 60-some bridges with only one lane, but the gorgeous views and greenery is all worth it. Hana is isolated and not very developed, so the tropical paradise mostly remains untouched. Along the way, stop at the Hasegawa General Store, built in 1910 and featured in 1961 in the song by Paul Weston.

8. Nurburgring, Germany

This is one of the longest permanent race tracks (although one of the shorter routes listed here) in the world, known worldwide as The Green Hell. Riders travel 12.8 miles with no speed limit and one-way traffic. Riders can pay a toll and drive around Nurburg and the castle there. The route is difficult, but the mountain views along the way are worth it. Sounds like a blast!

9. El Camino de la Muerte, Bolivia

Starting in La Paz around 12,000 feet, the road climbs to 15,000 feet before descending to Coroico. It was built in the 1930s and is one of the only ways to get from La Paz, one of the nation’s capitals and the government seat, down to the foothills. Years ago, hundreds of people died on this trail every year because of the gravel and the hairpin turns cliff side without guardrails. This is what gave the treacherous road its nickname, “The Death Road.” Since 2008, the road has been paved, making it less dangerous, but still nerve-wracking to twist along the mountain unprotected. Before leaving La Paz, riders can do some sightseeing at the many museums and cathedrals.

10. Los Caracoles Pass, Chile

This is a section of one of 40 border crossings between Argentina and Chile, and probably the most dangerous. The Paso de los Libertadores is full of switchbacks down the mountain, and there is always a lot of traffic. It is wise to travel slowly and safely. That is where the pass gets its name; Los Caracoles means “the snails.” Along the way, view the magnificent statue Cristo Redentor de los Andes, a statue erected to commemorate the peace finally reached between the two countries.

11. Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom

Traveling the 270 miles from Kendal to Whitney is a one-day trip, but riders could stretch this into a longer excursion with tourist stops. Enjoying a pint after a long day’s ride at a pub in northern England sounds like the perfect way to finish the drive. Along the way, visit Hawes, a small market town and the home of the Wensleydale Creamery. Leeds is also nearby (with Leeds Castle), Ripon, and the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

These are some fantastic places to visit. Riders have a ready-made bucket list now, with the advice to enjoy them in the sunniest of weather. These roads take travelers around the world, with short and long trips, tons of curves and straightaways, and the best vistas the world has to offer. Ready for the best motorcycle rides in the world? Zoom, Zoom!

Are you one of the many motorcycle enthusiasts who dream of riding across the country on Route 66? This iconic ride is something everyone should do at least once in their lifetime. But the question remains: What do you do when you finally reach the Pacific Coast? Don’t worry. Your epic ride doesn’t have to end when you see the ocean. In fact, some of the best motorcycle routes in the country are scattered throughout the western United States. Are you ready to gear up and ride off into the sunset? Whether you’re riding with your significant other, your closest friends, or making a solo journey, we’ve got you covered.

In this post, we’ll reveal the best motorcycle rides in each of the three west coast states–California, Oregon, and Washington.

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