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Riding a motorcycle isn’t for everyone, but those who prefer to take to the road on two wheels will tell you they can’t think of a more thrilling way to get around. It’s therefore no surprise that many motorcycle riders prefer to go on extended road trips involving long hauls across the major motorways of the world.
The thing is, the world has no shortage of highways, freeways, and interstates. After getting their bike in for a tune-up and investing in new protective gear, would-be long-haul riders have the fun yet difficult task of deciding where they want to go. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the options.
To make it easier, we’ve decided to narrow down the list of the countries with the best roadways for a motorcycle adventure:
New Zealand
Cutting through the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland National Park and Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area, Milford Road is a drive that promises memory making moments. At 158.1 miles and estimated at 4-hours driving time, it’s recommended that first timers plan for a longer, more leisurely ride. Plan on stopping to take in the mesmerizing waters of the Mirror Lakes, nestled at the foot of the Earl Mountains and the pristine prettiness of the Cleddau River and its waterfalls. Have your camera rolling to capture the amazing optical illusion of the Disappearing Mountain.
Alaska, United States
If you are drawn by the lure of rugged terrain hiding centuries of history, Seward Highway from Anchorage to Seward, Alaska holds some of the richest stories of any scenic highway route you might find. Enjoy an approximate two-hour ride over 125.3 miles as you tour both the stunning shorelines of Turnagain Arm and the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains. Go for the ride and stick around for the people and pastimes that include fishing, sea cruises, kayaking and more.
South Africa
This winding mountain route might clock in at a mere 5.5 miles, but it features 114 curves that promise riders a thrilling ride, along with dramatic cliff drops leading to a visual feast that includes white sandy beaches lining shining blue ocean waters. Chapman’s Peak Drive is a must for a motorbike adventure. This stretch of road links Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town, affectionately referred to as “Chappies,” by the locals. With several picnic areas, numerous view platforms, whale watching and no end of other adventures to enjoy along the way, riders are guaranteed an unforgettable journey.
Argentina
If you’re looking for the motorcycle adventure of a lifetime, consider Argentina’s Ruta 40, one of the world’s longest roads coming in at 3,195 miles. This amazing road trip crosses through an astonishing 11 provinces, offering riders more diverse viewing then could ever wish for, from a pass through the highest city in Argentina, Mina Pirquitas, at over 14,000 feet and an opening into the heart-stopping beauty of the Andes Mountains. Travel in spring if you want to take your time on the ride, or plan on a December to February trip time if you’re hoping to include some climbing.
Iceland
Beautiful doesn’t do Route 1 in Iceland justice. Route 1, also known as Ring Road, is a stunning 828 miles of road that will take you around the entire nation of Iceland, connecting most of Iceland’s inhabited areas along the coastline and is made up almost entirely of one lane in each direction. This is a ride you want to allow for plenty of leisurely riding and multiple days and stops to fully take in views that each rival the next for most magnificent. What can you expect? Stunning mountain ranges, blue glaciers and mind-blowing waterfalls, hot springs, active volcanoes, and the incomparable Northern Lights.
The world has many beautiful stretches of road. This can make planning a motorcycle adventure a bit daunting, to say the least. However, it’s a safe bet you can’t go wrong planning a trip around one of the roads mentioned above. Just make sure to obey the speed limit, wear the right protective gear, and stay on alert at all times, no matter which route you choose to take on your own motorcycle adventure.
