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Discover how to plan unforgettable scenic motorcycle routes, from finding the best roads and packing essentials to bike checks and riding safely.
Exploring the world on two wheels brings a unique sense of freedom. The connection to the road, the unfiltered view of the landscape, and the feeling of the wind are experiences car travel simply can’t replicate. A motorbike journey is an adventure in its purest form, turning a simple trip into a memorable expedition. However, the best rides don’t happen by accident. They need planning, preparation, and a bit of know-how to be as safe as they are exhilarating. This guide will walk you through everything you need to plan and enjoy the scenic ride of a lifetime.
With a bit of planning, your motorcycle journey can become the journey of a lifetime. Photo by Julian Henke on Unsplash
Finding the Best Scenic Motorcycle Routes
The first step to an unforgettable trip is finding a route worthy of the ride. While any road can be an adventure, certain stretches of pavement are legendary for their scenery, challenging curves, and overall experience. Think of a Midwest road trip, which offers a unique kind of fun. Iconic routes like the Pacific Coast Highway in California, the Stelvio Pass in Italy, or the Great Ocean Road in Australia are on many riders’ bucket lists for a reason. But you don’t have to travel across the globe to find an amazing ride; spectacular roads are hidden in nearly every region.
There are many ways to find the best and most scenic motorcycle routes around the world. Photo by welcomia via iStock by Getty Images
Modern technology makes discovering these routes easier than ever. Apps and websites curate and share routes submitted by fellow riders. These platforms often include details about road quality, difficulty, points of interest, and the best times to ride. You can filter by location, length, and ride type to find something that perfectly suits your plans.
Don’t underestimate old-school methods, either. Local rider forums, motorcycle clubs, and even the staff at a local bike shop can be goldmines of information, often revealing hidden gems that don’t show up on popular lists.
Navigating Twists and Turns
Scenic routes are rarely straight. The twists, turns, and elevation changes make them exciting, but they also demand skill and focus. Mastering cornering is key to both safety and enjoyment. The fundamental principle is to look where you want to go. Your bike will naturally follow your line of sight, so keep your eyes up and focused on the exit of the turn, not on the ground directly in front of you.
Scenic routes usually involve twists and turns, so it’s important to learn how to properly control your bike. Photo by Anna_Om via iStock by Getty Images
Proper technique combines several inputs. As you approach a corner, brake smoothly while upright, select the appropriate gear, and then initiate the turn by gently pushing on the inside handlebar, a technique known as counter-steering.
Maintain a steady throttle through the corner to keep the suspension settled and the bike stable. As you see the exit, you can gently roll on the throttle to stand the bike up and accelerate out of the turn. Your body position also matters; leaning with the bike into the turn lowers your combined center of gravity and improves stability. Practice these techniques in a familiar area before trying them on a challenging mountain pass.
Motorcycle Pre-Trip Checks Before You Ride
A reliable motorcycle is a safe motorcycle. Before you embark on any long-distance scenic tour, a thorough pre-trip inspection is essential. Breaking down in a remote area with no cell service can turn a dream trip into a nightmare. A simple, effective way to cover all your bases is to follow the T-CLOCS checklist: Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, and Stands.
Tires and Wheels: Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold. Make sure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Inspect the tread depth and look for any embedded objects or signs of damage.
Controls: Squeeze your brake and clutch levers to ensure they operate smoothly. Check your throttle for a crisp snap-back when you release it.
Lights and Electrics: Test your headlights (high and low beams), taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Give the horn a quick beep.
Oil and Fluids: Check your engine oil and other fluid levels, such as coolant and brake fluid. Top them off if necessary.
Chassis: Inspect the frame for any cracks. Check your chain for proper tension and lubrication, or your belt/driveshaft for wear. Test the suspension by pushing down on the front and rear of the bike.
Stands: Make sure your side stand and center stand (if you have one) operate correctly and retract fully.
Beyond the mechanical checks, preparing for the unexpected is just as crucial. Just as you wouldn’t start a long journey without checking your tires, you also need the right protection. A comprehensive policy like Carole Nash Ireland bike insurance can provide breakdown assistance and legal protection, which are invaluable if something goes wrong far from home.
Do a full safety inspection before your trip and make sure you have adequate motorcycle insurance. Photo by Victor Manuel Mulero Ramirez via iStock by Getty Images
Packing Essentials for Comfort
What you pack, and how you pack it, can make a huge difference in your enjoyment of a long ride. The key is to pack smart, not heavy. Weight affects your bike’s handling, so bring only what you truly need and distribute the load evenly. Use a combination of saddlebags, a tail bag, and a tank bag to keep the weight balanced and low.
Your riding gear is the most important thing you’ll pack. Always prepare for changing weather by dressing in layers. A breathable base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell will keep you comfortable across a wide range of temperatures. A good rain suit isn’t optional; it’s essential. Even a brief downpour can leave you soaked and cold for hours.
Beyond clothing, a few small items can significantly improve your comfort. High-fidelity earplugs will protect your hearing from wind noise without blocking important sounds like sirens. A hydration pack makes it easy to drink water without stopping, helping you stay hydrated and focused. For your electronics, a phone mount and a portable power bank are indispensable for navigation and communication.
Staying Safe on the Open Road
Safety on a motorbike trip extends far beyond pre-ride checks and riding technique. It’s an ongoing mindset that you must maintain for the entire journey. The number one rule is ATGATT: All The Gear, All The Time. This means a certified helmet, a proper riding jacket with armor, riding pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves, every single time you get on the bike. Your gear is your primary line of defense in an accident.
Ensure you have the proper safety gear before you get on the bike—every single time. Photo by kitzcorner via iStock by Getty Images
Fatigue is one of the biggest threats on a long ride. The constant focus, wind, and vibration can wear you out faster than you think. Plan to take a break at least every 90 minutes to two hours. Get off the bike, walk around, stretch, and rehydrate. Know your daily limit and stick to it. Pushing for extra miles when you’re tired is a recipe for a mistake. It’s better to arrive at your destination a day late than not at all.
Finally, practice defensive riding at all times. Assume you are invisible to other drivers and position yourself in their mirrors. Maintain a safe following distance to give yourself time to react to sudden stops. Scan the road ahead for potential hazards like potholes, gravel, or animals. On group rides, maintain a staggered formation to give everyone space, and use clear hand signals to communicate your intentions. A safe ride is a fun ride, and staying alert and prepared helps you ensure your adventure is memorable for all the right reasons.
A well-planned motorbike tour is one of travel’s greatest joys. It’s an opportunity to connect with the world around you in a deeply personal and thrilling way. With the right preparation and a focus on safety, every journey becomes less about the destination and more about the incredible ride itself.
Keep Exploring the Open Road
There’s something irresistible about discovering a destination from the open road. Whether your perfect journey unfolds on two wheels or four, Wander With Wonder has plenty of inspiration for the miles ahead. Explore our favorite road trips, scenic drives, unexpected stops, and travel tips to help you plan an adventure where getting there is every bit as memorable as the destination.
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