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What’s better than flying down the open road with the sun on your back? If you’re a regular motorcycle rider, you know very well that thrilling feeling of freedom and adventure. With only a seat separating you from the road, and nature all around you, motorcycle rides can be akin to a transcendental experience. Whether you’re ready to experience the world on two wheels for the first time, or you’re already an experienced rider, check out these must-drive routes around the world.
AMAZING MOTORCYCLE RIDES
Tail of the Dragon, North Carolina
Right here in our own neck of the woods is one of the world’s most famous and traveled-to motorcycle destinations: Tail of the Dragon. Officially designated Highway 129, the 11-mile stretch of asphalt contains over 300 curves and doesn’t intersect with any other roads. While the route does not offer much in the way of beautiful scenery, the main appeal is the road itself, making it an amazing motorcycle ride. Motorcyclists have been riding this particular path for over 75 years, thrilling themselves with its twists and turns. If you visit, be sure to stop in the Tail of the Dragon shack for your t-shirt proclaiming your success. Stay in nearby Bryson City for a great weekend.
Pacific Coast Highway, California to Oregon
The Pacific Coast Highway, known colloquially as the PCH, stretches from Southern California up into Washington. Nearly the entire 1,650 miles of asphalt offer stunning views, from San Diego’s beaches to the green forests of Oregon. The highway remains mostly two lanes for the majority of the stretch. This ride is smooth sailing, perfect for meditating on nature.
Havana Loop, Cuba
Che Guevera may have made Cuba famous for its motorcycle potential with his memoirs, The Motorcycle Diaries (who didn’t envy Gael Garcia Bernard’s job starring in the film version?). However, the country is still a prime spot for amazing motorcycle rides. Havana is home to tons of motorcycle tour companies that will guide you through and around Cuba. You can rent a bike there, or if you’d rather bring your home from home but don’t know how to go about getting it there, Shiply can make your life easier.
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast—are you having visions of Vespas whipping round the curves of the hill overlooking the gorgeous blue ocean, the taste of red wine and rich olives on your tongue? Take Italian sight-seeing up a level when you ride up close and personal through seaside villages. The best part, perhaps, is that you can stop to soak up the sun and enjoy fresh pasta and cheese in between the legs of your trip.
Northern Loop, Laos
If you’re looking for something more off-road and raw, then consider one of several amazing motorcycle rides through Laos. Less developed than other locations on this list, Laos’ incredibly welcoming people and breathtaking landscapes deliver a unique rugged experience. Travel through this area’s hilly countryside typically begins or ends in Luang Prabang, the ancient capital, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ride through remote mountain villages, see iron-age megaliths at the Plain of Jars, or even all the way towards the Viet Nam border to explore the war-time caves at Vieng Xai.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Last but not least, add the Great Ocean Road to your bucket list of motorcycle trips. Considered one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, the road is situated against the Southern Ocean and offers glimpses of wildlife, whipping winds, and beautiful limestone reaching out from the sea. If you’re a surfer, take a break from your ride to rent a board and catch some waves before you head back around cliffs and curves. The views from this road make for an amazing motorcycle ride.
Now that you know where to go, remember to bring a helmet, money for tolls, and the thirst for adventure. If you’re lucky, you have a riding partner to keep you company.
Happy riding!
Annick, The Common Traveler
Do you like going on motorcycle rides? Let me know in a comment below!
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.