There are some qualities which make a road motorcycle-friendly and provide an unforgettable experience. Smooth surface is one of the most important factors: unless they are into off-road adventure, bikers appreciate tarmac! Stunning views are an added bonus. Nice twisty routes are always a favourite: cornering and leaning is part of the fun and a reason why people choose to ride a motorbike. These 6 roads – the best biking roads – are all about the journey although the destinations are great too!
1. Stelvio Pass – Italy
The highest paved road in the Eastern Alps, the Stelvio Pass is located at an elevation of 2758m above sea level. It is not one for the faint-hearted as driving on this road takes you through 60 thrilling hairpin bends in total and 14% gradients but you are guaranteed spectacular mountain views.
Try it around September time to ensure the best experience: it is likely to be less busy but the weather should still be decent. This road is not one for a rainy day!
This is how to do it:
2. Adriatic Highway – Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The majority of the highway comprises of the Croatian D8 state road. The turquoise waters of the Croatian coast and mountainous landscape make this route one of the most scenic drives in Europe. The total length of the road through Croatia is 643.1 kilometres (399.6 mi) and it stretches from Zadar to Dubrovnik and continues further south to Montenegro.
It is impossible to get bored as there are plenty of bends and varieties of landscape: from climbing up to the edge of a cliff to flat drives at sea level.
3. Trollstigen, Norway
Steep 9% incline, 11 hairpin turns and sharp bends make this mountain pass a challenging but beautiful ride.
Any vehicle longer than 12.4m is not allowed to drive on this road so you don’t have to worry about lorries or buses blocking your views.
4. N240, Spain
Heaven for the less adventurous types not too keen on hairpin switchbacks (the author included), this road takes you through sweeping bends revealing the beautiful landscape of the Pyrenees on every corner.
Expect lakes, valleys and hills and be prepared to stop for photos a lot!
5. The Isle of Man TT Circuit, UK
Home to the famous Isle of Man Tourist Trophy motorcycle race – the most dangerous of its kind in the world, these are roads every biker wants to ride at least once in their life.
The 37.73 mile of public roads through small villages and over mountains change into a racing track at least twice a year (June and August) so you will not get much riding done then. Any other time, it is just a regular series of roads…with no national speed limits in much of the mountain course.
6. Route 66, USA
Because you’ll regret not doing it: songs have been written about it and films made, there is no doubt that the (now Historic) Route 66 is one of the most iconic journeys in the world.
There are festivals, car shows and markets along the way so plenty of entertainment is guaranteed all year round. Some of the great American outdoors are stretched along the way including the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest National Park as well as quirky attractions such as the Cadillac Ranch.
Main image by Marta Safin
