There’s something distinctly satisfying about traveling on a motorbike, whether it’s the heightened sense of freedom or the amplified feeling of adventure. Nature’s elegance has never felt this close. With so much to experience, from the splendid coastlines to open skies and long open highways and twisty roads, it’s hard to say no to an exciting motorcycle road trip. If you’re planning the ultimate road trip on a motorcycle, you’ll definitely want to include some of the best destinations for touring bike enthusiasts across the U.S. 

But what makes a destination great for riders? Depending on who you ask, it could be gorgeous scenery, historic site diversions, or twists and turns that serve as a test of skill. Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned veteran, nothing beats the thrill of exploring on your v-twin touring cruiser bike. Before we get into our top destinations for a motorcycle enthusiast in the U.S., here are a few must-have items for an unforgettable bike trip.

What To Take On A Bike Trip

Preparation is critical before any road trip on a motorcycle. Whether you’ve been planning the trip for months or just decided to hit the road with friends, there’s some motorcycle road trip gear you should have. Aside from the must-haves like your license and bike insurance, accessories like a good map and a GPS navigation unit will keep you on track if anything goes wrong.

Ensure you have a repair tool kit with you at all times. Anything can happen, from flat tires to engine problems. 

Remember to have a small first aid kit in case of injury. You should carry an emergency communication device, which may come in handy should anything happen to your phone. You’ll need personal sanitary items and clothing if you’re not planning to return home. Also, don’t forget to carry your best travel accessories but only pack what’s necessary. Space may be limited on your cruiser bike, but there are numerous ways to improvise.

Once everything is in place, you’re now ready to head out for a fun-filled adventure. Here are the top five places to go on your motorcycle in the U.S:

1. The Deal’s Gap Tennessee: Tail Of The Dragon

If you’re looking for a thrilling ride, then this legendary 11-mile route is just for you. With 318 curves jam-packed into the relatively short stretch, new motorcycle riders and die-hard enthusiasts make their way here to test their cornering skills. Make no mistake: the road is adequately maintained, but plenty of steep exhilarating drop-offs and hair-raising turns are available.

Fortunately, no trucks are allowed on the road, spanning the Deal’s Gap on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. It has had its fair share of annual crashes, and it’s advisable just to go and enjoy the ride and not try to prove your bravado. Remember to slow down on a trail and take in the beautiful view of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park before or after your ride.

2. Utah: The Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument Ride

If geology is one of your interests, then you’ll love the Scenic Byway 12 in Utah. As its most commonly referred to, The Grand Staircase is a 124-mile stretch of fascinating scenery stretching through Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Petrified Forest National Parks. No other place comes close to the geological scenery in this route. From breathtaking cliffs to spectacular canyons and multicolored rock formations, everywhere you look simply takes your breath away.

If you’re planning to travel here, plan for at least a two-day trip to savor every moment. Luckily, the place is home to many Native Americans, and therefore, you can easily find accommodation. While there, you can take a break from geological exploration and visit the national parks. Try to ride out over Bryce Canyon during sunrise or sunset for a mind-blowing view. If you plan on hiking, make sure you carry a hiking survival kit.

3. Beartooth Highway: US 212

The Beartooth Highway is the perfect motorcycle trip destination, located in central Wyoming and southern Montana. With an excellent balance of exciting switchbacks and breathtaking views, the 68-mile stretch offers nothing but utter bliss. The roller-coaster ride begins at Red Lodge, Montana, and zig-zags through Wyoming, ending in Cooke City, a gateway into Yellowstone National Park.

Make sure you carry a good camera because those stunning views are to die for. From high alpine meadows blooming in the summer at the Shoshone National Forests to snowy mountain reflections on roadside lakes, there’s a lot to see. You could see plenty of wildlife, depending on the time of year. Be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand: you wouldn’t want to be caught in bad weather while on a remote section of the stretch.

4. The Pacific Coast Highway

Cruising through this scenic route with the fresh sea breeze hitting your face is as relaxing as it is thrilling. California’s coastal highway offers a myriad of magical sceneries coupled with sheer drop-offs and skill-testing turns. The crashing surf and calming beaches of the Big Sur section of the highway are a must-see, and there are plenty of incredible spots for that once-in-a-lifetime photograph.

The Big Sur is only just a section of the highway, which spans 655 miles. It’s the perfect vacation destination for any die-hard cruiser bike enthusiast, with plenty of accommodation stops along the stretch. Cruise through San Diego, Monterey, and Los Angeles, all while taking in the diversity of nature. Avoid summer weekends, which tend to be overcrowded, and ensure your motorcycle is fitted with a windshield to traverse the windy conditions.

5. Natchez Trace Parkway

Culture, history, and scenic appeal: that’s what this 444-mile roadway offers. Before being built in the early 1900s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this route was previously a buffalo migration route. It later advanced into a migration route for Native Americans and is lined with cultural artifacts and monuments, ranging from civil war battle sites to ghost towns. You can also make a few stopovers at places such as the Fall Hollow or the cypress swamps.

Seemingly endless farmlands and forests constitute the natural scenery on the roadside. The road also has its fair share of steep drop-offs and hairpin turns, though they aren’t as many as in Deal’s Gap or Beartooth Pass. You can enjoy a comfortable ride knowing there are no trucks allowed, nor are there any stop signs. Be sure to carry supplies  — there are very few commercial service stations along the road, but there’s plenty of accommodation stops.

Staying Safe On Your Motorcycle

There’s no denying that stepping out on your v-twin cruiser bike is a thrilling experience. However, the harsh reality is that riding a motorcycle can be extremely dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken. According to the United States Department of Transportation, crashing as a bike rider is 30 times more likely to be fatal than crashing as a motorist. As such, it makes sense to take precautions as a motorcyclist. Remember, preparation is critical.

Inspect your cruiser bike before taking it for a spin. You also need to take a safety course beforehand and know the road rules for motorcycles. Wear the appropriate motorcycle gear, including a helmet, goggles, a leather jacket, non-slip gloves, and appropriate shin pads. Drive as per the speed limit, and don’t forget to use signals when turning. Wear reflective clothing, especially if you’re riding at night, and remain observant at all times. 

Ride Out Into A Fun-filled Adventure

With today’s busy lifestyle, it’s normal to be so engrossed in work that you don’t have time to sit back and relax. Despite this, you need to find time to rejuvenate. Take that leave of absence from work or give yourself a break if you’re self-employed and get your motorbike out of the garage and head out for a joyous adventure. Remember, you travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape you. Go ahead and hit the road, and tag along with friends for even more fun. 

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