The Best Motorcycle Routes in Australia: A Rider’s Guide

Australia is a dream destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. Its diverse landscape, from snow-capped mountains to sun-drenched beaches, offers a unique adventure on every route. 

Challenge yourself on winding roads, test your skills against the vast outback, and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious newcomer, this wide brown land’s roads are calling. Let us take you on an epic road trip across this gorgeous country we call home.

The Best Australian Motorcycle Routes

Australia’s diverse landscapes ignite the soul of every rider. From dusty red deserts to winding coastal roads that hug the ocean, there are endless inspiring vistas to see. Whether you’re an enthusiast of family-friendly trails or adrenaline-pumping mountain passes, Australia offers the best bike ride for every taste and skill level. Year-round riding seasons let you chase the sun or embrace the thrill of a cold-weather adventure. 

1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

This could very well be one of the best motorcycling roads in the world. It offers everything a rider could want: from hillside drives to winding forest roads, complete with an absolutely breathtaking view of the ocean. And to top it all off, you can also stop and view one of our most famous natural landmarks, the Twelve Apostles. This iconic 243km stretch of asphalt hugging Victoria’s coastline is a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast.

2. The Great Alpine Road, Victoria

The Great Alpine Road stretches for about 300km through Victoria’s stunning alpine region, taking in Mount Hotham along the way. With plenty of twists and thrilling ascents and descents, the Great Alpine Road makes for a fantastic road trip. It also offers you the best of both worlds, featuring stunning mountain scenery as well as coastal vistas. The only thing to be aware of is that the weather in this area can change suddenly during winter, being an alpine region that can experience heavy snowfall. Also, the road is sometimes closed in particularly bad weather, so make sure you check the weather forecast before you head out. 

3. Alpine Way, New South Wales

Brace yourself for a backcountry track that’s as thrilling as it is beautiful. This 120km-long road takes you through the Snowy Mountains along the border of NSW and Victoria. The elevation changes provide riders with spectacular scenery, with the highest point of the road being 1580m above sea level. While the Snowy Mountains area is most famous for its snow season, travelling through this part of the country in the warmer months means there’s less traffic and you still get to experience stunning sights. 

4. Thunderbolts Way, New South Wales

Step back on the historic Thunderbolts Way, a 305km journey through rugged mountains and ancient forests. Located in the Northern Tablelands of NSW, it’s named after one of our most famous bushrangers: the notorious Captain Thunderbolt himself. This is a great choice for motorcyclists as it is quite hilly once it passes over the Great Dividing Range. There are also plenty of beautiful spots for you to stop along the way and take in the pristine scenery. Just make sure you fuel up and pack plenty of supplies—the only towns along the way are Barrington and Nowendoc.

5. Lions Road, Queensland/New South Wales

The Lions Road in Queensland is a hidden gem for motorcyclists. This road was constructed back in the 1970s, and was built with the help of the local Lions Clubs—hence the name. Spanning about 100km, this route connects Queensland and New South Wales, weaving through rainforests and rolling hills. Along the way, stop at the welcoming rural town of Rathdowney, which is the perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. The road itself can be narrow, and for this reason riders should be mindful of their speed to avoid coming up on an unexpected bend too quickly.

6. The Gibb River Road, Western Australia

For experienced riders seeking an off-road adventure, the challenging 670km Gibb River Road awaits. This rugged track through the Kimberley region provides riders with views of stunning gorges, ancient baobabs, and breathtaking waterfalls. Prepare for river crossings, challenging terrain, and days immersed in pristine wilderness. This route in Western Australia is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards of incredible scenery are well worth the effort. 

Planning Your Australian Motorcycle Adventure

Embarking on a motorcycle trip across the stunning landscapes of Australia is an exhilarating experience. To make sure your adventure is as smooth as it is thrilling, here are five key points to consider before revving up your engine:

• • Motorcycle Maintenance: Ensure your bike is in top condition. Check the oil, brakes, tyres (including tread depth and pressure), and lights. A well-maintained bike is your best companion on the road.
  • Route Planning: Australia’s vast and varied terrain means you need a solid plan. Choose routes that match your skill level and check for any road closures or construction work. Don’t forget to note down fuel stops and rest areas along your chosen path.
  • Weather Check: Weather in Australia can be unpredictable, especially along some of the routes we’ve mentioned above. Always check the forecast for your route and plan accordingly. Pack rain gear for sudden downpours and breathable clothing for those warmer days.
  • Emergency Prep: Carry a basic first-aid kit and ensure your mobile phone is fully charged. It’s also wise to inform someone about your route and expected return time, especially if you’re planning a solo road trip.
  • Riding Gear: Make sure your gear is in good condition so that it can protect you from the elements or in the case of an accident. If you’re looking to find a bargain on second hand motorbike riding gear, make sure you check out what’s available on Gumtree. Featuring sellers from all across Australia, you can find a range of gear—such as leathers, helmets, boots and more—at fantastic prices.