BUCKET-LIST BIKING (and how to do it best)
Ask a British rider to describe their dream two-wheel holiday and many will say North America. Here are the three best ways to make it happen.
It’s never been easier to have a big adventure on a motorcycle. The amount of companies offering motorcycle tours has increased and the quality of their offerings has come on a lot in recent years, too. North America is probably the most popular destination and, although you can choose from a broad selection of bikes, many people still see a Harley as the best way to go.
If you fancy a go then there are two options; get an organised operator to sort it for you (most can provide a fully guided or self-guided option) or sort it all out yourself. The left-field additional method would be to ship your own bike over there, but the cost and timescale involved mean this only really works for much longer trips than a two-week tour. Best option for you will depend on budget, bravery and the amount of time you have to organise things.
Why you need to ride America
But, before you choose, what is that makes America so special? Forget the clichés about never-ending straight roads, boring Harleys and no decent corners. You will be amazed just how many of the USA’s back roads are twice as stunning as anything you’ll find in Europe. Once you’re out of the towns you’ll find mile after mile of well-surfaced, challengingbut-predictable, twisting, country back roads as well as the stereotype horizon-chasing, never-ending blacktop. Then there’s the scenery, the light, the mountains, the lakes and the wildlife. Oh, and the people and the food and the easygoing nature of most things over there.
Choose the right state and you’ll also have perfect riding weather, plus cheap fuel (how does 65p per litre sound?) and a surprising amount of fascinating history all around you. Riding in America really can offer everything from crazy, big-city commuting (everyone should ride through Los Angeles at least once – you’ll never experience anything like it) to absolute solitude and the sense of freedom that only comes with being in the middle of the middle of nowhere – just you, and a coyote for company. They even speak the same language (the people, that is).