Top 5 motorcycle roadtrip destinations (2016 list, still inspiring in 2026)

Motorcycle roadtrip season is never really over—only the map changes. This 2016 selection remains a strong starting point if you’re choosing your next ride based on one simple criterion: places where the road itself is part of the experience. From big-sky America to the tight bends of Corsica, from Romania’s Carpathian switchbacks to Laos’ rugged backroads, these five destinations cover very different riding styles. Below, each pick comes with what makes it special, why it matters on a bike, and when/where to stop to get the best out of it.

#1 — United States

What it feels like: Scale. The kind that makes you rethink what a “long day” on a motorcycle really is. Deserts, forests, coastal highways, open plains—states can feel like separate countries.

Why it matters on a bike: The US is made for iconic cross-country riding, with long, readable roads and a culture that welcomes riders. It’s the home of the great “myth routes,” starting with Route 66, where the rhythm is as important as the mileage.

Where/when to stop: Give yourself time to ride early and stop often—especially in the Southwest where heat and wind can drain you faster than expected. In places like Monument Valley or the high deserts of Arizona and New Mexico, plan for big temperature swings between morning and late afternoon.

#2 — Canada

What it feels like: Space and silence—broken by turquoise lakes, endless forests, and mountain walls that appear suddenly after hours of rolling asphalt.

Why it matters on a bike: Canada is a dream for riders who like steady pacing and big nature. The Rockies deliver classic mountain riding with long climbs, wide curves, and dramatic viewpoints. If you’re aiming for that “from peaks to Pacific” feeling, start here: discover the Rocky Mountains.

Where/when to stop: In the Rockies, mornings can be cold even when afternoons are warm. Wildlife is real—ride with extra margin at dawn and dusk. Fuel stations can be far apart outside main corridors; topping up early is a simple habit that saves stress later.

#3 — Corsica (France)

What it feels like: A compact island that rides like a full continent—sea on one side, mountains on the other, with constant changes in grip, altitude, and scenery.

Why it matters on a bike: Corsica is all about corners and contrast. You can spend the morning climbing into cooler air, then end the day by the Mediterranean. For a ride that balances mountain roads and coastal breaks, this is a classic: ride Corsica between sea and mountains.

Where/when to stop: Start your riding days early to avoid the busiest coastal traffic. Inland routes can be narrow and technical; keep your daily distances realistic. A smart cadence is two riding blocks (morning + late afternoon) and a long mid-day stop—your focus stays sharp, and you’ll actually enjoy the island rather than chasing kilometers.

#4 — Romania

What it feels like: A Balkan crossroads with real variety: plains, rolling hills, and mountain roads that have earned their reputation among riders.

Why it matters on a bike: Romania offers that rare mix: rewarding asphalt, cultural depth, and a sense of “still undiscovered” in places. The Carpathians are the headline, with legendary routes like the Transfăgărășan (often on riders’ bucket lists). For inspiration and itineraries, start here: motorcycle rides in Romania.

Where/when to stop: In the mountains, weather can change fast—fog and rain can roll in without warning, making visibility and braking distances the real challenge. Keep a flexible plan and don’t force a pass late in the day if conditions turn.

#5 — Laos

What it feels like: Mountainous, raw, and deeply atmospheric—temples, river valleys, and rural tracks where the ride is as much about patience as it is about scenery.

Why it matters on a bike: Laos rewards riders who enjoy mixed conditions and remote stretches. It’s less about speed, more about immersion: villages, jungle hills, and long days where you measure progress in hours, not distance. A strong entry point is this off-the-beaten-path traverse: Ho Chi Minh trail track crossing.

Where/when to stop: The classic riding window is the drier season (often October to April). Expect rougher road surfaces outside main axes and plan for offline navigation—signal can be inconsistent in the mountains. Hydration matters more than you think in humid heat, especially when you’re riding slow and working the bike.

Mini-guide: how to choose the right destination (without overplanning)

• If you want myth + comfort logistics: the United States (especially for a Route 66 motorcycle roadtrip).
• If you want wilderness + long, calm days: Canada and the Rockies.
• If you want tight riding + sea/mountain contrast in a short timeframe: Corsica.
• If you want great roads + cultural depth with fewer crowds: Romania and the Carpathians.
• If you want adventure pace + remote backroads: Laos.

Planet Ride pro tip: Whatever the destination, design your days so the hardest riding happens early. Fatigue compounds late in the afternoon—especially on technical roads (Corsica, Carpathians) or rougher surfaces (Laos). A “shorter but cleaner” day is often what makes a roadtrip unforgettable instead of just exhausting.

FAQ

Is a Route 66 motorcycle roadtrip doable in 2 weeks?

Yes, but it’s tight if you want time off the bike. It’s better to plan a focused section, or add buffer days so you’re not riding long hours every day.

What’s the best season for a motorcycle roadtrip in Laos?

Many riders target the drier months (often October to April). Heat and humidity still matter—build in slower days if you’re riding off the main roads.

Do I need offline navigation for these destinations?

It helps everywhere, but it becomes critical in remote areas (parts of Canada, mountain Romania, rural Laos). Download offline maps before you leave and keep a charging plan for your phone/GPS.

À savoir aujourd’hui

This 2016 selection is still relevant because the riding fundamentals haven’t changed: iconic routes in the US, vast nature in Canada, technical bliss in Corsica, mountain drama in Romania, and raw adventure in Laos. What must be checked before departure in 2026: local road conditions, seasonal closures in mountain regions, and any entry/insurance requirements tied to your nationality and vehicle.