5 of the best motorcycle rides in Australia
This article was originally published in June 2018 and updated in June 2023.
Many Aussie roads feel purpose built for motorcycle riding, but some stand out. From scenic bends across mountain ranges, adventures through rainforests and cruising alongside the ocean, these are our top picks for an unforgettable ride.
1. The Oxley Highway from Wauchope to Walcha, NSW
This 163km stretch features exhilarating hairpin turns up and over the famous Great Dividing Range through thick rainforest and trees entwined in vines.
This ride not only offers breathtaking scenery including mountain views, it also offers a variety of corners making it a truly enjoyable ride.
Late spring or early summer is likely to offer ideal riding weather for most looking to take this bucket-list trip. This timing usually not only offers a comfortable warm temperature but is also likely to be early enough to beat the start of the rainy season.
2. The Great Ocean Road, VIC
Our team votes this as one of the most beautiful roads in Australia with around 120km of smooth asphalt stretching from Torquay to Glanaire, past the 12 Apostles.
While beautiful, it can be challenging for some riders. Look out for congested convoys of tourists stopping and starting along the way for photo opportunities. Roads are narrow, and the buses can be wide, so riding carefully and staying alert to vehicles is key.
Related article: Motorcycle safety: 5 tips for street riding
3. The Black Spur, VIC
Famed for its lush tall rainforests and giant ferns lining the road, this 30km ride lies between the towns of Healesville and Narbethong and is part of the Maroondah Highway.
Sweeping corners and thick surrounding foliage offer an unforgettable ride for motorcycle riders looking for a unique experience. On this road, riders navigate directly through the middle of a rainforest, underneath a canopy.
This can be a popular spot though and attract more drivers during weekends and summer months. So, stay alert in the tight turns if you’re riding in peak times.
4. Kangaroo Valley, NSW
There’s a couple of pretty routes to Kangaroo Valley that are also fun to ride. But riding via the Macquarie Pass will offer a view of an 822m waterfall that can add a truly special highlight to your trip.
The 8km section of the Illawarra Highway is a climb up a single-lane, twisty road that takes you the lookout at Fitzroy Falls.
Related article: The state of motorcycle theft in Australia and how to prevent it
5. The Lions Road, Scenic Rim, QLD
The Lions Road is a stunning 96km link from Beaudesert to Kyogle in the Scenic Rim region of the Queensland hinterland, and is well known in the bike world.
This trip is ideal for adventure seekers. It takes riders through local towns, the rainforests of Border Ranges National Park and Running Creek and Grady’s Creek.
Get your motorcycle insurance in place before you hit the road
Comprehensive motorcycle insurance can provide protection if things don’t go to plan. It can cover damage to your bike and other people’s property. Plus, it typically includes cover for accidental damage, theft, fire, legal liability and more.