California Has Some of the Best Motorcycle Rides
Motorcycle enthusiasts in Northern California have a plethora of options for beautiful rides with all sorts of different types of scenery – misty mountains, dense forests, redwoods, winding roads alongside the ocean, even barren desertland. Let’s look at some of the top rides in Northern/Central California. This list doesn’t even begin to touch on everything California has to offer motorcyclists.
Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway
The Big Sur region provides both mountain and Pacific Ocean views. Ride past roaming zebras near Hearst Castle in San Simeon as you head north or travel south through the Monterey and Carmel winery regions. The winding coastal route will offer a cliff on one side with ocean views on the other. The Bixby Bridge in Big Sur is a must-stop photo opportunity. You may recognize it from several Harley Davidson ads. Along this route, you will find limited gas stops, and as such, the fuel can be overpriced. Plan accordingly. Also, try to find a time that the route will be less populated – avoid holidays and weekends for a better shot at being able to ride at your own pace.
Point Reyes
Point Reyes provides twists, turns, and stunning California views. Get there by heading North on Highway 1 after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. The signs will indicate Muir Woods and Stinson Beach. There are some similarities to the Big Sur route, except that you will be surrounded by redwood giants during the first half of the journey. The curvy slopes of Mount Tamalpais will provide interest as you continue on Highway 1 to Point Reyes Station. Take Pierce Point Road through the Tule Elk Reserve and follow it until you come to the end of the pavement. The bumps toward the end will pay off with spectacular coastal views and access to a couple of secluded beaches.
Highway 84 / Woodside Road
Highway 84, also known as Woodside Road, is a popular route up into the mountains. Taking the road west, you will enjoy 20 miles of 15-25 mph twisty curves with redwoods on either side. Once you reach the mountain’s peak, you end at a popular motorcyclist destination: Alice’s Restaurant. If it’s a weekend morning, the spot should be filled with other riding enthusiasts. After breakfast, continue west and descend into farmland that will see you through to the coast.
Page Mill Road
If you are looking for a really twisty ride, try Page Mill Road, which is a bit south of Highway 84. It is one of the more challenging rides in the area. Take Page Mill from Palo Alto and head nine miles to the mountain range peak of Skyline Boulevard. Heading west on Page Mill, you will hit 5-10 mph curves that let you feel the power of your bike as you climb. The route is more popular with sports bikes, but many cruisers tackle it as well.
Watch the YouTube video featuring two brothers exploring California’s Highway 1 on their bikes.
Rio Vista Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Hello, and thank you for reading. I’m Ed Smith, a motorcycle accident attorney in Rio Vista, California. Most bike enthusiasts practice the utmost care and safety while on motorcycle rides. However, you cannot always rely upon others with whom you share the roads to do the same. Motorcycle accidents can cause severe injuries, and if you are involved in one, you will need an experienced motorcycle injury lawyer. Please reach out to my law firm for compassionate, free, and friendly legal advice at (707) 564-1900. If you will be calling from outside the local area code, use our toll-free number: (800) 404-5400. Alternatively, you may fill out our online form.
I have been advocating on behalf of injured Rio Vista residents for more than 38 years.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/landscape-mountain-scenery-nature-5813903/
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