Riding

5 of the Safest Routes for Solo Motorcycle Riders

Ryan Miller
Published: August 14, 2023 Edited: June 27, 2025

Group riding is great, but there’s nothing quite like a solo road trip on your motorcycle when you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, and nothing is holding you back. While it might be a better option for a more experienced rider, if you’re a beginner, consider venturing a little further on your own. Cycle Trader is sharing five of the safest routes for solo motorcycle riders to experience the freedom of the open road.

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Be Safe When You’re Solo

Remember, you’ll be out on your own when you hit the road, so take precautions for safety to have an amazing road trip. Keep your guard up and drive defensively; look out for bad weather conditions, especially heavy rain, thunderstorms, wildfires, and floods; plan your route around road closures and traffic jams; know the local riding laws if you’re crossing state lines; and have a backup plan in case there’s an emergency on the road. Keep a first-aid kit, tools for on-the-go repairs, and roadside service info with you in case you’re stopped somewhere. 

Safe Routes for Solo Motorcycle Riders

What makes a solo ride that’s safe but still adventurous? It might be backroads that take you through small towns in the countryside, or wide-open spaces with scenic views away from other drivers. When you set out, plan your trip and book ahead of time for accommodations if you’re taking a long-distance journey.

1. Big Sur, California

West Coast cruising is best along California Highway 1 at Big Sur, a perfect route for a solo biker ready to relax and ride. The road stretches 90 miles between Monterey County and San Luis Obispo along the Pacific, with winding bends, stretches of straight highways, and dramatic drop-offs along the coastline. While riding on the edge of cliffs and over the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge seems daring, you’ve got plenty of space, free from congestion.

2. Hudson Valley, New York

You’re free to roam on your own in the Hudson River Valley in New York, with 80 miles to drive that take you upstate through the Catskills either on Interstate 87 or Highway 9. Motorcyclists can explore communities dotted along the valleys and river, and take in the elevated views while riding over suspension bridges. This route might be best in the summer to cool off, or during autumn when the mountainside is blanketed in fall colors.

3. Idaho Grand Loop

If you’re looking for a longer adventure, the Idaho Grand Loop traverses six states with 2,549 miles of riding at high speeds. Start your trip in Salt Lake City, Utah before you roll through Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Montana. This scenic getaway takes you through mountain chains, over rolling hills, river crossings, and charming small towns that welcome bikers.

4. Florida Keys

There are more than 100 miles of road spanning the Florida Keys, plus an overseas highway with a panoramic view of the clear blue waters. You can ride this solo but meet plenty of friendly locals at a number of biker bars along the way. Take this drive in paradise at any time of the year all the way to your final destination at Key West for leisurely riding, with plenty of hotels and camping nearby on the route.

5. Monument Valley, Arizona

It’s hard to beat an adventure in Monument Valley, and you’ll feel special doing it all by yourself as you ride the loop between the buttes, mesas, and red sand desert. Based in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, this iconic gem in northern Arizona has been seen in dozens of movies, Currently, Monument Valley has imposed restrictions for motorcycling due the inclement weather of peak season, so check with the park for the latest motorcycling policies and tours when they are available.

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These are five safe ways to take a ride by yourself, leave your cares behind, and feel the thrills of motorcycling. Make plans for your next trip and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the ride. When it comes to finding your next motorcycle, check out all the new and used bikes available from sellers around the country at CycleTrader.com.

Ryan Miller's profile picture Ryan Miller
Ryan Miller provides editorial support for Trader Interactive, including the company's core commercial brands.