In an age where we head out on expeditions with our home on our back, why not consider a pleasant middle ground between sporty bike touring and van life? Adventure motorcycling, the new favorite of two-wheeled explorers, seems like the perfect in-between for those who want to cover vast distances quickly, travel freely, and stay connected to nature. Here’s a reflection on the symbolism of the motorcycle road trip—and a simple idea to try the adventure for yourself.
Road Trip: Never Translated, Yet So Evocative
We still haven’t found a translation that truly captures all the nuances of this anglicism. You’d need to condense “hitting the road as the mood strikes” to get close to the philosophy behind it. Because the heart of the expedition lies in taking to the road. It’s about the journey itself, with the destination being secondary.
A road trip is a form of nomadism where each traveler sets their own rules. But it’s a nomadism that inherently evokes laid-back adventure, spontaneity, and independence—with a touch of nonconformity. However, as this trend grows more popular, it’s starting to lose a bit of its “offbeat” character. Authorities are gradually putting some structure in place, especially around where travelers can spend the night. Let’s see that in a positive light! As a safeguard that can help this style of travel endure without causing harm.
Bike Trip: One Step Closer to Adventure
Imagine the crisp morning air, ocean spray, and the scent of forests always surrounding you… That’s the special bonus motorcycling brings! Plus, you can cover hundreds of kilometers a day, carry all your camping gear neatly packed on your luggage racks, and squeeze through almost anywhere. You can even ride two-up on a single bike! Not only is it a great way to stay together, but it’s also an eco-conscious move that your wallet will love.
Another great advantage of adventure riding is its dual-sport or off-road nature. That means you can ride on both paved roads and rough dirt trails. You can leave the highway to cross sandy deserts or small streams… Yes, we’re talking about truly “going off the beaten path”! Isn’t it amazing to be able to turn onto that little gravel road leading to the cliffside campground reserved for the most adventurous? I’ll share the address later!
No Need to Go Far to Feel Like You’ve Escaped
Just traveling differently brings contrast and novelty. I suggest trying a simple 3–4-day ride that’s easy to organize. How about a getaway to the Laurentians? We chose the Mont-Tremblant National Park, just 30 minutes from home. Even though we visit it often, exploring it on a dual-sport motorcycle opened up a new route and helped us discover many quiet hidden corners!
From there, you can continue through the Rouge-Matawin Wildlife Reserve, then head to the well-known Kiamika Regional Park. There’s no doubt you’ll be charmed by this “well-kept secret, stunning and wild” as it calls itself. You’ll find plenty of camping options, water activities, fishing, hiking… and best of all, lakes just for you—adventurers on two wheels! This is the perfect little bike trip to immerse yourself in nature.
Don’t have a motorcycle suited for travel and love sharing the adventure? Some companies like B46 Adventures can help make that dream come true!
Looking for Motorcycle Road Trip Ideas?
If this gave you chills and you’re itching to ride, don’t miss my upcoming articles on adventure motorcycle road trips. You’ll find practical tips, epic new destinations, and the address of that oceanfront campground…
