Top Motorcycle Rides from Coast to Coast
Love to motorcycle? You're in good company. More than 8 million motorcycles are registered in the U.S. Some owners love the fuel efficiency and convenience motorcycles deliver. Others ride for a sense of community, culture, and history. And everyone values the freedom and fun experienced behind the bars of a bike.
Fortunately, owning a motorcycle is no longer a prerequisite for enjoying incredible road trips. Polaris Adventures can put you on the seat of a latest-model Indian Motorcycle to explore the nation on two wheels. From California to Florida or South Dakota to Texas, rent an Indian Motorcycle to experience the best motorcycle rides in the country.
Review the list and start making your travel plans. The open road awaits.
Note: Motorcycle licensing and endorsement requirements vary from state to state. Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles' national website for more information.
22 Memorable Motorcycle Rides
Ride: Historic Route 66 Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Embark on a journey along Route 66, the most renowned road in the nation, as you traverse over 400 miles of picturesque landscapes in Oklahoma. Your motorcycle awaits you at Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City. Visiting the Route 6 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum is a must for those passionate about motorcycles. Marvel at a collection of over 40 vintage bikes and memorabilia from the legendary Evil Knievel.
Another popular stop along the way is POPS - capture a photo of the iconic 66-foot illuminated soda bottle and choose from a staggering selection of over 700 sodas before continuing your journey.
If you're pressed for time, consider exploring the charming city, including the vibrant Bricktown entertainment district, which features a scenic canal, historical landmarks, murals, and notable local attractions.
Ride: Ride the Ozarks
Starting point: Rogers, Arkansas
Visit Heritage Indian Motorcycle to pick up a latest-model Challenger, Chieftain, Pursuit, Roadmaster, or Scout that you'll ride to explore the beautiful Ozarks, home to some of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the country: Twisted Lady, the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, and Ozark Moonshine Run among them.
When it's time to pull over and take a break, chances are good that you'll be able to catch one of the music or food festivals that happen frequently throughout the summer. And remember to dig into some BBQ. Getting Basted, City Butcher and Barbecue, and Skinners Ribs & BBQ are favorites.
Ride: Rocky Mountains Motorcycle Ride
Starting point: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Stunning routes branch out in every direction from Colorado Springs. If you only have a day to ride, head to the Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway in the foothills of the Rockies. Starting in Pueblo (about 40 minutes from Colorado Springs), you can venture through the San Isabel National Forest.
A road trip along this national scenic byway tells the history of the West, from the early days of American Indians, trappers, and explorers to thriving ranches and growing cities that dot the landscape today. Rent your bikes at Pikes Peak Indian Motorcycle.
Ride: Black Hills Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Sturgis, South Dakota
If America had a motorcycle epicenter, it would be Sturgis, South Dakota, home to the annual Sturgis Bike Rally attended by hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts every August. But beyond the world-renowned rally, the Black Hils region is still a bucket list-worthy motorcycle destination, and for good reason: Throughout the entire summer, you can cruise winding, well-maintained roads to destinations like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Devils Tower, the Bad Lands. Rent your bikes at Indian Motorcycle of Sturgis.
Ride: Albuquerque Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Albuquerque, New Mexico
The team at Indian Motorcycle of Albuquerque believes that there's no better way to soak in the region's rich history than on a bike, and they've curated the perfect ride to prove it. You'll explore New Mexico's largest city by riding through the modern downtown stretch before cruising Old Town Albuquerque, dating back to 1706.
Want to keep your rental for several days? Be sure to add the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway to your agenda. Starting in Taos, this remote loop will have you riding around Wheeler Peak (the highest mountain in New Mexico at 13,161-foot elevation) with endless desert and canyon views. Be sure to fill up your tank in Taos before you hit the road.
Ride: San Antonio Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Boerne, Texas
Explore the beautiful hill country of Texas with an Indian Motorcycle from Mission City Indian Motorcycle. After exploring the San Antonio riverwalk area, you'll love riding 60 miles north to the historic 1840s town of Luckenbach to immerse yourself in the ghost-town feel and the legendary country music scene. Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and Waylon Jennings have all performed here.
There are plenty of places to get off your bike and enjoy a great meal in Luckenbach but be sure to save room for dessert. In nearby Fredericksburg, a local family converted a house into the Fredericksburg Pie Company, serving delicious slices of chocolate, peach praline, apple, and more to people from all over the Texas hill country.
Ride: Chicago Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Elmhurst, Illinois
The great city of Chicago puts you within easy riding reach of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, making it a perfect starting point if you're exploring the Midwest. Even better? You can fly into O'Hare International Airport and take a taxi or rideshare the several minutes it takes to get to iMotorsports.
If you want to focus your exploration on the Windy City, the team at iMotorsports Chicago will listen to your interests and create a custom plan that maximizes your time and gets you to the sights you want to see most. Looking to see the best of this region throughout several days? It's hard to beat the 1,000-mile loop around Lake Michigan, which hits Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin as you ride through countless charming towns and see everything from sand dunes to cliffs to forests.
Ride: Wisconsin Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Muskego, Wisconsin
Indian Motorcycle of Metro Milwaukee is located next to Lake Michigan, making it easy to take a leisurely ride along the lakefront northward to the Cape Cod of the Midwest, Door County, always bustling with happy summer vacationers exploring the area's many boutiques, restaurants, and beaches. Want to stay closer to the city? The team at Indian Motorcycle of Metro Milwaukee will create a road trip that might include Miller Park (home of the Brewers), downtown shops, and restaurants along the water, depending on your interests.
Several other routes—including one through Amish country—provide more ways to enjoy your Milwaukee motorcycle rental.
Ride: Colorado Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Grand Junction, Colorado
Explore gorgeous western Colorado with a ride along the San Juan Skyway, including the iconic 25-mile Million Dollar Highway stretch. This famous road clings to the mountainside, delivering stunningly beautiful and dramatic views around every hairpin turn. You can accomplish a worthwhile ride in one day, but spending several days exploring this region of the country will be well worth your time. Pick your bike at Indian Motorcycle of Grand Junction.
Ride: Nashville Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Nashville, Tennessee
Music City Indian Motorcycle is ready to help you explore Nashville like never before. Avid country fans will love seeing the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and countless venues of all sizes to see up-and-coming performers and established stars. If country music isn't your speed, head out of town to explore the stunning natural beauty surrounding Nashville, including Radnor Lake State Park, where you can park your bike for a few hours of hiking.
Ride: Utah Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Draper, Utah
Utah ranks high with bikers looking for endless and scenic rides to explore. When renting a bike from Wasatch Indian Motorcycle in Draper, the sky's the limit for adventuring. Will you head south to explore Utah's famous National Parks, including Zion and Bryce Canyon? Or west to the Ashley National Forest? Or cruise the shops and restaurants of Salt Lake City, just 30 minutes away.
Whatever you're looking for, the crew at Wasatch Indian Motorcycle is happy to program the perfect itinerary into your onboard navigation to help you maximize your time.
Ride: Tour the National Parks
Starting point: Idaho Falls, Idaho
Rent an Indian Motorcycle for several days or even a week to explore the mountain views in the magnificent national parks in this part of the country, Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Eagle Rock Indian Motorcycle in Idaho Falls is the ideal starting point for your adventuring. They have several models, but the Roadmaster Limited might be the best choice for a national parks tour that lasts several days. You'll appreciate the machine's extra-comfortable ride and its 140 liters of cargo space, including weatherproof storage with remote-locking saddle bags.
Ride: Tail of the Dragon Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Buford, Georgia
Though just 11 miles long, the Tail of the Dragon is legendary among bikers and sports car enthusiasts. From Mall of Georgia Indian Motorcycle in Buford, head north to Robbinsville, North Carolina, where you'll embark on this section of U.S. Highway 129 tucked into the Deals Gap mountain pass bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
With 318 mountain curves, no intersecting roads, and no driveways, the Tail of the Dragon attracts bikers throughout late spring, summer, and fall. Take your time on the turns and enjoy what might be the ride of your life.
Ride: Phoenix Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Scottsdale, Arizona
No wonder Arizona is a coveted destination for motorcyclists. You can ride year-round (though beware of fiercely hot temps in the desert—including Phoenix—from May through September), and there's a surprising amount of diversity in the terrain. Rent a bike from Indian Motorcycle of Scottsdale for a few days to head north to Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon.
If you only have a day to enjoy your motorcycle, take advantage of a trip close to Phoenix. About 140 miles away, you can visit Show Low for lake fun and hiking. Or head to Wickenburg or Jerome for a taste of the Old West and roads that will take you from desert cacti to higher-elevation rock formations.
Ride: Panama City Beach Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Panama City Beach, Florida
Heading to the Florida panhandle? Your only challenge is going to be deciding where to venture. There are just so many exciting options. Indian Motorcycle of Panama City Beach is the ideal launching point for some of Florida's best destinations, and the staff will be happy to create a motorcycle trip that captures your interests and maximizes your time.
Just a few options: fascinating Florida Caverns State Park; serene St. George Island; the charming fishing town of Apalachicola; or Red Bay Market, found just off scenic Highway 81, for delicious BBQ and burgers.
Ride: Ohio Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: St. Clairsville, Ohio
Don't think the mountains and coasts are the only great places to ride a motorcycle. The Midwest boasts some fabulous routes. In Ohio, you can rent an Indian Motorcycle at North Star Polaris to pursue the Windy 9, a collection of routes (each between 50 and 100 miles long) that collectively yield 1,000-plus miles of perfectly maintained roads for cruising.
Another idyllic day trip is the Amish Country Byway—160 miles of rolling hills and winding curves. Be mindful of buggies on the road, and stop for some wholesome Amish cooking at whatever roadside restaurant captures your interest. For some technical riding, try The Triple Nickel Tour (State Route 555), Ohio's version of North Carolina's famous Tail of the Dragon, with its sharp twists along winding roads through forest and farmland.
Ride: Inland Empire Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Redlands, California
Indian Motorcycle Rentals of Redlands puts you within easy reach of some true California gems. Love history? Jaunt through the Redlands past elaborate buildings from the 1800s in one of the oldest cities in California. If scenic views are what you're after, take the short drive to the charming town of Big Bear Lake, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the San Bernadino Forest.
When you get hungry, head to one of the many local restaurants. McDuff's is a favorite for their great burgers and salads. The team at Indian Motorcycle Rentals of Redlands will be happy to hear what you're looking for in your ride and create a trip just for you.
Ride: San Diego Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: San Diego, California
San Diego always delivers. And if you love riding motorcycles, it's hard to imagine a destination more worthy of your bucket list. Rent from Indian Motorcycle of San Diego and let them create an unforgettable, personalized route for you.
Some famous must-sees include Cuyumaca State Park, Sunrise Highway, Cabrillo National Monument, Coronado, and Idyllwild. Or, if you can't get enough ocean views, take your time on the Pacific Coast Highway. Find a place to enjoy a tasty meal overlooking the ocean and ride back with the sunset. Your day will be as dreamy as it sounds.
Ride: Fort Myers Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Ft. Myers, Florida
Start your day in downtown Fort Myers, the River District. Cruising the active, charming streets is a great way to acclimatize to your motorcycle rental from Indian Motorcycle of Ft Myers. (If you need coffee, the donuts and coffee at Bennett's Fresh Roast are a hit with locals and tourists alike.) After that, fill your day with whatever you love most. Animal and nature lovers will want to explore Manatee Park.
History buffs will want to step back in time at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates along the Caloosahatchee River. And easy riders will want to head to the seven-mile stretch of Fort Myers beach for some low-key cruising. No matter what kind of experience you're looking for, the team at Indian Motorcycles of Ft Myers will happily prepare an ideal itinerary for you and your crew.
Ride: Historic Patriot Loop
Starting point: Newport News, Virginia
Indian Motorcycle of Southeastern Virginia has curated several fantastic rides that explore this richly historic and beautiful part of the country. If you're a fan of United States history, the 81-mile Historic Patriot Loop is for you.
The Yorktown Battlefield, historic Yorktown, the American Revolution Museum, the fun-to-drive Colonial National Historical Parkway, Williamsburg, and Jamestown are all part of this route, which makes for a full-day motorcycle road trip. Add Washington, D.C. and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge to your trip, and you can easily spend several days exploring at your own pace.
Ride: Florida Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Many motorcycle enthusiasts visit Fort Lauderdale to cruise The Strip, a see-and-be-seen promenade along oceanside highway A1A lined with upscale boutiques, luxury hotels, and outdoor restaurants.
If you want to put more miles under your tires, Indian Motorcycle of Ft. Lauderdale is the perfect starting point for longer routes, including taking the Florida Keys Scenic Highway to points south. The Seven Mile Bridge is an iconic Floridian stretch of highway that's best experienced with an open-air vehicle to enjoy all that fresh ocean air.
Ride: San Francisco Motorcycle Tour
Starting point: San Jose, California
There's nothing quite like crossing the famous Golden Gate Bridge on a motorcycle, and you can do that and much more with an Indian Motorcycle rental from Spirit Motorcycles of San Jose. Rent a bike for at least a day or two to venture north to wine country and/or south from San Francisco along the stunning Pacific coastline to enjoy Half Moon Bay's views and delicious eateries.
Many riders dedicate a few days to exploring Highway 1. But even if you only have one day to ride, you can enjoy the 80-mile stretch between San Francisco and Santa Cruz. This is motorcycle cruising at its very best. Stop often to soak up the coast-side culture. Insider tip: The Mercado & Taqueria De Amigos gas station in Pescadero serves some of the best Mexican food available on Highway 1.
