Enjoy The Journey: The Best Motorcycle Routes In Asia

March 2, 2019 | Posted at 9:18 am | by Rebecca (Follow User)

When you think of the best motorcycling routes in the world, your immediate thought probably isn’t of Asia, but of Europe and the US.

However, while Asia might not be quite as popular as many destinations in other parts of the world, it’s still home to some of the most beautiful expanses of road. A motorcycle road trip is sure to be one of the most amazing experiences of your life; you’ll be able to feel the wind in your hair, see some of the world’s most incredible scenery and meet many new people along the way.

If you’re looking for inspiration for the best motorcycle routes in Asia, then the list below will be able to provide you with plenty!

The Thakhek Loop – Laos

The Thakhek Loop

The Thakhek Loop is a 280-mile-long trip that takes you through the stunning countryside of Laos. It starts and ends in Tha Khaek, and it takes approximately four days to complete the whole loop.

As the scenery is sure to blow you away, you may choose to slow your journey down even more. Many riders take up to a week to complete it in order to savour every minute. You’ll pass through jagged mountain ridges, abundant jungle paths and plentiful limestone peaks.

While encountering the Thakhek Loop, you’ll also get the chance to make many stops at the various caves, waterfalls and blue lagoons that will punctuate your journey. It’s one of the most arresting stretches of road in Asia and the perfect place to endure a long motorcycle trip.

Ho Chi Minh Trail – Vietnam

The Ho Chi Minh Trail is often cited as a bucket-list journey for many motorcyclists, and for good reason. It encompasses 1168 miles, starting in Saigon and travelling to Hanoi.

The route primarily runs through Vietnam, but also dips into Laos and Cambodia. It was also a significant route that many soldiers traversed during the Vietnam War to deliver weapons to the south, so you’ll be experiencing a great deal of history on your journey.

Many of the paths are muddy, wet and rocky, so you’ll need to ensure your bike is well equipped for vastly different terrains throughout your trip. While the road conditions might not be entirely ideal, the views alone will be more than worth the arduous ride.

The Ha Giang Route – Vietnam

The Ha Giang Route – Vietnam

Winding through mountainous towns and misty scenery, the Ha Giang route spans 300 miles. You’ll drive on roads that run parallel to the Chinese border and you’ll be mesmerised by the breathtaking surroundings.

From ethnic tribal towns and villages to picturesque paddies and towering limestone peaks, the Ha Giang route is sure to be on your bucket list of the best motorcycle routes in the world.

It’s not a journey for the faint-hearted as you’ll have to navigate your way around twisting turns and hairpin bends; the route will take you around 5 days to complete. The Ha Giang route is an ideal journey to make in March and April, when the weather is warm but manageable.

The Mae Hong Son Loop – Thailand

This 400-mile stretch of road will take you on an incredible adventure through Northern Thailand. It can take up to a week to complete and will see you sauntering through the lushest scopes of Thai countryside imaginable.

As it’s a loop, the Mae Hong Son Loop starts and finishes in Chiang Mai and passes through various places including Mae Hong, Mae Hong Son, Mae Sariang and Pai. You’ll be rewarded with some of the most exquisite views you’ve ever seen as you drive along the winding roads, including rolling hills and mountains, quaint towns and villages and even picturesque waterfalls that are sure to arrest your attention.

While the road conditions are decent at all times of the year, the best time to endure this ride is between November and February when the weather is much cooler and dryer.

Conclusion – Best Motorcycle Routes in Asia

While the selection of motorcycle routes in Asia might not be as vast as in the US or Europe, for example, the few choices above are still some of the very best roads in the world.

You’ll get the chance to explore sprawling paddies, lush jungle areas and quintessential Asian towns. A motorcycle route through Asia will be one of the most incredible experiences of your life.

When it comes to embarking on a motorcycle road trip, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Make sure you’re equipped with plenty of food and drink in case of an emergency, and ensure that your gas tank is always as full as possible.

You should also invest in a good level of motorcycle insurance so that you’re fully covered in the event of an accident or incident. If you do get into an accident, make sure to consult a motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you figure out the next steps.