Here’s a visual taste of what riding near Sydney can feel like—think coastal roads hugging cliffs, winding mountain passes, and open highways bathed in scenic vistas.
If you’re planning a motorcycle adventure starting from Sydney, New South Wales, you’re in for a treat. Here are some top-rated riding routes and destinations that locals and touring riders rave about:
1. Putty Road Loop (Windsor – Broke)
- A classic loop featuring sweeping corners and forested scenery.
- Highly rated by riders for its twisty fun and varied landscapes. (bestbikingroads.com, Sydney Unleashed)
2. Bells Line of Road (Windsor – Lithgow)
- A well-known westward alternative offering dramatic vistas and a rewarding ride.
- Popular for both scenery and road quality. (bestbikingroads.com, sydneycarking.com.au, Sydney Unleashed)
3. Oxley Highway (Wauchope – Bendemeer)
- Although a few hours away from Sydney, it’s considered one of the best motorcycle rides in NSW.
- Features tight, technical corners set against stunning countryside and mountain backdrops. (classicbikespares.com.au)
4. Southern Highlands (Day or Overnight Loop)
- Enjoy charming towns, scenic landscapes, and local bakeries (“Pie-lands”) in this easy yet rewarding route.
- Ideal for relaxed rides, a foodie bonus included. (NRMA)
5. Yengo National Park Loop & Kangaroo Valley / Fitzroy Falls Loop
- Starts near Gosford and delivers forested roads, elevation changes, and beautiful viewpoints.
- A great mix of quiet roads, winding terrain, and peaceful nature. (rever.co)
6. Royal National Park to Thirroul
- A shorter coastal escape south of Sydney.
- Offers ocean views, winding roads through National Park landscapes. (bestbikingroads.com)
7. Extended NSW Touring Routes (Oxley, Alpine Way, Kosciuszko Road, etc.)
- Enthusiasts list longer journeys like Alpine Way or Kosciuszko Road for those looking to travel further and enjoy mountain scenery.
- Mounting views and challenging corners await seasoned riders. (bestbikingroads.com, topicget.com)
Quick Comparison of Routes
| Route | Distance & Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Putty Road Loop | ~138 km | Forested twisties, moderate distance |
| Bells Line of Road | ~76 km | Scenic valleys, challenging turns |
| Oxley Highway | ~212 km (Wauchope–Bendemeer) | Technical, lush mountain scenery |
| Southern Highlands Loop | Varies (day ride) | Charming towns, relaxed pace |
| Yengo–Fitzroy Loop | Moderate (2–3 hrs) | Forests, viewpoint on peaceful roads |
| Royal NP to Thirroul | ~50 km | Coastal scenery, National Park ambiance |
| Alpine/Kosciuszko Routes | Longer distances | Alpine terrain, sweeping roads |
Tips for Your Ride
- Plan for traffic: Opt for weekday mornings or mid-days when traffic is lighter, especially on weekends.
- Check road conditions: Some routes deliver technical corners but may also have surface issues or varying weather. Always keep an eye on local updates.
- Start easy, scale up: If you’re getting back into riding, begin with shorter, gentler routes like the Southern Highlands or Royal NP—then build up to longer, more technical rides like Oxley or Bells Line.
Whether you’re chasing twisty corners, breathtaking views, or a peaceful coastal cruise, Sydney has you covered. Let me know if you’d like curated GPS files, cafés or pit-stops along these routes, or suggested overnight stays to make your ride even more epic.
