The weather is supposedly turning warmer this weekend as third winter finally makes its way out of the area. I have heard reports of sunshine and 80 degrees for Saturday. This can mean only one thing…it’s motorcycle season.
IMHO, the best motorcycle roads are less traveled, curvy roads with changes in elevation. I have ridden a bike in 11 states. And before you ask, yes, I am endorsed and I wear a helmet including all of the proper safety gear when I ride.
Photo Credit: Casey Daniels, Emmis Communications
What Are The Best Motorcycle Roads In Indiana
Greatmotorcycleroads.com has a list of some fine stretches to ride. Motorcycleroads.com also offers some good loops to consider.
Dale to Lanesville
This east/west motorcycle road in Indiana is known as the Ohio River Scenic Byway. Ride through some beautifully dense forest roads in Harrison-Crawford State Forest and O’Bannon Woods State Park. This is a great Indiana motorcycle road during spring, summer or fall seasons.
Indiana Dunes, Hwy 12
This Indiana motorcycle ride is a winding two lane highway through the Indiana Dunes National Park. While most of this road is straight-a-ways, the main allure is riding along the three-miles of dune-lined shores, and a diverse range of flora and fauna in the National Park. Stop for a view of Lake Michigan as you go and stop at the Indiana Dunes National Park. Pack some water if you plan to climb a dune!
Tell City To Harrison-Crawford Park
This is regarded by many as an excellent motorcycle road in southern Indiana. The road condition is good with plenty of turns and sweepers to keep you interested. There are some moderate curves and some sharper curves along with various elevation changes along the Ohio River Scenic Byway highway. Continue along O’Bannon Woods State Park into Harrison-Crawford State Forest.
Salem to Brown County
Many local Indiana motorcycle riders recommend Route 135 near the Brown County Park area. It’s an enjoyable route that’s hilly and curvy. The northern half of this route leads near the Saltwater and Cordry Lakes. It consists of narrow, one lane roads through dense forests, and farm land along Salt Creek Rd, and Sweetwater Dr. You can optionally loop around these lakes as well for a longer ride. There’s not much traffic on this route and the scenery is great, especially in the autumn.
Morgan-Monroe Loop
Morgan-Monroe State Forest, located in south central Indiana, spans 24,000 acres in Morgan and Monroe counties, 16 miles north of Bloomington. The hardwood forest sprawls across high peaks and valleys. For day usage, picnic spots are distributed throughout the forest, although swimming is not permitted in any of the lakes. This almost 2 hour loop passes through and near some Indian State Forests which adds to the pleasant ride. The only thing you’ll hear are your pipes!
Big Lick Ride
This 165-mile journey is the epitome of rural America. This loop route starts in Madison, IN and follows a stretch of the Ohio River. Barges and river boats can be observed on a daily basis, along with some small quaint shops, and Mom and Pop restaurants. You’ll stay on the outskirts of Cincinnati and brush by the Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge.
Southern Bloomington Loop
On this hour and a half ride, you’ll start in Bloomington and head south. After crossing Lake Monroe you’ll wind to the Dutch Ridge Lookout Tower. Looping back through Maumee, you will pass plenty of reservoirs and campgrounds. You can take a break and climb the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower to get a panoramic view.
Whether it’s the coastal shores near Lake Michigan, the farmlands of the central part of the state or the wooded hills of Brown County and the southern counties, Indiana does offer some beautiful spots to get your wind therapy. As always, ride safe and keep 2 wheels on the road!
