When is The Best Time for a road trip and to Ride a Motorbike in Australia ?
Australia is one of the most stunning places to ride a motorcycle, offering a diverse range of landscapes—from sun-kissed coastlines to rugged outback roads. But like any great adventure, the timing is key. So you might be asking when is the best time and/or season for your motorbike road trip in Australia? Well, it depends on several factors: weather, region, and what kind of riding experience you’re after. Whether you’re planning a short weekend ride or a long-distance tour, here’s everything you need to know about when to hit the road. Remember that before hitting the road, whether you’re coming from another state in Australia or from overseas to make sure you are aware about the 10 things every rider should know about riding in Melbourne.
Mainly Melbourne, the seasons are not as straightforward as seen in Europe for example. The show the idea of the interesting 5 seasons model that would potentially suit Straya, click here.
In order to simplify things, we wrote it based on the normal 4 seasons and here is a picture of Melbourne to illustrate the difference. The photo was made a photographer, some other captures – including a video – can be found on this link:
The Ideal Riding Seasons: Spring & Autumn
1. Spring on a motorcycle road trip(September to November) – Exciting, Mild and Scenic
Spring is arguably one of the best times to ride a motorcycle in Australia. The temperatures are generally mild, and the weather is stable across most of the country, with warm but not oppressive days. Whether you’re cruising along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria or taking a scenic ride through the Blue Mountains, spring is perfect for motorbike tours.
Why Spring?
- Comfortable Temperatures: It’s warm, but not too hot, with average temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Ideal for Touring: Long rides are more enjoyable thanks to moderate weather. Coastal routes, like the Great Barrier Reef or the Pacific Coast Highway, are particularly stunning.
- Fewer Rainy Days: Compared to winter, spring tends to have less rain, which means more dry days for riding.
- Beautiful Scenery: Spring brings colorful blooms, making your journey even more picturesque.
2. Surprising autumn motorbike ride (March to May) – Clear Skies & Crisp Air
Autumn offers similar benefits to spring, but with the added charm of fall foliage in certain areas. It’s another great season for motorcyclists, offering clear skies, cool mornings, and pleasant temperatures.
Why Autumn?
- Mild and Comfortable: Average temperatures hover between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for long-distance rides without the stifling summer heat.
- Ideal Riding Conditions: Clear skies, minimal rain, and low humidity mean great visibility and safer roads for touring.
- Stunning Views: Autumn landscapes, especially in rural and mountainous areas, are absolutely breathtaking with vibrant foliage.
3. Summer road trip on a motorcycle (December to February) – Hot, but Beautiful Coastal Rides
While summer in Australia can be intense, it’s still a fantastic time to explore the country’s coastlines, especially in regions like Sydney, Melbourne, and Queensland. However, inland areas can become extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), making long rides in the Outback uncomfortable and dangerous.
Why Summer?
- Coastal Comfort: Coastal regions remain cooler during the summer, making it the best time to explore Australia’s world-famous beaches and seaside towns.
- Morning or Evening Rides: Beat the heat by riding early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when temperatures are more comfortable.
- Great for Beach Lovers: If you enjoy mixing your ride with a bit of sun and surf, summer along the Gold Coast or the Great Ocean Road offers both!
Tips for Riding in Summer:
- Stay Hydrated: Always carry water with you, especially when riding through remote areas.
- Gear Up for the Heat: Wear light, breathable gear but make sure it’s still protective. A good quality, vented jacket is a must.
- Ride at Cooler Hours: The hottest part of the day is between 11 AM and 3 PM, so try to ride early or late.
4. Charming winter on a motorbike (June to August) – Cold But Clear Skies
While winter may not seem like an obvious choice for a 2 wheel riding in Australia, it’s actually a fantastic time to explore certain regions, especially the north. Southern regions can get quite cold and even experience snow, but the northern parts remain temperate and welcoming.
Why Winter?
- Milder in the North: If you’re planning to ride in places like Queensland, Northern Territory, or Western Australia, winter offers pleasant, mild temperatures (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F). Perfect for exploring tropical and coastal areas.
- Fewer Tourists: If you’re after some peace and quiet on the road, winter means fewer crowds, especially in popular tourist destinations.
- Great for Northern Routes: The northern regions of Australia are ideal for winter riding, avoiding the intense heat of summer. Plus, the clear skies make for spectacular views, especially in places like Darwin, Cairns, and the Kimberley.
Winter Tips:
- Layer Up: If you plan to ride in the southern parts of Australia (e.g., Tasmania, Victoria), make sure to dress warmly. Morning and evening temperatures can dip below 10°C (50°F).
- Use Heated Gear: For added comfort, invest in heated gloves or jacket liners to keep you warm on those chilly mornings.
Region-Specific Tips for Motorbike road trip in Australia
- Northern Australia (Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia): The best time to ride is during the cooler months, from May to October. Avoid the wet season (November to April) when roads may be flooded, and cyclones are more common. In general the state offers the best time and/or season to ride overall when you are unsure or don’t really know where to ride.
- Southern Australia (Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia): These regions are great for riding year-round, but spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Winter can bring cold and wet conditions, especially in the mountains, so be prepared if you’re riding in these areas during the cooler months. Overall the most famous places with better infrastructure and can be easily be consider best regardless time or season to ride.
- Tasmania: If you’re heading to Tasmania, the summer months (December to February) are best. However, be prepared for sudden weather changes even in summer, especially in the highlands. has its charm as well, best time and/or season to ride is a bit relative compare to other but still a great catch if you like wild adventures !
General Tips to Ride a Motorcycle in Australia
- Check the Weather: Always check the local forecast before setting off, as conditions can change rapidly, especially in remote areas.
- Stay Protected from the Sun: Australia has high UV levels, so it’s important to wear protective gear like long sleeves, gloves, and a full-face helmet to shield your skin.
- Stay Hydrated: If you’re riding long distances, especially in hot climates, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Be Mindful of Traffic: Popular tourist spots can get crowded, especially during public holidays, so consider avoiding long weekends if you prefer quieter roads.
Conclusion
The best time for a road trip and to ride a bike in Australia depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant riding conditions, while summer is great for coastal routes. Winter, though chilly in the south, is perfect for exploring the northern regions. Wherever you decide to ride, make sure you’re prepared for the unique conditions each season brings! Here at Give It A Gas we can provide possibilities fora any of the seasons with orientation of places and safety instructions.
Stay safe, enjoy the ride, and explore Australia’s breathtaking roads at their best!