The Best Motorcycle Rides in NZ’s North Island
New Zealand’s North Island is a dream destination for motorcyclists. From rugged coastlines to volcanic plateaus and winding forest roads, it offers some of the most diverse and rewarding riding experiences in the world.
Whether you’re chasing tight twisties, long scenic cruisers, or iconic Kiwi roads with serious character, these are some of the top motorcycle rides in the North Island that every rider should experience at least once.
Coromandel Loop
A classic ride with coastal views and flowing corners.
The Coromandel Loop is often the first ride mentioned when North Island motorcycling comes up, and for good reason. This route winds its way around the Coromandel Peninsula, delivering sweeping ocean views, native bush, and some beautifully cambered corners.
Highlights include the stretch between Thames and Coromandel Town, plus the climb over the ranges near Whitianga. The roads are engaging without being punishing, making it ideal for both experienced riders and relaxed weekend cruisers.
Why riders love it:
• Consistent flow and scenery
• Cafés and stops along the way
• A great all-round ride in any season
Desert Road
Big skies, open road, and pure riding freedom.
Stretching between Waiouru and Turangi, the Desert Road offers a completely different riding experience. This is about space, atmosphere, and the feeling of being alone with your bike and the road.
With views of Mount Ruapehu, dramatic weather changes, and long straights broken up by sweeping bends, it’s a ride that encourages smooth, confident riding and respect for the conditions.
Why riders love it:
• Epic landscape and scale
• Minimal traffic
• A uniquely NZ riding experience
Forgotten World Highway
Remote, technical, and unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a ride with real character, the Forgotten World Highway delivers. Running between Stratford and Taumarunui, this route mixes sealed road, historic tunnels, and remote countryside that feels a world away from city riding.
The famous one-lane Moki Tunnel and a stop in Whangamomona are must-dos. This ride rewards preparation, awareness, and a sense of adventure.
Why riders love it:
• Challenging and engaging
• Rich in history
• A true rider’s road
East Cape Road
Remote beauty and coastal isolation.
Often overlooked, the East Cape ride is one of the most rewarding long-distance routes in the North Island. Running around the easternmost point of the country, this road offers rugged coastline, quiet towns, and very little traffic.
It’s less about speed and more about soaking in the ride, the changing scenery, the sense of distance, and the satisfaction of tackling a lesser-known route.
Why riders love it:
• Low traffic and high immersion
• Raw coastal scenery
• Ideal for longer touring rides
Napier to Taihape Road
Twisties, elevation changes, and rhythm.
Known locally as the “Gentle Annie”, this inland route delivers tight corners, elevation changes, and excellent riding rhythm. It’s a favourite among riders who enjoy technical roads that demand attention without being overwhelming.
The scenery shifts from farmland to rugged hills, and the lack of heavy traffic makes it a rewarding ride at almost any pace.
Why riders love it:
• Continuous corners
• Great road surface
• Perfect for confident weekend rides
Riding NZ, the way it's meant to be.
The North Island isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about the journey, the feel of the road, and the connection between rider and machine. These routes showcase exactly why New Zealand is held in such high regard by motorcyclists around the world.
At Pro Class Customs, we believe great bikes deserve great roads, and the North Island delivers both in abundance.
Ride more. Ride better.
There’s nothing quite like summer riding in New Zealand. Long days, open roads, and bikes that are meant to be ridden, not parked up. Making sure your bike is dialled in means more confidence, more comfort, and more enjoyment every time you throw a leg over.
At Pro Class Customs, we’re passionate about quality workmanship, thoughtful upgrades, and building bikes that feel as good on the road as they look. Because when the ride is right, everything else falls into place.
