Today, I want to share one of Australia’s absolute gems for motorcyclists – the iconic Great Ocean Road. As someone who’s traversed this magnificent stretch more times than I can count, I reckon it’s hands down the best coastal ride our sunburnt country has to offer.
Why the Great Ocean Road is a Motorcyclist’s Dream
Stretching 243 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford in Victoria, the Great Ocean Road isn’t just a route – it’s a motorcycling pilgrimage. Built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932, this road is both a war memorial and an engineering marvel.
For us on two wheels, it offers everything we crave: sweeping curves that hug dramatic cliffs, technical corners that test your skills, and straight stretches where you can safely open the throttle a bit (while respecting the speed limits, of course).
The Perfect Two-Day Ride
While you could rush through in a day, I recommend taking at least two days to properly experience this spectacular route.
Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay (189 km) – Start early from Melbourne and head toward Torquay, the official starting point. Take your time through the surf towns of Anglesea and Lorne, stopping at the Aireys Inlet lighthouse for your first breathtaking view. The stretch between Lorne and Apollo Bay features some of the most technical and rewarding riding, with the road clinging to the cliff face and the Southern Ocean crashing below.
Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell (96 km) – This section showcases the most famous landmarks. Don’t miss the Twelve Apostles (get there early to beat the tourist buses!), Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. The inland route through the Otways is an excellent alternative return journey, offering cool, shaded corners through ancient rainforest.
Best Stops for Motorcycle Enthusiasts
The route offers several perfect stops for bikers. Bells Beach provides famous surf spots with great parking for bikes and excellent photo opportunities. Split Point Lighthouse offers easy parking and unbeatable coastal views. At Kennet River, you can spot wild koalas while stretching your legs. Apollo Bay Hotel provides motorcycle-friendly accommodation with secure parking. And of course, Twelve Apostles features the iconic rock formations that are simply unmissable.
Best Time to Ride
Late autumn (April-May) or early spring (September-October) offers the perfect balance: fewer tourists, milder temperatures, and reduced chance of extreme weather. Summer weekends bring heavy traffic, which can diminish the riding experience.
Riding Tips for the Great Ocean Road
When tackling this route, watch for tourist traffic, especially around the major attractions. Be prepared for sudden weather changes – the Southern Ocean can whip up conditions in minutes. Fuel up whenever you can, as stations can be sparse in some sections. It’s wise to book accommodation in advance during peak season, and always pack layers – even summer mornings can be chilly along the coast.
My Recommended Motorcycle for the Journey
While any bike will do, I found my Triumph Tiger 900 to be perfect for this route. It handles the twisties beautifully while remaining comfortable for the longer stretches. That said, I’ve seen everything from cruisers to sportbikes tackling this road with equal enthusiasm.
Final Thoughts
The Great Ocean Road isn’t just about the destination – it’s about the journey. The feeling of leaning into those perfectly cambered corners, with the ocean on one side and forest on the other, is nothing short of magnificent.
Have you ridden the Great Ocean Road? What was your experience like? Drop a comment below about your favourite section or any tips for fellow riders planning this iconic journey.
Written by Michael Bankier Biker
