More Dangerous Roads For Bikers To Travel

1. Dangerous is Sometimes the Best

We all, as riders, acknowledge that motorcycling is inherently dangerous. That fact, in itself, should not really surprise anyone. Statistically speaking, motorcycle injuries and accidents are much less prevalent than automobile injuries and accidents but then again, the biker community is also smaller. Although motorcycles cause less property damage they do account for a higher "severity" as far as injuries are concerned. With all of this in mind, yes, every road is dangerous for a motorcycle. Accepting this fact of life motorcycle riders are often on the lookout for "fun" roads or "technical" roads which also translates to "potentially dangerous." So when we talk about some of the most dangerous roads in America for motorcycle riders we are also (usually) talking about the best roads. Ignoring the fact that riding in the middle of Los Angeles or Dallas is also incredibly dangerous, although for different reasons if  you tell a biker that a particular road is "dangerous" there is a good chance he or she might just gear up and head that way.

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2. Tail Of The Dragon

Let's start with one that should be familiar to most riders. The tail of the dragon at Deals Gap offers bikers a challenging run with 318 curves in a span of 11 miles. Definitely not a ride for someone who just hops on a bike and is sporting that endorsement on a license for the first time. There are no roads intersecting this road so there is no merging traffic. The vast majority of crashes and injuries are the direct result of riders over-estimating their ability. 

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3. Beartooth Highway

Montana has much to offer for motorcycle riders of all skill levels. One particular road that is non-accessible due to snow from October to April is Hwy 212, also known as Beartooth highway. The scenery is breathtaking and for over 70 miles this stretch of road takes you through both Montana and Wyoming. This road, however, is also very remote. The extreme weather causes severe damage to the road (with help from plow trucks) and you could easily find yourself stranded with a flat or a bent rim. Even in "good weather" is rather cold and the weather can change drastically depending on the time of the year. This is perhaps a better road explored on a dual sport or adventure bike. 

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4. California 190

Death Valley should be on your bucket list of "must ride through" places in order to truly experience riding through the desert in all its glory. Most riders who have done it, myself included, will tell you that this is a special road to travel through and if you are overconfident, alone, or not prepared it can really give you a good scare. Few people realize that Hwy 190, which traverses the length of Death Valley can go from 13 to 114 degrees on the same day. Cell phone reception is non-existent in some stretches and service stations can be far apart. The highway is rather flat and seems to go on forever so dehydration, boredom, drowsiness, sand on the road, wind gusts, extreme cold, and extreme heat - all in one day, can make it a very dangerous road to travel on. Wind gusts pick up sand and will make the road disappear right in front of your eyes. Still, it is a beautiful road to ride through in its own right. 

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5. Alaska Highway

If you are looking for a true adventure, one that will test your resolve, your bike, and your ego you should consider the Alaskan Highway. From British Columbia to Fairbanks, the 1000 or so miles is not something you can complete in 24 hours as some people do in a saddle sore challenge. While most every other riding destination offers plenty of hotels and traveler amenities, this road offers very little to support your travel from Canada to Alaska. Needless to say that planning and a very good route plan is essential but this is just to get started. The highway is a beautiful but a desolate place. While some of it is paved, much is damaged due to harsh weather - yet other parts are gravel, especially as you enter Alaska. Mud, potholes, rain, and sudden weather changes are the order of the day even during the summer months. Still, few places in the world will take you through this much beautiful scenery. It is a touring destination for the most stubborn and dedicated riders. 

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6. A Matter Of Opinion

While yes, in fact, these roads are dangerous they also present a challenge that motorcyclist simply can't ignore. Motorcycling has a certain degree of mysticism that pushes riders to new experiences and "separates" you from the rest. There is much personal pride in accomplishing something difficult or different. Riding across the country, for example, would probably be considered "extreme" and even "irresponsible" by someone in your family or perhaps your co-workers but for you is a long-awaited opportunity. 

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