With reading week fast approaching, there is one thing on students minds: vacation. And who can blame them? Who doesn't love a little sun, surf and relaxation. In my search for a new motorcycle destination to write about this week I came across a highway that seemed to offer all three of those things to riders: The Great Ocean Road. Too bad its half way around the world in Australia though, if it was a little closer I think it would make a pretty great reading week destination.
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| The Great Ocean Road |
The road starts in Melbourne, although you have to travel 130km before the fun begins. When I say 'fun' I'm referring to the sandy beaches, large waves and surf on one side and breathtaking mountain ranges on the other. You'll also encounter historical ports, whale lookouts and national parks. In total, this two lane highway is 260km long and has a speed limit that never exceeds 80km / hour.
This road isn't just another pretty stretch of highway though. Built in 1919 by soldiers who had returned from World War I, the Great Ocean Road was constructed by hand, using shovels, wheelbarrows and explosives. It is now the worlds largest war memorial, dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I.
The nice thing for motorcyclists about this highway is that although it can be a bit of a tourist trap, with lots of cars and RV's, there are lots of passing sections and a few slow lanes that these vehicles can pull into. Another appeal is that even though the speed limit is lower, this road offers all the bends and tight corners that motorcyclists seem to crave. A word of advice though for all you thrill seekers and rebels; a common complaint about this road is the abundance of cops and speed traps, so try to stick to the speed limit!
This road isn't just another pretty stretch of highway though. Built in 1919 by soldiers who had returned from World War I, the Great Ocean Road was constructed by hand, using shovels, wheelbarrows and explosives. It is now the worlds largest war memorial, dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I.
The nice thing for motorcyclists about this highway is that although it can be a bit of a tourist trap, with lots of cars and RV's, there are lots of passing sections and a few slow lanes that these vehicles can pull into. Another appeal is that even though the speed limit is lower, this road offers all the bends and tight corners that motorcyclists seem to crave. A word of advice though for all you thrill seekers and rebels; a common complaint about this road is the abundance of cops and speed traps, so try to stick to the speed limit!
A very interesting history about the road.
ReplyDeleteI thought you'd enjoy that part Justin, I was actually thinking about you when I read it!
ReplyDeleteHow did you know I was thinking about a vacation!? Oh, you're good.
ReplyDeleteEllen those picture are breathtaking! My sister was in Australia in January and was lucky enough to go on the Great Ocean Road. She said it was an amazing experience. I hope you are able to ride your bike through the Great Ocean Road sometime soon!
ReplyDeleteHi El, if you come 'Downunder' to ride then the GOR is a certainly one of the better rides here. If someone was per chance to visit when the MotoGP is on then from Phillip Island there is a ferry that will take you to the start of the fun thus avoiding the ride out of Melbourne. There is plenty of areas for cars to pull over or bikes to pass so you get a reasonable run despite traffic. After the ocean section is two mountain sections (tight switchbacks) before another ocean section where the 12 apostles scenic area is located thus overall this adds up to one spectacular ride.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed riding it a lot however we also have roads that are almost zero cars yet perfect for motorcycles such as the Oxley highway that is 140km of endless 30-40kph curves with near perfect tar. All the local road gang are riders hence this is maintained like a private motorcycle road circuit :)
Haha! you have my blog, ask me for anything regarding riding here, happy to help.
Regards,
IC