Our comprehensive list of the top Illinois motorcycle rides can be found here!
These terrific motorcycle rides around the state will provide some excellent diversity and magnificent scenery as you meander through rolling hills and wetlands, or around the shores of Lake Michigan. For a direct Google Maps route, click on the Illinois motorbike map links. This is where your adventure begins.
HOW CAN I FIND THE BEST MOTORCYCLE ROADS AROUND ILLINOIS?
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What Are The Best Motorcycle Rides in Illinois?
- Rockford to Dixon (42 miles)
- Oswego to Jonesville (51 miles)
- Elizabeth to Scales Mound (38 miles)
- Carbondale Loop (46 miles)
- Alton to Havana (140 miles)
1. ROCKFORD TO DIXON
- Route 2
- DISTANCE: 42 miles
- TIME: 1 hour
As it follows the Rock River through highly wooded areas, rock wall cliffs, gorgeous farms, and tiny country communities, this Illinois motorcycle road offers some spectacular views. Castle Rock State Park is a fantastic site to visit if you want to take in the breathtaking views of the Rock River Valley. If you’re searching for a great Illinois motorcycle trip, this is one of the best. Enjoy this motorcycle journey along the river in Illinois, stopping to see the rock formations and ravines along the way.
2. OSWEGO TO JONESVILLE
- Route 71
- DISTANCE: 51 miles
- TIME: 1 hour 10 min
On the northern side of this Illinois motorcycle route, there are some great, open stretches with views of the state’s countryside fields throughout the majority of the trip. The river vistas are spectacular while riding near Ottawa. The route becomes increasingly mountainous, with several tight twists to negotiate as you approach Starved Rock. Some of the curves may catch you off guard, so newbies should go with caution. This region has seen increased traffic, particularly on weekends. Overall, this is a pleasant ride because the majority of the road is well-paved, making it one of Illinois’ top motorcycle highways.
3. ELIZABETH TO SCALES MOUND
- Elizabeth Rd, S Derinda Rd, Route 4
- DISTANCE: 38 miles
- TIME: 1 hour
This little-known treasure in Illinois is a fantastic motorcycle road with stunning views, excellent tarmac, and almost no automobile traffic. Motorcyclists will enjoy this roller coaster journey, which features numerous hills, turns, and curves from start to finish, as well as spectacular scenery. There are a few route modifications on this Illinois motorcycle route, but from Mt. Carroll, just follow the signs to Elizabeth and then turn north after IL-20 for more terrific riding to Scales Mound, IL. To get a direct Google maps path, simply click on the map link.
4. CARBONDALE LOOP
- Routes 127, Old Hwy 51, 51
- DISTANCE: 46 miles
- TIME: 1 hour
This Illinois motorcycle route takes riders through the Trail of Tears State Forest, which features tree-lined roads that lead to panoramic vistas of the undulating landscape. Begin in Murphysboro and travel south to Anna before returning north to Carbondale. There are numerous hills and curves, as well as several sharp curves that riders will enjoy, making this one of Illinois’ top motorcycle routes.
5. ALTON TO HAVANA
- Routes 100, 61
- DISTANCE: 140 miles
- TIME: 2 hour 45 min
This road on the eastern border of Illinois is located just north of St. Louis. There are some spectacular vistas of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, as well as beautiful agricultural and farmland scenery. Fast Eddies, a popular motorcyclist’s stop in Alton, offers terrific fun and cuisine. The road surface is mostly smooth throughout this Illinois motorcycle journey, with several gently sweeping curves to negotiate. Autumn is one of the best times to ride here since the foliage colours are spectacular.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In the Chicago area, where may I ride my motorcycle?
IL-71 from Oswego is a fantastic 45-mile trip southwest of Chicago. To go to Jonesville, take this route south. Another good short ride just north of the city is Sheridan Rd near the Chicago Botanic Garden. US HWY 12 runs through the Indiana Dunes just across the Indiana state line, roughly an hour east of Chicago.
What is the best season to ride a motorcycle in Illinois?
Summer is the best time to ride a motorcycle in Illinois due to its northern location in the United States. The tall prairie grasses and farmlands provide beautiful scenery in June, July, and August.
