Best Motorcycle Rides Near Birmingham
Looking for the best motorcycle rides in Birmingham, AL? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Birmingham sits in the heart of central Alabama, giving motorcycle riders quick access to mountains, forests, and scenic country backroads. From twisty ridge climbs to peaceful rural roads, Birmingham, AL offers an impressive mix of great roads to travel by motorcycle within just a short distance of the city.
Each Birmingham, AL motorcycle route includes:
- Free interactive Google Maps links for every route
- Detailed ride info (distance, time, best season)
- GPX files instantly downloadable for our Patreon Premium members (perfect for Garmin or phone navigation)
Below are the best motorcycle routes and roads near Birmingham, each offering a unique combination of curves, scenery, and smooth pavement.
1. Alabama Dragon: Route 25 (20 miles)
2. Talladega Forest Loop (52 miles)
3. Route 22: Selma to Rock Mills (143 miles)
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1. Alabama Dragon: Route 25
- START/END: Vincent to Leads
- ROUTE: AL-25
- DISTANCE: 20 miles
- RIDE TIME: 30 mins
- BEST TIME: Year-round (smooth pavement)
- GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
- GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download
Often called the Alabama Dragon, Route 25 is one of the best twisty motorcycle roads in the entire state. Beginning near Leeds and heading toward Vincent, this route delivers tight curves, rolling hills, and continuous elevation changes that keep riders fully engaged. As you ride through the Oak Mountain foothills, you’ll experience shaded tree canopies, rural scenery, and excellent pavement conditions.
Because of its technical turns and energetic pace, Route 25 is ideal for intermediate and advanced riders who are looking for the best motorcycle rides in Birmingham. Additionally, traffic stays light, especially on weekday mornings.
Click for the Google maps motorcycle route link.
2. Talladega Forest Loop
- START/END: Anniston to Sylacauga
- ROUTE: AL-49, 281, Hwy 9
- DISTANCE: 52 miles
- RIDE TIME: 1 hour
- BEST TIME: Spring (wildflowers bloom)
- GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
- GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download
For motorcycle riders who prefer scenic mountain overlooks and sweeping curves, the Talladega National Forest Loop is one of Alabama’s best motorcycle routes. Starting on AL-49, you’ll wind through forested foothills before connecting to AL-281—the Skyway Motorway—offering wide-open ridge views and some of the best scenery in the state.
Continuing onto Highway 9, the loop delivers smoother sweepers and peaceful countryside before returning toward the Birmingham area. Furthermore, the variety of terrain makes this loop perfect for relaxed touring or all-day rides. Because traffic is low and the mountain air is cooler, it’s a favorite among weekend riders who are searching for great motorcycle roads near Birmingham.
Click for the Google maps motorcycle route link.
3. Route 22: Selma to Rock Mills
- START/END: Anniston to Sylacauga
- ROUTE: AL-22
- DISTANCE: 143 miles
- RIDE TIME: 3 hours
- BEST TIME: Spring & Fall (ideal temps)
- GOOGLE MAPS: Ride link
- GPX FILE (PATREON MEMBERS): Download
Alabama Route 22 is an old state road that runs across the middle of the state, and it provides one of the most peaceful and scenic long-distance motorcycle rides near Birmingham. Beginning in historic Selma, the road travels northeast through rolling farmland, quiet forests, and small rural communities before ending near Rock Mills.
The pavement is smooth, the curves are gentle, and the traffic remains extremely light, making it an ideal choice for riders who enjoy laid-back cruising. Because of its calm and scenic nature, Route 22 is perfect for beginners and experienced touring riders alike. Additionally, it’s a nice ride all along the way, but especially between Rockford and Coopers where this great Alabama motorcycle route crosses the Coosa River.
Click for the Google maps motorcycle route link.
Looking for more Alabama motorcycle routes? Visit our Alabama page for the full list of the Top 7 Best Motorcycle Roads in Alabama!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes. Birmingham is surrounded by mountains, forests, and rural backroads, making it one of the best riding areas in the South. Riders enjoy year-round riding weather, low-traffic scenic roads, and a wide variety of routes within 30–60 minutes of the city.
The best seasons for motorcycle riding near Birmingham are spring and fall, thanks to cooler temperatures and clear conditions. Winter rides are possible on warm days, while summer mornings work well before the heat builds.
About the Author
Seth Profenna
Native to Northeastern United States, Seth Profenna has been following his passion for discovering the best roads to ride motorcycles for over 10 years.
Why this website?
GreatMotorcycleRoads.com has been created for like-minded riders who are looking for an easy-to-navigate source for the best motorcycle rides in America and around the world.
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