Does Google Maps Have Motorcycle Routes?

Whether you’ve got your first motorcycle and are ready to start riding in 2025, or you’ve been riding for decades, one question you may be asking yourself is, “Does Google Maps have motorcycle routes?”
In this article, we’ll cover how you can use Google Maps to plan your motorcycle trips, as well as some helpful tips on how to best utilize Google Maps for motorcycle rides.

Does Google Maps have motorcycle routes?

The answer is yes, sort of. Google Maps does not have a designated “motorcycle mode” globally. However, in some regions, like parts of Asia (e.g., India, Indonesia, and Thailand), Google has rolled out a “two-wheeler” mode specifically for motorcycles and scooters. This mode provides routes tailored for two-wheelers because it can avoid roads where they’re restricted and it can favor more narrow roads or shortcuts that vehicles can’t take.

It also adjusts travel time estimates based on motorcycle-specific conditions, like traffic patterns or even the ability to lane-split in some areas.

The good news is you can still use Google Maps effectively for motorcycle trips by tweaking a few settings even if you’re planning a route in a country where Google doesn’t offer the motorcycle “two-wheeler” mode. So here’s a few steps you can take to optimize your motorcycle road trip using some of the features available in 2025 for Google Maps.

What are the best settings for motorcycle rides on Google Maps?

Here are some tips to help optimize the best settings for motorcycle rides using Google Maps:

1. Route Options for Better Roads:

Open Google Maps and enter your starting point and destination. Under “Options,” select “Avoid highways” if you’re looking for scenic backroads, which are often more fun for motorcyclists than straight interstate freeways.

You can also check “Avoid tolls” if you don’t want to deal with toll booth or prefer routes without them.

Once the route loads, zoom in and manually drag the path to include roads you know are good for riding—like twisty mountain passes or coastal routes. This is tedious but lets you customize your trip. 

2. Check Elevation and Terrain:

Google Maps doesn’t directly show elevation profiles for driving routes, but you can get a rough idea by switching to the “Terrain” view (under the map layers). This highlights hills, mountains, and valleys, helping you spot potentially fun (or challenging) sections.

Alternatively, try the “Bicycle” mode for a basic elevation profile—it’s not perfect for motorcycles, but it can give you a heads-up on steep climbs or descents.

3. Street View for Road Conditions:

Use Google Street View to preview roads along your route. Drop the little yellow person onto the map to see if a road looks narrow, poorly maintained, or gravelly—things that might affect your ride. This is especially useful for rural routes where pavement quality can vary.

4. Save and Share Your Route:

Once you’ve got a route you like, save it offline (download the map area on your phone) in case you lose a signal while riding. This is one of the most important things you can do when planning a motorcycle trip if you’re using Google Maps to navigate when riding in a remote area with no cell service.

What are the limitations with using Google Maps for motorcycle rides?

The fact is, there are limitations with using Google Maps for motorcycle routes. Google Maps isn’t perfect for U.S. motorcycle trips because it’s designed more for cars. For example, it won’t warn you about:

– Sharp curves or switchbacks that might catch you off guard.

– Motorcycle-specific hazards like gravel patches, road debris, or seasonal issues (e.g., wet leaves in fall).

– Roads banned for motorcycles (rare, but some exist, like certain parkways).

– The most scenic or “fun” routes—its algorithms prioritize efficiency, not enjoyment.

If you’re looking for great motorcycle roads near you, check out our list for the best motorcycle rides in every state in America .

Please note: The information here is based solely on our opinions and are meant for informational purposes only. To use information contained on this site is to do so at your own risk. We assume no liability for decisions made as a result of the information provided here. You are responsible for your decisions, your actions, and your safety. By using this website you agree to the TERMS OF USE .