Your First Ride Out of the Year

While the temptation is to roll your motorcycle out of the garage and pick up on the technical ride outs you took at the end of last season, be wise and start small. You and your bike have been off the road for months; you both need to ease into the ride after the winter.  

Our picks focus on manageable challenges and great views for an early-season ride to get you back into the rhythm. 

1. Snake Pass (A57), Peak District, England 

A classic introduction to get back into the swing of things. It’s a relatively short route, with sweeping curves and stunning moorland views between Glossop and Ladybower reservoir. Ideal for morning rides with coffee stops in Hope Valley. 

2. Yorkshire Dales Circuit, England 

A longer day ride taking in rolling hills, quiet A and B roads and plenty of scenic stopping points, like Ribblehead Viaduct and Hawes. Great for building confidence with varied road types while remembering what the ride out is all about. 

3. The Atlantic Highway (A39), Devon and Cornwall, England 

Perfect gentle coastal cruising through southwest England. Smooth tarmac, seaside views and plenty of cafes make for a relaxed ride, ideal for dusting off the cobwebs. 

4. Norfolk Coast and Broads, England 

Flat, open roads with big skies, seaside villages and peaceful stretches from King’s Lynn towards Great Yarmouth. Great for a first longer day out with minimal steep climbs.

5. Brecon Beacons Explorer, Wales 

Sweeping A roads through the iconic Beacons give a mix of gentle bends, mountain views and easy-to-handle twists; technical vibes with an easy-going heart. 

6. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset 

A short but exhilarating ride through towering limestone cliffs. Ideal for an afternoon outing with tight turns and fabulous photo opportunities. 

7. Elan Valley, Wales 

Quiet country tarmac roads winding past reservoirs and beautiful Welsh valleys. It’s one of the most peaceful and beginner-friendly rides in the UK. 

8. Lock Lomond and Glencoe to Inverness (A82), Scotland 

A scenic longer day (or even weekend) route with calm, flowing sections around Loch Lomond and majestic Glencoe landscapes. Traffic is generally steady and it’s ideal for route planning practice. 

9. Antrim Coast Road, Northern Ireland 

A memorable coastal ride with spectacular sea views and gentle curves. Easy to push on or ease back depending on your confidence levels on the bike. 

10. Cotswolds Countryside Loop, England 

Rolling lanes and classic English scenery make this a lovely first longer ride back out. A great combination of idyllic scenery with relaxed riding. 

Before you set out on your first ride out of the year, here’s a few things to check before hitting the road: 

• Inspect tyre pressures, brake pads, fluids, lights and chain tension. A thorough season-start check reduces surprises later on in a lay-by. 

• Wear the proper gear. Check your gear from last year fits properly, fully functional and still stands up to the unpredictable weather, especially at this time of the season. 

• Ride to the conditions. Even on clear days wet surfaces, gravel or uneven tarmac can test your confidence. Stay slow in corners and stay observant. 

• Plan your breaks. Short stops for snacks and stretching your legs keeps you focused and alert. Aim for viewpoints and cafes along the route. 

For more tips, check out our guide for getting your bike road-ready for the new season. For ride outs and meet ups run by us, check out our Vertu Motorcycle Club page and social media channels.