What is The Road Ahead?

The Road Ahead manages 1 data type including tour reviews. Helps you organize, track, and share your work in 1 place for teams and solo users.

How long does the trip take?

Sixteen days is the sweet spot — fourteen riding days and two off-bike days to properly see Santa Fe and the Grand Canyon. It can be done in twelve if you push, but you'll wish you hadn't.

What is the best time of year to ride Route 66?

Late May to mid-June and September to mid-October. You avoid the peak Southwest summer heat and the July–August monsoon storms, and the light is at its best.

How far is the total distance?

Approximately 2,448 miles along the historic alignment. Your actual odometer will read a little more depending on the detours and old alignments you choose to ride.

Which states does Route 66 pass through?

Eight: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California — from Chicago to Santa Monica.

Do I need a big motorcycle for this trip?

No. Anything from a 250cc upwards will manage it comfortably. The road is almost entirely paved. Comfort and reliability matter far more than capacity — an adventure or touring bike is ideal.

Is it all the original road?

No — much was replaced by Interstate 40, especially in the West. But long, continuous stretches of the historic 1926–1985 alignment survive and run alongside the interstate. Our GPX keeps you on the old road wherever it exists.

What does a typical riding day look like?

Most days are 100–200 miles over 3–5 hours, with one long 280-mile day and one 320-mile desert crossing. We start early and aim to be off the bike by early afternoon to explore or rest.

How much does the trip cost?

It varies hugely by style — camping and diners versus historic motels and steakhouses. Use our budget calculator for a tailored estimate across fuel, lodging, food and attractions.

Can I camp along the route?

Yes, there are campgrounds throughout, but the classic Route 66 experience is the neon motel. Most riders mix the two — camping in the West and motels near the towns.

Is the riding dangerous?

Not especially, but it demands respect. The hazards are real: heat, long distances, wildlife at dusk in Texas, and monsoon flash floods in Arizona. Ride defensively, start early and the road rewards you.

What about phone signal and navigation?

Expect long dead zones in New Mexico, Arizona and the Mojave. Pre-load the GPX onto a dedicated GPS or an offline phone app — never rely on live cell data for routing.

What paperwork do I need as a UK rider?

A valid driving licence (an International Driving Permit is wise), passport, and proof of motorcycle insurance. If you're renting, the rental company handles the bike's paperwork.

Should I rent or ship my own bike?

Most overseas riders rent — EagleRider and similar outfits have pickup points in Chicago and LA. Shipping your own is only worth it for a long, multi-trip stay in the US.

Are there tolls on Route 66?

Very few along the historic alignment itself. A handful around Chicago and the occasional bridge. Budget a small amount; it is not a major cost.

What is the weather like?

Wildly varied. Chicago can be cool, the Southwest scorching by day and near-freezing at altitude by night, and the Pacific mild. Pack layers and check the forecast daily — that is the whole game.

Can I do part of the route instead of all of it?

Absolutely. Many riders do a section — the Southwest (New Mexico to California) is the most iconic and can be done in 7–8 days. Our itinerary planner lets you save and export any subset of days.

Route 66 FAQ

The questions every rider asks before 2,448 miles of the Mother Road — answered from our end-to-end ride.

Back to Route 66 Start planning

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