The United States offers motorcyclists an unparalleled diversity of landscapes, from the Pacific Coast’s dramatic cliffs to the Appalachian Mountains’ rolling greenery. For international riders, touring the U.S. by motorcycle is a bucket-list experience-one made easier by the absence of tariffs on temporarily imported bikes. This guide covers everything you need to know to explore America’s legendary roads on two wheels, from shipping your bike to navigating legal requirements and discovering hidden gems.
Route 66: The 2,448-mile "Mother Road" from Chicago to Santa Monica blends history, kitsch, and desert vistas.
Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1): Coastal curves from San Francisco to Los Angeles, with ocean views at every turn.
Blue Ridge Parkway: 469 miles of Appalachian Mountain serenity, ideal for cruisers and touring bikes.
Beartooth Highway (US-212): High-altitude thrills in Montana/Wyoming, often called "the most beautiful road in America."
Deserts: Mojave, Sonoran, and Painted Deserts offer stark beauty and year-round riding.
Mountains: Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Smokies provide challenging twisties and cooler summer temps.
National Parks: Ride through Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Grand Canyon on bike-friendly roads.
Events: Sturgis Rally (SD), Daytona Bike Week (FL), and Laconia Motorcycle Week (NH).
Lodging: Biker-friendly motels with secure parking, like the Route 19 Inn in Maggie Valley, NC.
Community: Local riders often welcome international tourists with tips and camaraderie.
No Tariffs: Bikes imported for tourism (under 12 months) are duty-free.
EPA/DOT Exemption: Vehicles over 25 years old bypass emissions and safety compliance.
Documentation:
Original registration/title
Proof of insurance valid in the U.S.
Completed CBP Form 7501
| Method | Cost (Est.) | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | $3,000–$5,000 | 3–7 days | Urgent trips |
| RoRo (Roll-on) | $1,500–$2,500 | 2–4 weeks | Budget-conscious |
| Container | $2,000–$4,000 | 3–6 weeks | High-value bikes |
Length: 11 miles
Highlights: 318 curves, Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort, Fontana Dam.
Best Time: Spring/Fall to avoid summer crowds.
Length: 50 miles
Highlights: Glacier National Park, Logan Pass, glacial lakes.
Note: Open seasonally (June–Oct).
Length: 100 miles
Highlights: Ranch Roads 335/336/337, Lone Star State’s best-kept secret.
Length: 350 miles
Highlights: Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Needles Highway.
Length: 469 miles
Highlights: Shenandoah Valley, Asheville craft breweries, fall foliage.
IDP Required: Carry an International Driving Permit with motorcycle endorsement.
Home License: Must be valid and translated into English if necessary.
Minimum Coverage: Liability insurance (varies by state).
Temporary Policies: Providers like Progressive offer 30-day plans for foreign riders.
Headlights: Adjust for right-hand traffic if importing a left-hand drive bike.
Emblems: Non-US bikes may need a “For Export Only” sticker to avoid EPA issues.
Rider: Klaus M., BMW R1250GS
Route: Los Angeles → Grand Canyon → Monument Valley → Las Vegas (1,200 miles)
Costs:
Shipping: €1,800 (RoRo from Hamburg)
Insurance: $150/month (Progressive)
Fuel: $220 (Premium unleaded)
Highlight: “Riding through Joshua Tree at sunrise-unforgettable. Americans love GS bikes!”
Southwest: Oct–April (avoid summer heat).
Northern States: June–Sept (watch for mountain snow).
Fuel Stops: Pay at the pump requires a ZIP code-use 90210 if your card rejects.
Tipping: 15–20% at restaurants, $2–$5 for valet bike parking.
Apps: Rever (route planning), GasBuddy (fuel prices).
Forums: ADVrider for meetups and trail advice.
The U.S. remains one of the world’s premier motorcycle tourism destinations, offering endless roads, welcoming communities, and hassle-free import rules for visiting riders. By understanding the logistics and leveraging expert shipping partners, international motorcyclists can focus on what matters most-experiencing the freedom of the open road.
Contact West Coast Shipping for personalized support on temporary imports and route planning.