Riding Across Australia on a Harley — Route Planning Guide

Australia — A Harley Rider's Paradise

Australia's riding statistics are staggering. The country covers 7.7 million square kilometres. The Nullarbor Plain stretches for nearly 1,200 kilometres. The Stuart Highway runs 2,834 kilometres from Adelaide to Darwin through the red heart of the continent.

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

The Great Ocean Road between Torquay and Allansford hugs the coastline above the Southern Ocean, passing surf beaches, dense rainforest, and the limestone formations of the Twelve Apostles.

Allow at least two days. The viewpoints and towns mean you will rarely cover more than 100 kilometres between breaks.

The Twelve Apostles are most dramatic at sunrise or sunset when the coach tours are absent.

The Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Highway running north from Sydney along Australia's east coast through Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, and the Gold Coast to Brisbane is the most popular coastal touring route.

Byron Bay — Australia's most easterly point — is an essential stop.

The Stuart Highway — Adelaide to Darwin

This is serious distance riding — 2,834 kilometres with fuel stops sometimes 200 kilometres apart.

• Carry at least 20 litres of extra fuel
• Ride early in the day — temperatures above 40C are common in the Red Centre
• Book accommodation in Alice Springs and Coober Pedy in advance

Uluru is 450 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs on the Lasseter Highway. The sunrise view is genuinely unmissable.

Practical Tips

• Wildlife — kangaroos are active at dawn, dusk, and night. Avoid riding in low light in rural areas
• Heat — the best touring seasons are autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November)
• Use Global Rider to find Australian H.O.G. chapters before your trip