Destination Guides

More than 15 years have passed since Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman released their Long Way Down and Long Way Round DVDs.

Doing so caused quite a stir among the ADV riding community. Some loved it and some simply didn’t. Certainly this was the first eye-opener for many into the adventure motorcycling community and caused quite an uptick in sales of both motorcycles and riding gear.

But the question remains: Is it still worth watching today? Let’s answer that question.

Long Way Round DVD

This was the first DVD released in October 2004 and documented Ewan and Charley’s ride from London to New York on BMW Motorcycles, paired with a support crew and a doctor.

It gained massive popularity and reviews, yet some negative critism regarding the use of support crews. After all, each year, thousands of adventure motorcyclists tour several countries with just them and their motorcycle, paired with some gear.

Yet this really opened the way for adventure riding and what’s ultimately possible on two wheels. For many, they finally saw true adventuring and away from the glossy tourist magazines and catchy Instagram photos (and yes, Instagram wasn’t around back then).

Even females and wives of adventure riders finally understood the notion of touring on 2 wheels. For many, this gave the gents a ‘ticket’ to finally get out there and start exploring, even if it was just their backcountry.

Long Way Down DVD

Several years later, in 2007, Long Way Down was released. This sequel covered their adventures from Europe and down into Africa. This was again with the same support crew of the previous series.

Some say this is even better than compared to Long Way Round. Some say it’s the same. Either way – it shows us what’s truly possible to see and the huge world that we live in, with both the beauty and dangers.

This is notably so as both Ewan and Charley visited multiple UNICEF Projects to get a first-hand glimpse into the work that is being done. This helped promote the work being done by this organisation.

Worth it?

So then, is it still worth watching this DVD series or purchasing it as a gift for someone? Ultimately:

The Long Way Round and Down DVD series’ is an excellent DVD set for those new or getting started into adventure riding. For the more experienced rider, there are today better influencers worth watching that see the world without support vehicles and elaborate camera crews.

The reviews on both DVDs are excellent and this series still holds a place in the hearts for those who love adventure and seeing new sights.

It’s hard to compare them with what’s available out there today. The industry has exploded and there is some serious talent in the world of amateur filmmaking. In fact, we’ll show you some great alternatives.

Alternatives to Long Way Round

These alternatives are worthwhile and often are seen by true adventure riders as the cornerstone of genuine adventure riding. No crews. No fancy or expensive motorcycles. Just a light motorcycle and a camera, just as it should be.

1. Motonomad

The work of Adam Riemann from Australia is Motonomad. He’s travelled to numerous countries/regions and has produced numerous series. This video in particular has received millions of views:

You’ll note that they have very light ‘adventure’ motorcycles. In fact, these are true adventure motorcycles, because heavy ADV bikes are typically only good for bitumen or showroom floors.

2. On Her Bike

The popular YouTube channel has tens of thousands of loyal subscribers who love the energetic spirit of Kinga who started her journey in Australia. Her editing is incredible and does away with jump cuts or slick scenes.

It’s just her…literally on her bike. Camping while travelling the world on her adventure bike without a support crew or sponsorship. On Her Bike has just genuine excitement!

3. Itchy Boots

Another excellent influencer is Itchy Boots by Noraly. Females tend to do better as motorcycle enthusiasts while serving a predominantly male audience.

Yes – Itchy Boots has been to Afghanistan among other wicked and exciting places in the world.

In Summary

The Long Way series certainly opened the doors for many to get into adventure motorcycling, from global discovery to backyard sightseeing. Was it too ‘over the top’? We think so.

There is no genuine need to have so much support or stuff when seeing the world. Just two wheels, some gear and a love for adventure. It’s very much a relevant series which ignited the spirit of adventure. These days, however, you’ll find more engaging content for free.

Update: Ewen and Charlie have just watched Long Way Up which is a series done on electric adventure motorcycles, so watch this space! Frontaer will have a review on this in the coming weeks once we’ve found the time to sit down and watch it.

Some people have pondered whether it’s possible to cross the Darien Gap with an adventure motorcycle such as a dirt bike or dual sport.

We’ve really dug into this question and have done our best to research this for adventure riders globally. Essentially, we’ve come back with the following.

It’s very much possible to cross the Darien Gap with a motorcycle, though it’s almost imossible with a car. The first time that the Darien Gap has been crossed with a motorcycle was in 1975 by Robert L. Webb, a journey which took several months. In 2020, it’s simply now far too dangerous to attempt a crossing by foot, bicycle, motorcycle or via car due to criminal drug lords and gangs, as well as animals and disease.

If you are attempting to cross between the Americas, then you have several alternative options. Let’s cover them in this post.

Getting around the Darien Gap

As we’ve outlined, it’s simply too dangerous for you to attempt a crossing of the Darien Gap. Instead, you should focus on how to get around this vast jungle area.

The 2 obvious options are:

1. Take a private boat. There are numerous ferry and fishing boats that traverse between the North and South each week. You might also want to consider a commercial vessel though the cost for these is significantly higher, but they are also safer too and insurance might actually cover you.
2. Fly your motorcycle. This is even more expensive, but a quick way around the jungle and it’s safer too. Logistically speaking, it’s more difficult and you’ll need to apply for permits and make your motorcycle ready for air freight.

Another option is a group ride where you combine your motorcycle in the same shipping container with several other keen adventure riders. Hiring a 20ft container to traverse between the North and South becomes much more cost-effective when shared among you, though it’s also a waiting game. The journey itself might take up to 4 weeks to see your motorbike again, during which time you’ll need to pay for accommodation somewhere.

Some riders take this time to fly home and see friends and family, before flying back and continuing the journey. Then again, most adventure riders aren’t comfortable on planes, which is why we choose to see the world on 2 wheels, right?!

For the committed

It’s going to take a serious amount of commitment to really have a crack at crossing the Darien Gap on any motorbike. Even on a bicycle, you’ll struggle to make progress daily which can take its toil.

The dangers are numerous:

• There are animals such as shakes and leopards. While you are able to fight these off in your state right now, consider the condition you’ll be in having to get your bike across many obstacles which is physically exhausting.
• The humidity is intense! You’ll be sweating any time of year that you attempt to do this…all fo the sake of the adventure and saving a few dollars on transit fees.
• Among the jungles are more troubles. Think tribes and criminals who are looking for a western indiividual or group to take advantage of. You can’t even take own weapons into the Darien Gap to protect yourself.
• If that all doesn’t hurt you, then consider the intensity of the jungle. Logs and fallen trees, no formed tracks, no toilets and no potable water. It’s going to be several weeks without a shower, and despite the hardest of adventure riders, we do seek some comfort.

There have been some recent attempts of the Darien Gap by adventure riders though no stories of success from what we hear. Stay tuned!

Where can you ride a dirt bike in Townsville? Well, we’ve done the research to find you the best trail bike riding spots within 2 hours of the CBD.

Owning a dirt bike is a ticket to freedom. But it can also be a ticket issued by a Queensland police officer or local ranger too if you’re not careful.

Frontaer wanted to write this guide to ensure you’re on the right path. As always, you will need to have a registered dirt bike and be licensed unless it’s private property or a motocross track.

Places to Ride a Dirt Bike near Townsville

Once you get out of the city, there are certainly a few good choices out there. Some of these you can ride your trail bike straight from home while others on this list will need some form of transport such as a trailer, ute or van. Buy one, hire one or simply pitch your mates’ unit for the weekend.

(Actually, just drag ’em along for the ride. The more the merrier!)

One strong recommendation is to join the Townsville Enduro Club. They are a non-profit enterprise who organize rides on private properties and beginners are welcome to join. The cost to join is very reasonable at $55 per year.

Now as for casual riding, here are the best dirt bike riding spots near Townsville:

1. Paluma Range National Park (Bluewater Track)

Head an hour north east of Townsville and you’ll come across a gem of a place to bring your dirt bike. This rainforest trail has waterfalls, mud and some technical sections.

In our opinion, it’s easily the best place to go dirt bike riding. You can easily do a day trip here with a group of mates. Leave in the morning and return home by sunset.

2. Townsville Motorcycle Club (Woodstock Motocross Track)

Why go anywhere at all? The Townsville Woodstock Motocross Track is located in Barringha about 15 minutes out of town.

This place is perfect for kids to learn how to ride a dirt bike while parents can also join in on the fun. Membership to the Townsville Motorcycle Club is affordable and there are several tracks here to chose from.

3. Dalrymple National Park

Head 90 minutes south-west of Townsville and you’ll come across the dirt bike riding mecca. The Dalrymple National Park is an awesome place to really open that throttle and explore the region.

This is the sorta place where you’ll want to bring your camping gear for an overnight journey. Camping is permitted here and there are sites for toy hauler caravans as well.

4. White Mountains National Park

Let’s be fair – this place is a few hours outside of Townsville. You’ll have to go past Charters Towers first because it’s that remote.

While the map doesn’t show much, there are certainly some undiscovered riding tracks that the locals like to hit up on weekends. Poison Valley Road is the way to go with the track being about 30km in length. If you’re sick of crowded tracks then this is for you.

Certainly for the adventure motorcycling enthusiast, this is worth the ride!

Tips to find riding tracks

Easily the best thing you could ever do is to join the DSMRA Townsville and Cairns branch. They organize about 10 rides per year in the wet season.

Another thing you can do is trade your MX bike in for an enduro bike that’s registered. This opens up so many more riding possibilities.

These 3 dirt bike shops can help you out:

• Rising Sun Motorcycles Townsville (Honda)
• Future Sport Motorcycles Townsville (KTM and Suzuki)
• SunCity Yamaha
• Townsville Kawasaki
• JR’s Motorcycles (Husqvarna)

These dirt bike stores can also help you find some riding local riding spots too.

Unfortunately for Townsville, there aren’t that many good riding spots near a town so it’s best to find tracks a couple of hours a way. Many locals head up to Cairns and explore the region up there over a long weekend.

Again – it’s best to jump on a group ride with DSMRA or the local motorcycle club. You can meet friends and discover new tracks while being in a safe and supportive environment with sweep riders.

Getting started

Now that you’ve got some idea on where you can ride, just remember that safety is key. Wear all your gear including a chest protector and avoid going solo if you can.

Townville is a great spot for adventure motorcycles and if trail bike riders have a trailer to haul their bike with, then they can have just as much fun.

Sydney has numerous places to ride dirt bikes which have either recreational or full registration. We’ve created this ultimate guide for riding spots.

Frontaer is leading the way with enduro and adventure motorcycling gear. We’re here for you as the rider to help progression in the offroad motorcycling world.

Places to Ride a Dirt Bike near Sydney

There are actually quite a few spots in Sydney where you can ride a dirt, MX or enduro bike offroad. These tracks and trails are opened by the New South Wales government provided you have a licence and rego. We’ll also mention some spots where you can ride without rego but will need to pay an entrance fee and pay the waiver.

We would easily recommend these riding spots:

1. Pacific Park Motorcycle Complex

Head out past Rousehill on the way to Windsor and turn right. Located near Cattai, the Pacific Park Motorcycle Complex in South Maroota is well-known to Sydney residents as the best dirt bike riding spot.

This is a great spot for experienced riders as well as families. They have a dedicated childrens learning area if you’ve just bought them a new dirt bike. There’s 2 tracks actually – one for toddlers and another for more advanced riders.

2. Yengo State Forest

A very popular spot for dirt bike riding near Sydney is Yengo State Forest. NSW National Parks has several trails available including Howes Trail and Big Yango Loop to Laguna. They also run rallies here. Note: You can’t ride in the National Park, only on the State Forest 4×4 tracks and trails.

There are reports of a police crackdown in this area with rangers and police born riding dirt bikes. Guess what? You’ll only be in trouble if you don’t have a licence of registration.

3. Louee Enduro and Motocross Complex

Located 3 hours from both Sydney and Newcastle (and 20 minutes from Mudgee) is the Louee Enduro and Motocross Complex. This place is hugely popular especially on weekends so get to the front gate early as they open.

This is the type of spot where you’ll bring some friends and camping gear. They have accommodation on site including cabins and camping.

4. Lochmaree Motorbike Park

Just like Louee above, you’ve gotta be committed for this and it’s best for a weekend camping trip. First you’ll drive the 2 hours to Goulburn then turn right for another hour of driving before *finally* unloading the trailer.

Lochmaree Motorbike Park is well worth the drive though as there are 2300 acres of enduro tracks. This place isn’t really built for MX riders though, but kids are welcome with reserved tracks.

5. Hartley Valley Holiday Farm

The last on our list isn’t our first choice as there are only 27 acres but it’s still a great spot. Head over to Hartley Valley Holiday Farm for a unique experience.

We say unique because in addition to dirt bike riding, you can also do horse riding as well as jump in the swimming pool, use the BMX bicycle track (yes, they have one!) or simply use the tennis or basketball courts.

Riding spot wrap up

Let’s make this as easy for you to make a decision about which dirt bike riding spot near Sydney appeals the most.

Name	Driving time	Address
Pacific Park	60 minutes	Pacific Park Drive, South Maroota NSW, 2756
Yengo	2 hours	Putty Road, Laguna NSW 2330
Louee	3.5 hours	Walkers Lane, Lue 2850
Lochmaree	3 hours	1987 Jerrong Road, Jerrong 2580
Hartley Valley	2 hours	2187 Great Western Highway, Little Artley NSW 2790

Driving time assumes the distance from Sydney city centre. If you live in Parramatta or Penrith then you can shave at least 30 minutes off these driving times.

Places exclusively for kids to ride motorcycles

Do your kids have dirt bikes? If so – riding is illegal on public land but even some of the MX tracks mentioned above can be daunting when you have 450s flying past them.

As a family-friendly alternative, you’ll need to choose one of these options:

1. Baulkham Hills Junior Motorcycle Training Club

This is the best kids dirt bike riding spot in Sydney. You won’t even have to travel that far as Baulkham Hills is only 20 minutes from Parramatta even in traffic.

2. Oakdale Junior Motorcycle Club

Oakdale MX track is another great one. It’s designed for kids bike development and welcomes kids from PeeWee size to 125cc. They run regular races and everyone is welcome to spectate.

3. Sutherland PCYC Minibike Club

Sutherland PCYC Minibike Club is worth checking out as well in the southern side of Sydney. This place doesn’t operate as frequently but they do have a good following on social media.

4. Hornsby Junior Dirt Bike Club

Last on our list for kids is the Hornsby Junior Dirt Bike Club. This is a great spot for skills development and the atmosphere is certainly friendly. Great spot to find other riding buddies as well!

Did we miss any riding spots?

There we have it! The most popular riding spots for both adults and kids. If you’re looking to build more skills then have a read of our dirt bike riding skills guide for total beginners and intermediate riders of all ages.

If we’ve missed any good riding spots on this list then just let us know in the comments below as we want to keep this list updated. Thanks!

Melbourne is home to some great riding spots whether you have a registered trail bike or unregistered dirt bike. Here are the best dirt riding spots around!

Frontaer has done the research for you. As a brand dedicated to the offroad riding and adventure motorcycling scene, we’re dedicated towards helping customers know where they can ride.

Melbourne dirt bike riding spots

Some of these will charge you an entry fee while other spots are completely free to ride, such as forest trails. Either way, you’ll finish the day with sore muscles but with a smile on your face.

Will you need transport? Well, unless you’re an adventure motorcycle or dual sport rider, then yes.

Most of Melbourne’s best dirt bike riding spots are in the Yarra Ranges National Park. This will require a recreational or full registration plus a licence for each rider which means kids can’t ride here in most cases.

One alternative is an MX club which we’ll mention on this list too.

If you’re looking for enduro, trail and motocross tracks near Melbourne then you’ve found it. These will all require at least one hour of driving from the city centre but they’re all worth it!

Let’s jump straight in for those ready to twist the throttle. Here are Melbourne’s best dirt bike riding spots:

1. Labertouche (Larby)

One of the most popular areas in Melbourne for dirt bike riding is Labertouche (the locals call it Larby) with heaps of tracks and hill climbs. It’s only half an hour from Berwick and is the best day-trip riding spot which is why we’ve ranked this #1.

While you’re there, do the Western and Gentle Annie Tracks which are a total blast!

2. Neerim South

More-so popular with motocross bikers, it’s still a great spot to find some tight technical sections that aren’t too rutted out. It’s loam and clay here which can get really sticky in the wet months.

3. Anglesea

This is a place you gotta get to! There are plenty of tracks to explore here and you’re only 20 minutes outside of Geelong. A lot of the local dirt bike riders know this riding spot like the back of their hand.

You’ll find all types of riding here and the surface is a bit sandy. Long sweeping sections paired with tight technical stuff.

4. Kinglake West

Kinglake West is a dirt bike haven but is also popular with 4x4s especially on weekends. Look out around corners and be aware of the other dirt bike and mountain bikers that also share these tracks.

5. Noojee

Most Melbourne riders with a few seasons behind them have been out to Noojee. It’s a clay service which makes things a bit slippery in the wet but the flow of the tracks make up for this quite easily.

6. Welshpool

If you decent drive with the trailer, then head over to Welshpool. Because of the distance it’s a little less popular but is great for the enduro rider who wants faster flowing tracks, not tight technical stuff.

7. Mount Taylor

Right – this is going to take a bit of commitment as it’s a couple of hours out of Melbourne. Mount Taylor is really the start of the high country and a place where epic trails begin, so worth the trip!

8. Glenmaggie

Every trail bike rider has to head to Glenmaggie at least once. Some riders say they’ve done this place 5 times and still haven’t found all the tracks, so that’s certainly saying something here!

9. Wesburn

You can ride dirt bikes in Wesburn but only when it’s NOT raining. The surface is quite boggy and most riders simply struggle. Even the 4×4 guys generally stay away from this place otherwise they’re winching all day long.

10. Big River

Big River is a really good spot outside of Melbourne to ride dirt bikes including unregistered motocross to Enduro bikes. You will still need a recreational-rego to ride here during daylight hours.

11. Rubicon

We really like Rubicon and there are certainly quite a number of tracks to explore. The place gets closed in summer sometimes when bushfires do threaten the area.

12. Cobaw

Sure – it’ might be small but still an awful lot of fun to be had here! It’s less popular so you’re not fighting over the trails with other offroad users which is a real plus for organized group rides.

13. Wye River

Not the best but Wye River does deliver some good riding tracks. It’s a fairly long drive to get there (up to 90 minutes) for kinda average riding though so keep that in mind. Do the rest first!

14. Broadmeadows Motocross Park

Head over to Cambellfield for the highly popular Broadmeadows Motocross Park. This is a pretty open area and they welcome beginners all the time. Rates are as follows:

Engine capacity	Fee per day	Members	Annual
70cc and below	$25	$15	$200
70cc to 230cc	$30	$20	$200
250 and above	$50	$30	$200

It’s a very family-centric place with 2 of their 3 tracks reserved just for kids from 4 years old to teenagers.

15. Nunawading & District Motocross Club

Another great motocross club to get to is Nunawading & District Motocross Club which you’ll find in Vermont South. Regular races are held but unlike Broadmeadows there is only 1 track here.

16. Ride Park

Just about every MX, supercross and trail bike rider heads here when they’re new. Ride Park is located at 395 Parwan South Road, Parwan and uniquely grooms their tracks daily.

If you’re a registered trail bike rider then the crowds here especially on weekends can be daunting. It’s the type of place where MX riders go to hone their skills and we recommend you head into the forest instead if you have registration on your dirt bike.

17. Tangil State Forest

One of the best dirt bike riding spots is Tangil State Forest! You basically have the Finns Loop, Good Luck Look and East Tanjil Loop sections to ride a motorcycle. You’re actually allowed to camp here as well.

18. Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale really has something for everyone. If you want to get into top gear or simply get through some tight technical sections, it’s quite enjoyable for all riders. Group rides sometimes operate here.

19. Tarago State Forest

Because this is a state forest, you will need to be registered. Unregistered dirt bikes even ridden by children aren’t legally allowed to be ridden here. If you have the rego, then you’ll love all the hidden tracks and trails.

20. Latrobe Trail Bike Area

Trail bikes often head to Latrobe State Forest on weekends which is east of Neerim South. There are only 2 main tracks – the Patrol Road loop and Latrobe River loop but you can also explore other dirt bike riding spots in the region within the same day. This makes for a great day trip from Melbourne.

21. Lerderderg State Park

Lerderderg State Park is certainly worth the mention and it’s one trail bike riding spot which isn’t as well known. Be warned though that police and local Parks Victoria rangers do patrol this area quite often on their DRZ-400Es.

22. Wombat State Forest

Daylesford residents often head into Wombat State Forest as their chosen trails with their dirt bikes. And you know what? There isn’t any reason that those from Melbourne can’t do the same.

23. Frankston City Motorcycle Park

Have we left the best until last? We think we have! Frankston City Motorcycle Park is quite impressive and welcomes people from all backgrounds. Yes, it’s more-so a MX track but it’s great for children learning to ride a dirt bike in a controlled environment.

There are 5 different tracks here which is quite impressive. Kids are more than welcome with a PeeWee track sectioned off just for them without the intimidation of bigger riders.

Melbourne riding spots explained

So there we have it! Just remember to do your research and check if the spot where you want to ride is still open, as some places do get closed without notice with Rangers/Police issuing fines.

Another word of caution: WEAR YOUR GEAR. Don’t think that just because you’re close to Melbourne that medical teams can get to you easily. Some of these spots are seriously rugged and tough to access. A helmet just isn’t enough.

We’re only speaking to a small minority nowadays which are commonly the disrespectful riders out for a weekend ride on the trails. They’re the type with the super loud exhaust bikes who get areas shut down because of their behaviour.

Trust us – a proper helmet, quality dirt/MX boots or adventure motorcycle boots, gloves, jersey, trousers and pads are needed at a minimum. We often see more and more trail and enduro riders opting to wear neck braces which we encourage.

In addition, it can get seriously hot in summer so pack a hydration pack full of water.

Need some more tips? We’ve written the ultimate dirt bike riding tips guide for beginners to help you become a better rider no matter where you are located.

Have we missed anything?

Let us know in the comments if you’ve come across an enduro, trail or motocross track near Melbourne that should be added to this list. Even if you’re an adventure bike rider, we’d still love to know where else to ride as would the offroad motorcycling community!