Top Motorcycle Roads in Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the US, but it packs a punch when it comes to motorcycle riding. From coastal routes to winding back roads, the Ocean State offers diverse landscapes for riders to explore. Before we dive into Rhode Island’s offerings, it’s worth noting that neighboring states like Connecticut and Massachusetts also boast excellent rides for those looking to extend their journey.
1. US Route 44 (Putnam Pike)
- Location: From Providence to Connecticut state line
- Distance: 30 miles one way
- Key features: Scenic route through picturesque small towns
- Notable attractions: Glocester, Harmony, Chepachet, Pascoag Reservoir, Hawkins Pond Town Forest, Waterman’s Reservoir
This route offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty, winding through charming New England towns and past serene bodies of water.
2. State Route 94
- Location: Junction of RI Route 94 and RI Route 102
- Distance: 50 miles round trip
- Key features: Twisting route with natural scenery
- Notable attractions: George Washington State Campground, Lake Washington, Sprague Farm Town Forest
State Route 94 is a motorcyclist’s dream, with its twisting roads and lush, green surroundings. The route provides ample opportunities for rest stops and scenic views.
3. Route 102 Scenic Corridor
- Location: From Massachusetts state line to Newport
- Distance: Approximately 52 miles
- Key features: Meandering route through small towns, avoiding Providence traffic
- Notable attractions: Glocester, Masonville, West Greenville, Exeter, Wickford
This route offers a great alternative to busier roads, allowing riders to experience the rural charm of Rhode Island’s smaller communities.
4. Ocean Drive Cruise
- Location: Newport
- Key features: Coastal scenery, historic district
- Notable attractions: Brenton Point State Park, Ocean Drive Historic District
Ocean Drive provides riders with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and glimpses of Newport’s famous Gilded Age mansions.
Best Motorcycle Rides in Rhode Island
1. Western Rhode Island Loop
- Location: Western Rhode Island and eastern Connecticut
- Distance: 50 miles
- Key features: Back country roads, hills, curves, and straights
- Notable attractions: Beach Pond, Boone Lake, Hammitt Hill, Pine Hill
This loop offers a diverse riding experience, with a mix of challenging curves and relaxing straight stretches. It’s perfect for riders looking to test their skills while enjoying scenic views.
2. Middle Rhode Island Loop
- Location: Coventry, Foster, and Scituate
- Distance: 25 miles
- Key features: Twists and curves, peaceful and scenic tour
- Notable attractions: Scituate Reservoir, Flat River Reservoir
Ideal for a quick afternoon ride, this loop showcases Rhode Island’s natural beauty and provides a peaceful escape from urban areas.
3. Scenic Route to Narragansett Bay
- Location: From Smithfield to Point Judith
- Distance: 62 miles one way
- Key features: Quaint small towns, natural scenery, twisting roads
- Best time to ride: Summer months
- Notable attractions: Point Judith Lighthouse
This route takes riders through the heart of Rhode Island, culminating in stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the historic Point Judith Lighthouse.
4. Jamestown Loop
- Location: Conanicut Island
- Distance: 20 miles
- Key features: Scenic route with farmland and beaches
- Notable attractions: Beavertail Lighthouse, Conanicut Island Lighthouse, panoramic ocean views
The Jamestown Loop offers a perfect mix of coastal and rural scenery, with two lighthouses and breathtaking ocean vistas.
5. Middletown to Newport Ride
- Location: From Middletown to Newport
- Distance: 12 miles
- Key features: Twisting roads, gentle curves, beaches, and farmland
- Notable attractions: Third Beach, Second Beach, Brenton Point State Park, Ocean Drive Historic District
This short but sweet ride combines the best of Rhode Island’s coastal beauty with its rich history, ending in the iconic city of Newport.
6. Richmond to Misquamicut Beach
- Location: Southwestern Rhode Island
- Distance: 25 miles
- Key features: Coastal scenery, wildlife refuges
- Notable attractions: Indian Cedar Swamp Management area, Ningret National Wildlife Refuge, Burlingame State Park, Misquamicut Beach
This ride showcases Rhode Island’s diverse ecosystems, from cedar swamps to coastal refuges, ending at the popular Misquamicut Beach.
Motorcycle Laws in Rhode Island
Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Rhode Island’s motorcycle laws. Some key points include mandatory helmet use for riders under 21, eye protection requirements, and restrictions on handlebar height.
Planning Your Rhode Island Motorcycle Adventure
When planning your ride through Rhode Island, consider the state’s relatively mild climate, with the best riding conditions typically from late spring to early fall. Be prepared for occasional coastal fog, especially in the morning hours.
For those looking to extend their journey, Connecticut’s motorcycle routes offer a great continuation of your New England adventure. To the north, Massachusetts boasts its own set of scenic rides that complement Rhode Island’s offerings perfectly. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or winding through the rural inland, Rhode Island’s diverse landscape ensures an unforgettable riding experience.
Motorcycle Rides in the US by States
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Vishwanath Mathpati
I am Vishwanath Mathpati, a full-time Blogger and Motorcyclist from Bidar, Karnataka. I love writing about my Motorcycles Stories and Riding Gears on this blog.
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