Sydney's autumn riding season is one of the best-kept secrets in Australian motorcycling. From late April through June, the heat breaks, the roads empty out, and you get perfect 16–22°C conditions with clear skies. Here are five day rides that are absolutely worth your time.
1. The Old Pacific Highway (Old Pac) — Sydney to Gosford
Distance: ~120km return | Riding time: 2–3 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate
A Sydney classic. The Old Pacific Highway from Cowan to Gosford is everything a good road should be — sweeping bends, elevation changes, forest canopy overhead, and almost zero trucks. Start early from Alexandria (about 45 minutes to Cowan via the F3), then enjoy the highway itself before grabbing a coffee at Gosford and heading back via the motorway. Autumn mornings here are misty and cool — perfect conditions for mid-layer gear.
Best in: April–May (before winter cold hits the elevation)
Gear tip: Bring a waterproof layer — the forest sections stay damp in the mornings.
2. Putty Road — Windsor to Singleton
Distance: ~280km return | Riding time: 4–5 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
If you've never ridden Putty Road, you're missing one of NSW's great motorcycling stretches. The 170km run from Windsor through the Wollemi National Park to Singleton is a mix of fast sweepers and technical switchbacks through remote bushland. Fuel up in Windsor before you leave — there's nothing in between. The autumn colours in the valley sections are genuinely beautiful.
Best in: May–June
Gear tip: Full adventure kit recommended — remote road, variable surface conditions.
3. Royal National Park — Audley Loop
Distance: ~90km return from Alexandria | Riding time: 1.5–2 hours | Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
The closest proper ride to our Alexandria store. Head south down the Princes Highway, enter the Royal National Park via Farnell Avenue, and take the loop through Audley to Bundeena. The roads inside the park are smooth, low-speed, and scenic — ideal for newer riders or those breaking in new boots. Stop at Audley Weir for a break. The autumn light through the eucalypts is genuinely something special.
Best in: April–June (park is quieter midweek)
Gear tip: Entry fee applies — have cash or card ready at the gate.
4. Bells Line of Road — Richmond to Lithgow
Distance: ~250km return | Riding time: 4–5 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate
Often called the "better Blue Mountains road," Bells Line runs along the ridge of the Great Dividing Range with jaw-dropping valley views. The road is well-maintained, the corners are predictable, and the traffic is a fraction of what you'll find on the Great Western Highway. Stop at Mount Tomah Botanic Garden mid-ride — it's spectacular in autumn. End in Lithgow for lunch before the return trip.
Best in: April–May (autumn leaves at Mount Tomah are world-class)
Gear tip: Temperature drops fast at elevation — pack a thermal mid-layer even on warm days.
5. Macquarie Pass — Wollongong to Robertson
Distance: ~220km return from Sydney | Riding time: 3.5–4.5 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Head south to Wollongong via the Sea Cliff Bridge — already one of Australia's most photogenic roads — then cut inland up Macquarie Pass into the Southern Highlands. The Pass itself is tight and technical, with rainforest on both sides. Robertson is a great stop for the famous Robertson pie (seriously, go). Return via Kangaroo Valley for bonus riding and a river stop. This is a full day but absolutely worth it.
Best in: April–May
Gear tip: Macquarie Pass stays wet year-round — check tyres before you go.
Before You Ride: Everest's Autumn Gear Checklist
- Helmet: Anti-fog visor or Pinlock insert — autumn mornings create condensation
- Jacket: Mid-layer with wind/water resistance for 15–22°C range
- Gloves: Switch to a slightly warmer glove as May approaches
- Tyres: Check pressure and tread — cold roads reduce grip at stock summer pressures
- Chain: Lubricate before any long ride — autumn humidity accelerates corrosion
Need any of the above? Shop at Everest Motorcycles — we're at 294 Botany Rd, Alexandria, or order online with free shipping over $70.
Got a favourite Sydney autumn ride we missed? Email us at admin@everestmotorcycles.com — we're always looking for good roads.