route 66 trike tours

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Route 66 Motorcycle Tour™

Guided tour - 15 days/ 14 nights, 2807 mi 4491.2 km, summer, spring, fall, 55 - 105 °f 12.8 - 40.6 °c.

EagleRider's World famous Route 66 motorcycle tour travels the original Route 66, known as the "Mainstreet of America" or "Mother Road" . At over 2400 miles long from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 crosses three time zones and 8 States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. Route 66 has been the path of migrants, dreamers, desperadoes and an entire generation of vacationers discovering the way west. The 1950's were the Route 66 glory days, when thousands of cars rode bumper to bumper behind each other to experience the Western frontier. Hotels, motels, gas stations, classic restaurants, and the "New" America sprang up everywhere. Much of Route 66's classic roads, restaurants, gas stations, and nostalgic landmarks are preserved just as they were in the 1950’s. The famous and nostalgic Route 66 is the road created in heaven for motorcycle touring. Simply stated, this is the guided tour of America!

Transform your journey into an exhilarating Tour by selecting one of our incredible Harley models such as the Harley-Davidson Street Glide Touring Edition, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Harley-Davidson Road Glide, Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic, Harley-Davidson Street Bob, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Touring Edition, or for a different riding experience, choose from our sport touring models like the Yamaha FJR1300, and Yamaha Super Tenere 1200.

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Tour Itinerary

0 mi / 0 km, chicago, il - arrival.

Welcome to the Windy City! Nicknamed the 'Paris of the Prairie', Chicago is the biggest and most exciting of the Great Lake cities. It includes a stunning skyline along Lake Michigan, and a gamut of top-rated museums, restaurants and cafes, and innumerable bars and nightclubs that pay homage to the city’s strong jazz and blues heritage. Tonight you will get to meet your fellow riders and Tour Guides at an Orientation Meeting at the tour hotel, followed by a great Welcome Dinner to kick-off your dream Route 66 journey!

187 mi / 299.2 km

Chicago, il – springfield, il.

This morning you pick up your bike and are off to the ultimate American road trip. The legendary Route 66 begins at the doorstep of our EagleRider location, cutting through the state of Illinois before running all the way to the Pacific Coast. From Chicago you head south along the Pontiac Trail, the original name for this bit of the road here, passing through Joliet, stopping at the amazing RT 66 Museum in Pontiac and generally getting a feel for the rubber on the Mother Road.

116 mi / 185.6 km

Springfield, il – st. louis, mo.

Today we head towards St. Louis! We will stay primarily on the 2-lane sections of the Mother Road, traversing cornfields and small towns that represent the heartland of America. Our arrival into St. Louis will be over the Chain of Rocks Bridge, the original bridge where RT 66 crossed the Mississippi River. Enjoy the short ride today into the "Gateway to the West," St. Louis. This amazing city rests along the shores of the mighty Mississippi River and is home to some of the best live music and BBQ ribs in the country.

15 Days Guided Route 66 Motorcycle Tour™ Inclusions

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Tour experiences caught on camera.

EagleRider tour guide on his 66th tour of famous Route 66

EagleRider's Route 66 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Route 66 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Day 7 & 8

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Route 66 Self-Guided Motorcycle Tour

Self-Guided

15 Days/ 14 Nights

• Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle

Route 66 Self Guided Motorcycle Tour

14 or 21 night self guided motorcycle tour from £3,796pp including flights, motorbike rental and accommodation, see iconic america at it’s best with a route 66 self guided motorcycle tour from complete north america. , the route is 2400 miles long from chicago to los angeles, and crosses three time zones and eight states: illinois, missouri, kansas, oklahoma, texas, new mexico, arizona and california..

DISCOVER ROUTE 66 YOUR WAY.

Take it as you see it or change it to suit. This Route 66 motorcycle holiday can be tailored to suit your own tastes & budget.

All our holidays offer complete financial protection and you will receive a uniquely personalised travelling pack to ensure you get the most from your adventure.

What you get

Explore route 66.

14 nights from £3,796  and 21 nights from £5,876

Day 1 Chicago Arrival

Depart London Heathrow – 11:50 Arrive Chicago – 13:55 Journey Time – 8 hours 30 minutes

Upon arrival into Chicago O’Hare airport proceed to your overnight hotel located in downtown Chicago, here you can begin your own historic ‘road trip’ after settling in. Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue, Watertower Place, the Navy Pier, the Merchandise Mart, Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum are not far away.

As you explore one or a selection of these world class attractions, you can begin thinking about your upcoming journey on the Mother Road. Although Route 66 virtually parallels the interstate anywhere portions of the actual road exist, even today hundreds of men & women, young and old, take this trip every year from Chicago to Los Angeles. America unfolds as you travel through the Ozarks, authentic American towns in southwest and vast open deserts. You can start your trip at Grant Park, the exact place where Route 66 begins.

Route 66 through Illinois was first used by Native Americans as a trading path followed by fur trappers and traders who sought a path to the Mississippi River to ship their goods downstream to French New Orleans. Al Capone and the rumrunners kept the road busy right after it became the first fully paved highway in Illinois in the early 1920s. When the old Route 66 road signs came down in 1977, the strong relationship of the road to the people who travel it brought new Historic Route 66 signs back almost immediately. When the highway department would not pay for them, bake sales, auctions, festivals and other truly American events raised money to bring them back.

Overnight – Chicago

Day 2 Chicago to St. Louis 300 miles

This morning you will collect your bike.

Most of today will be spent traveling through Illinois farmlands on your way to St. Louis, the crossroads where highways from Chicago, Kansas City, Memphis, Nashville, and Indianapolis meet. The city was originally the focal point of Indian trails that ran all across the US and the jumping off point for Lewis and Clark’s Expedition of Discovery to open the West through the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase. It will also be your jumping off point to points south and west, as you begin your journey through the wide open spaces.

Springfield, the Illinois State Capital, is Abraham Lincoln country. He left here to serve as President of the United States during the most awful period in American history, the Civil War and returned as a fallen hero, a casualty of the same war. New Salem where Lincoln lived and worked for six years has been reconstructed. Costumed interpreters bring the village alive. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is the centerpiece of a four block historic neighborhood. The President’s Tomb, Presidential Library and original law office are also open for touring.

As you cross from Illinois into Missouri you’ll be crossing the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge. Be sure to stop at Ted Drew’s Frozen Custard, serving Route 66 travelers since 1929. In St. Louis, the original Route 66 tracked through town very near the Gateway Arch and we definitely recommend riding the elevator inside Arch to the top of the 630 foot structure. Spectacular views of the Mississippi River await. In the evening, you can catch up with the St. Louie Blues, which were born right here and taste the fruits of Anheuser-Busch, the world’s largest brewer.

Overnight – St. Louis  

Day 3 St. Louis to Springfield 210 miles

Route 66 from St. Louis to Springfield, Missouri takes you through the lush rolling hills of the Missouri Ozark Mountains. The road follows the Great Osage Trail, a major Indian path across the state and a route used by Jess James, of famed James Gang fame, who locals knew as ‘just a nice Missouri boy!’ One of the most famous attractions on Route 66, Meramec Caverns was also used by the James Gang as a hideout when escaping the law. Lester Dill who owns Meramec Caverns started the American advertising institution, the bumper sticker, when he gave away portable advertising to all who stopped by to visit.

Much of the rural Ozark region, punctuated by the second oldest mountains in the world, looks much as it did when the first settlers arrived. Springfield has been bustling since the St. Louis-San Francisco railroad arrived in 1870. Even though most of Route 66 through here is now Interstate-44, remnants of the old road are everywhere just off the highway.

Interestingly, Springfield is considered the mother of the Mother Road itself. It was here that Cyrus Avery of Oklahoma who fought for a route through Oklahoma met with John Woodruff of Springfield, to plan and promote the idea of an interregional link that would bring trade and access to the area. In honor, Springfield has preserved much of the old highway frontage along St. Louis Street as well as the ‘Chestnut Expressway.’ If you’re a fan of western lore, delve into the ‘Wild’ Bill Hickock legend surrounding his fellow gambler Dave Tutt. There are so many different stories no one really knows what happened.

Overnight – Springfield

Day 4 Springfield to Tulsa to Oklahoma City 310 miles

Oklahoma was the home of Cyrus Avery, who came to be known as the ‘Father of Route 66.’ After he was appointed to head the commission that reviewed the routes of new national highways, he fought for several years to bring a major highway through his home state, knowing it would boost the economy. Ultimately, he was successful in the choice of a route that followed the National Old Trails Road in 1925, which just happened to cross right through the middle of Oklahoma.

‘Been on this road for a mighty long time, Ten million men like me, You drive us from you’ town We ramble around And got them 66 Highway Blues.’

Woody Guthrie of ‘This Land is Your Land’ fame who hailed from Oklahoma, illustrated the icon which Route 66 had already become in a song that told of the plight of the Okies fleeing to California. The Los Angeles police stationed themselves at the Arizona border in 1934 to stop the flood of Dust Bowlers looking for a better life.

Southwest of Springfield, you’ll begin to see why they would leave, as the landscape changes from the rich crop raising Midwest into the American southwest; red, dry and dusty. During the1930s, more than 15% of Oklahoma’s population took Route 66 to escape the constantly blowing sand. They picked up their belongings, their families, their hopes and their dreams and headed west.

After World War II, the pretty Oklahoma City referred to by the Nat King Cole in ‘Get Your Kicks on Route 66’ rose to new heights during the oil boom (the State Capitol is the only one in the country with an oil well on the grounds), only to suffer a dramatic decline at the end of the 1980s. Since then, the city has gone through an astounding transformation which continued during the re-building which followed the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. The monument to the victims is very moving and an adjacent museum tells the story.

For nightlife, make sure you visit Bricktown, a former warehouse district that has been reinvigorated with restaurants, cafes, night clubs and a vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight – Oklahoma City

Day 5 Oklahoma City to Amarillo 260 miles

For the traveler going west on Route 66, Texas is Cowboy Country. It is here that some of the most wonderful icons of Route 66, those ‘functional simple buildings that were adorned with all manner of exterior signs promising all things larger than life, still exist. Two headed snakes, reptile farms, alligators, wondrous caves and petrified mummies all vied for the attention of the vacationer in a unique side show that would have made P. T. Barnum proud. The tales carried home from these vacations would entice and amaze the neighborhood for months.

Amarillo is one of the last places on earth where the Old West is just minutes away or depending on where you are, could be closer than that. The vast ranches of the Texas Panhandle, some numbering in the millions of acres are just outside of Amarillo. Shortly after being discovered by Spanish explorer Francisco Coronado in 1541, the area became a magnet for cattlemen and sheep herders from all points of the compass looking for fresh grazing grounds. As the Dust Bowl farmers headed to California, more cattlemen and cowhands moved in to claim the same territory for ranching. Step into ‘The Real Texas’ as the locals say.

Today, Amarillo and the surrounding Panhandle area is still a unique blend of the Old West and the New West, populated by American cowboys, roughnecks and self made millionaires and the ever present oil derricks. Working ranches, essentially unchanged from the day-to-day operations of the late nineteenth century peacefully coexist with a vibrant twenty-first century economy powered by petroleum. More than 2 million cattle are still shipped out of Amarillo each year. Make sure to drive Amarillo Boulevard which is the original Route 66 that is still lined with block after block of strip shopping centers and roadside motels straight out of the 1950s.

Overnight – Amarillo

Day 6 Amarillo to Tucumcari 120 miles

For many people traveling the old Mother Road during its hey-day, New Mexico presented their first glimpse of the more exotic cultures of the Southwest. To people who had never left the Midwest before, it was as if they had entered another country. Back then, the Native American and Spanish cultures were much stronger, not having been diluted as much with contemporary life. It was a fascinating heritage of old Indian Pueblos that dated back to before European colonization and Santa Fe and Albuquerque that looked like they could have fallen straight out of Mexico with adobe buildings and a Spanish plaza in the middle town. What adventure and discovery these lands presented; a phenomenal contrast to Middle America.

Unique to New Mexico also was the number of Mom and Pop businesses that sprung up along Route 66. Some are still there. More amazing are the materials used to create workable spaces for the businesses. Crates left over from World War II became the walls of a motor court. Oilcans became shingles used to roof a service station. Cast away bottles and roadside trash became the material to create a wondrous roadside attraction. Diners could be ordered from a catalog and shipped by railroad to their destination. These are the same icons we marvel at along the road that so represented America’s love affair with the automobile. As a result, New Mexico still has the most miles of original Route 66 that can be driven today.

On your way between Amarillo and Tucumcari, New Mexico, be sure to stop at Cadillac Ranch to see the ten tail- finned Cadillacs buried in the sand.

Once nicknamed ‘Six-Shooter Siding,’ Tucumcari, New Mexico got its start in 1901 as a rowdy railroad camp filled with saloons and outlaws. Soon, it became one of the many small railroad towns in the southwest with a flagging economy and diminishing population. Today, Route 66 is critically important, since it was the new businesses that were established along Route 66 which allowed Tucumcari to hang on, when other towns failed completely. Realizing that they have one of a handful of authentic roadside towns still intact and thriving has promoted a renaissance and revival among the gentlemen and businesses who just refused to let this wonderful piece of Americana and the American ‘road trip’ pass away entirely. Let the signs that read ‘Tucumcari Tonight!’ beckon you to this interesting place.

Overnight – Tucumcari

Day 7 Tucumcari to Albuquerque 180 miles

Next up, Albuquerque – New Mexico’s capital city. Younger than its more northerly counterpart, Santa Fe, Albuquerque was founded in 1706 by a group of Spanish colonists who were granted permission by the King of Spain to establish a new city on the river. Old Town Plaza was the result of Spain’s Laws of the Indies which required setting a plaza at the center of any city. This Plaza still fronts the San Felipe Neri Church complex built in 1793 and the El Camino Real, the main route through town that connected Santa Fe and Albuquerque with Mexico City. The Santa Fe Trail also criss-crossed the region in 1821. Today, both routes are National Scenic Byways and All American Roads.

Historic neon signs still glow on the old Route 66 through Albuquerque which is now Central Avenue. Alongside the vintage signs, you’ll see new versions put up by businesses that are continuing the aesthetic traditions of the old Route 66, adorning their shops with bright buzzing neon. The famous Route 66 continues to guide visitors through Albuquerque from the volcanoes on the city’s far west side past the Rio Grande Botanical Garden and the Albuquerque Aquarium through the historic Old Towns and Downtown business districts and continuing eastward through the University of New Mexico and trendy Nob Hill, where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants, distinctive shops and boutiques.

Overnight – Albuquerque

Day 8 Explore Albuquerque

As you complete the self-guided Historic Walking Tour from Plaza to Plaza, you will be passing from Old ‘Villa Albuquerque’ in Old Town, to the Downtown Civic Plaza, created in 1972. In between, you will witness 300 years of history.

It will be challenging to determine which other places to visit. Sandia Peak Tramway takes you over 2.5 miles to the 10,000 foot peak of the Sandia Mountains. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque Museum and the National Hispanic Cultural Center to learn more about local culture and history. Petroglyphs at the Petroglyph National Museum and El Morro National Monument reveal the life of ancient peoples who inhabited the area. The National Atomic Museum and Trinity Site, the exact spot where the first atomic bomb was detonated tell the story of this momentous event in American history.

Alternatively take a drive North East (approx 64 miles/1 hour) along Highway 25 to historic & cultural Santa Fe.

Day 9 Albuquerque to Holbrook 230 miles

On the way between Albuquerque and Holbrook, you’ll be entering the dramatic lands of western New Mexico and ultimately traveling through the Navajo Reservation. The New Mexico Mining Museum at Grants has replicated an entire uranium mine. Natural attractions include the El Malpais National Monument, the Continental Divide. The excavated Pueblo at Inspiration Rock dates back to AD 1200. Skirting the southern foothills of the Zuni Mountains, the drive along Highway 53 is likely the most scenic in all of New Mexico.

Staying on this route brings you to Gallup, you can follow Hwy 40/Route 66 thru Gallup for about 9 miles until you reconnect with I-40. The Rex Museum in downtown Gallup offers local history including the WWII saga of the Navajo code talkers and Route 66 of course. Crossing into Arizona this part of the highway runs through a canyon with dramatic scenery. At Lupton you can see the Giant Tee Pee Trading Post whose Native American arts and crafts are made locally. Watch for the exits for Painted Desert and Petrified Forest before arriving to Holbrook. In Holbrook stop at the Wigwam Motel for a picture in front of the teepee motel rooms.

Overnight – Holbrook

Day 10 Holbrook to Williams 125 miles

Just outside Joseph City you finally reach the famous Jackrabbit Trading Post whose iconic billboards are plastered 1000 miles along Route 66. Take your picture beside of or on top of the giant jackrabbit! At Winslow see the “Standing on the Corner” statue dedicated to the Eagles song “Take it Easy”. Reaching Flagstaff you leave Highway 40 for the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is not actually on Route 66 but you couldn’t miss an opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World! After experiencing the grandeur of the Grand Canyon continue back to Route 66 and your overnight destination Williams. Williams is a beautiful mountainside town where soda fountains, quirky motels and diners line the mother road as it was back in the day. Williams is proud of their nightly (7:00 pm) gunfight with the world famous Cataract Creek Gang, known for their raucous, rambunctious behavior, as they shoot it out in the streets of Williams.

Overnight – Williams

Day 11 Williams to Las Vegas 216 miles

Ahead of you lays the longest unbroken portion of the “old road”. It runs from Seligman all the way to Topock, at the California border. Completely bypassed by I-40, it’s as unspoiled as any section of the road anywhere. The historic Route 66 runs North and curves back to the interstate in Kingman, where you can connect with Highway 93 to Las Vegas. The Route 66 detour is only about 15 miles / 24 kilometers longer, but it’s of course slower to drive than the interstate. The road passes through small towns like Peach Springs, Truxton and Hackberry in the Hulapai Indian reservation. As you approach Peach Springs, look to the north. There is a point where you can see all the way to the south rim of the Grand Canyon, which makes it closest approach to the highway in this area. Finish your day at Las Vegas, the neon oasis that never sleeps!

Overnight – Las Vegas

Day 12 Explore Las Vegas

The Las Vegas Strip, now an All American Road and National Scenic Byway, is a sparkling fantasyland at the heart of the city. Its unique blend of exciting entertainment, scenic beauty, and lavishly landscaped resorts take you to a wide variety of exotic realms from a medieval castle to a Parisian sidewalk cafe, a lakeside Italian village, or a pyramid in ancient Egypt. Once you arrive on the Strip, however, you might be surprised to find that it’s also an enjoyable walking environment. Whether it’s pirates plundering, fiery volcanoes spouting or tropical gardens luring the weary, the Las Vegas Strip offers a variety of fascinating visual experiences. Las Vegas is home to some of the most spectacular shopping in the world. The Forum Shops at Caesars is Las Vegas’ premier luxury retail destination offering top retail, dining, entertainment, location and thematic Roman ambiance. And with two distinct locations together featuring 290 designer and name-brand outlet stores, Las Vegas Premium Outlets® is a must stop for savvy shoppers.

Day 13 Las Vegas to Santa Monica / Los Angeles 290 miles

Finally, after a journey through the Mojave Desert today, you’ll reach the bright lights of Hollywood. It may be hard to believe that the area around Barstow was once covered by immense lakes ringed with Native American villages. When silver was discovered in Calico, the area became a mining center that included borax mining. Route 66 is Main Street through Barstow. Just off Main on First Street, you’ll discover the original Harvey House which gave rise to hospitality complexes all over the southwest.

Rainbow Basin about 15 miles north of Barstow is one of the lakebeds that existed between 10 and 30 million years ago. Calico Ghost Town is California’s official Silver Rush Ghost Town, preserving one of the few original mining camps in the Old West. One third of the town is original with the rest constructed in the ‘spirit’ of Calico’s Old West past. Today’s destination, Santa Monica is where the Mother Road meets the Pacific Ocean at the Pier. Many a dream has begun and ended on those beaches.

Overnight – Los Angeles

Day 14 Explore Los Angeles / Santa Monica

The sky’s the limit in Los Angeles. Take a go-behind-the scenes tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit the UCLA Armand Hammer Museum which presents the work of unprecedented artists, the California Heritage Museum, the Autry National Center Museum of the American West, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Be sure to visit the new Getty Center perched high on a hill atop the city. The view doesn’t get much better than that. Or if none of those things suit you, you can always go to Disneyland! But be sure to call in at The Outlets at Orange 40 minutes from Los Angeles Airport and less than four miles away from Disneyland, to bag some last-minute bargains!

Day 15 Depart Los Angeles

Make sure you take some time to relax in the California sunshine before you catch your plane Savor your journey to the bright lights of California all the way home.

Depart Los Angeles – 17:45 Arrive London Heathrow – 12:00 (Next Day) Journey time – 10 hours 20 minutes

Additional Stops for Route 66 motorcycle 21 night itinerary

Chicago, illinois – 1 extra night (2 in total).

There’s so much to see in this iconic city – famed Magnificent Mile, Michigan Avenue, Watertower Place, the Navy Pier, the Merchandise Mart, Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum to name but a few!

Springfield, Illinois – (Not to be confused with Springfield, Missouri already included) – 1 night

Explore the legacy of Abraham Lincoln.

St Louis, MO – 1 extra night (2 in total)

Try your hand at some science experiments, interact with butterflies or immerse yourself in a little arts and culture – it’s all in a day’s fun in St. Louis, Missouri. From sports and shopping – to tours and attractions.

Santa Fe, New Mexico – 2 nights

One of the original routings of Route 66 that was abandoned went through Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico which was established 13 years before Plymouth Colony was settled by the Massachusetts Company. The city began with a handful of European style dwellings constructed by Spanish settlers and soon became the seat of power for the Spanish Empire north of the Rio Grande River. It began to prosper when Don Pedro de Peralta settled in 1610, the same year that Hampton, Virginia, the oldest continuous city on the East Coast, was settled. Santa Fe served as the capital of the Spanish Kingdom of New Mexico, the Mexican province of Nuevo Mejico, and the capital of the New Mexico Territory.

Once you arrive, it will be challenging to decide which locations to visit. Everything is focused on the Plaza, the center of the historic downtown. We suggest visiting the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building still in use in America, constructed in 1610. It is now a southwestern history museum. The Museum of Fine Arts, next to the Palace, is older than the state itself. The extensive collection of southwestern art also includes paintings by Georgia O’Keefe, who called Santa Fe home for many years.

There are cultural museums of many other varieties, including the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and World Folk Art, with diverse works from artisans all over the world. If that’s not enough, there a huge list of art galleries, a myriad of restaurants and other interesting shops. Enjoy whatever you choose to do, there is more than enough to fill two days.

Grand Canyon – 1 extra night (2 in total)

Take a full day to explore the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. First stop should be the Visitor Centre located at the South Rim Village. Here you can pick up information on short hikes, special areas that you may wish to visit during the day and helicopter or airplane rides over the Grand Canyon. A visit to see the El Tovar Lodge if you are not staying there is a must, but we also suggest any of the scenic stops or even taking one of the guided coach tours that will explain the history and geology of the area. Another must is a visit to the IMAX Theatre located close to your hotel for a thrilling 3D show based around the Grand Canyon.

We strongly suggest you that spend one of your evenings and maybe even an early morning at the Grand Canyon Rim to experience the spectacular sunrise and sunset.

Los Angeles – 1 extra night (3 in total)

There’s so much to see and do in this amazing city… Take a tour of Los Angeles and Movie Stars Homes, the Hollywood Trolley Tour, the California Science Center, the Music Center, the Japanese American National Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Grand Avenue, the Simon Wiesenthal Center and more.  

Route 66 Motorcycle – 14 Night Itinerary:

Route 66 motorcycle – 21 night itinerary:, your route 66 motorcycle holiday includes.

• Scheduled flights
• UK & US Airport taxes
• Accommodation – 14 or 21 nights
• Eaglerider Class A Motorbike (model based on availability – models can be requested but not guaranteed – click for details)  to include 14 (or 21 day) rental, Unlimited Mileage, Tax, Environmental Surcharge
• Helmets provided for drivers and passengers
• Motorcycles come equipped with saddlebags for storage of personal items
• Client orientation which covers all aspects of safe motorcycle operation, the maintenance responsibilities, local and state laws.
• Exclusive travel documentation package including EZ-66 guide, personalised maps, itinerary and  driver directions along with all applicable tickets and vouchers

Additional Experiences

Our holidays are completely tailored to suit you. We would be happy to help you choose from a vast array of additional experiences that will enhance your North America holiday adventure.

These might include:

• Helicopter flights
• Sporting event tickets
• Horseback riding
• Restaurant reservations

There are many more, often quite unique to your chosen destination so please do ask.

Personalised Documentation

We prepare every travel pack individually. We want this to be the perfect travelling companion for your adventure and to offer you all the information you need. Your personally prepared ring-bound travel itinerary booklet is detailed and is designed to serve as a wonderful reminder of your experiences for years to come when you return.

Route 66 Motorcycle – Guided

Guided by a professional tour leader this Route 66 motorcycle tour is different to the self-guided itinerary but equally as amazing.

EXPLORE TOUR »

Route 66 Fly Drive

The classic way to experience Route 66, here you will follow the route that still passes through small towns offering a wonderful taste of a simpler time.

10 Reasons to do Route 66

This post was written by our client Emma Clarke who travelled with Complete North America on a Route 66 trip in January 2014.

READ MORE »

Route 66 Facts & FAQs

Over 30 questions regarding general Route 66 facts and Complete North America quirks and what you get booking through us!

Ultimate Route 66 Photo Gallery

This photo gallery includes over 100 photos taken by our clients and staff alike along their travels on the Mother Road!

The Mother Road – Day by Day Route 66 Blog

Our client Sue Wright has written a Route 66 blog detailing her day to day movements on her Route 66 holiday booked through Complete North America. You can read Part 2 here and Part 3 here

By the time Route 66 had become America’s Main Street, it was intended to be replaced entirely by the new Interstate highway system. Some of it has. But Route 66 refused to die so other places still have the wonderful old trading posts, filling stations, motels, tourist traps, and diners that have been there for decades. Preservation groups are working diligently to preserve what remains of the authenticity and icons of America’s golden age of road trips. As you travel you can enjoy the scents of new mown hay and hickory smoke drifting from the pit barbeque chimneys. Taste a real American hamburger and a rich creamy malt prepared they way they used to be. Experience Sky City where Native Americans live exactly like they did four hundred years ago. Pull over along a deserted stretch in the Mojave and listen to the hum of millions of wheels that have passed this way.

We invite you to take a once in a lifetime road trip and drive a real piece of American history, while staying in a collection of completely unique accommodations related to Route 66 lore. Savour and enjoy this truly authentic American experience.

Below is a video detailing what you will see in Illinois from Chicago to Springfield 

• Eaglerider Class A Motorbike (model based on availability – models can be requested but not guaranteed) to include 14 (or 21 day) rental, Unlimited Mileage, Tax, Environmental Surcharge

Motorcycle Hire USA & Canada

Check out all the vital information for our USA & Canada rental motorcycles below. Everything from classic Harley Davidson’s to Slingshots.

Click on the motorcycle you would like to complete the enquiry form & tell us where you’d like to ride.

Comprehensive support from start to finish, ride the dream, feel the wind in your face and live for adventure.

North America Motorcycles

HARLEY DAVIDSON ELECTRA GLIDE

HARLEY DAVIDSON STREET GLIDE

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE CHIEFTAIN

INDIAN ROADMASTER MOTORCYCLE

HARLEY DAVIDSON DYNA LOW RIDER

HARLEY DAVIDSON HERITAGE SOFTAIL

HARLEY DAVIDSON ROAD KING

HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE SCOUT

YAMAHA XV250

TRIUMPH BONNEVILE T100

HONDA GOLDWING GL 1800

TRIUMP TIGER EXPLORER 1200

TRIUMPH TIGER 800

BWM R1200GS

HARLEY DAVIDSON TRIKE

“Thank you and your team for your support with the logistics for our Route 66 Road Trip. 

We had an absolutely wonderful time and are so grateful for the opportunity.  The flights and car hire you arranged provided a seamless way of our getting on the road and seeing some amazing things – a trip of a lifetime.

Thank you again.  We are already planning another trip – this time to the Southern States and we shall not hesitate to use your services once more.”

The trip itself was beyond our wildest dreams , everything was absolutely superb. All the accommodation was first class and everywhere was truly original . It was great when we arrived at each hotel/motel which all had great facilities.

I just wanted to thank you and the Complete North America team for your work in arranging our Route 66 Holiday in the USA. I could not have asked for a more efficient and well-organised plan which worked perfectly for us. The itinerary booklet was and excellent baseline to work from and everything just clicked into place.

Make an Enquiry

Call 0115 9610590.

Your Route 66 Adventure Starts Here

A Route 66 adventure for everyone

Now offering our exceptional car caravans and a new bus tour. (This has replaced the "ride along" option.) Whether you want the thrill of driving or want to sit back and relax, we have the right option for you.

Guided Route 66 Car Caravans

Bring your own vehicle (or rent one) and follow your tour guide in a caravan of no more than 15 cars.

Route 66 Car Caravan

Chicago to Los Angeles

Guided Route 66 Bus Tours

Join fellow travelers on a comfortable motorcoach for a hassle-free adventure

Route 66 Bus Tour

Chicago-Las Vegas-LA

Two Lane America has created a masterpiece road trip on the mother road, Route 66. My wife and I traveled in June 2019 from South Florida to discovered how important Route 66 was and still is to this wonderful country

Our #1 bucket list trip was absolutely perfect, thanks to Austin Coop. The planning and research can be a bit overwhelming. With Two Lane America you can relax and just enjoy the trip as everything has been planned for you.

Charlayne H.

We were strangers from Ohio, Wisconsin, Virginia, Arkansas, California, and Holland, soon to become friends as we caravaned in our own vehicles from Chicago to Santa Monica on much of old Route 66 with 2LaneAmerica. We worried about nothing except buying gas or incidentals.

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Reuthers Route 66 Dream / USA Guided Motorcycle Tour

A real "Dream Tour" is our 15-day Route 66 Guided motorcycle tour, where you will be cruising on and along the legendary mother road Route 66. This road trip combines the best parts of Route 66 with popular highlights along the route. Discover the great freedom on the endless highways of the American west in the saddle of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Visit fascinating natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley with its bizarre rock formations, and the Petrified Forest. During the Route 66 motorcycle tour, cozy biker bars and owner-managed restaurants with delicious American specialties await you. Get to know the culture of the Native Americans for one night at a Navajo reservation, and try your luck at one of the casinos in the glittering metropolis of Las Vegas. This Route 66 Guided motorcycle tour by Reuthers fulfills all your dreams! ...get your kicks on Route 66 - from east to west = the historical direction!

Day 1: Chicago

Welcome to Chicago. After the individual arrivals and the transfer from the airport to the hotel we will start off with a welcome drink and dinner and set the mood for our shared motorcycle tour.

Day 2: Chicago > Springfield, IL

Early in the morning we will pick up our Harley-Davidson motorcycles at the rental station and after a few safety tips, our Route 66 adventure starts. Around midday we will reach Wilmington with the Gemini Giant, a large fiberglass figure of the 1960's era. After an obligatory stop at the Dixie Truckers Home, we will end our first day in Spingfield/Illinois which was for many years the chosen home city of Abraham Lincoln, the president of the United States during the civil war.

Day 3: Springfield, IL > St. Louis

Today we want to dedicate our day to the "Gateway to the West": the pioneer town St. Louis. The town's landmark is the more than 190 m high steel Gateway Arch. Inside, we will take trams to an observation platform to the top of the highest monument of the nation. The afternoon in St. Louis is free to your disposal, for dinner we will meet in downtown Lakelade's Landing.

Day 4: St. Louis > Springfield, MO

We deliberately want to do without the unnecessary challenges of confusing streets in the city, bad road conditions and misleading signs to the "Mother Road". We will travel some distances of the tour on the Route 66 and others on the Interstate. Today's highlight and absolute must are the Meramec Caverns. The famous limestone caves have been a tourist classic since the beginning of the Route 66 and served the outlaw Jesse James as a welcome hiding place from his pursuers.

Day 5: Springfield, MO > Oklahoma City

The motto of the day today is: ride, ride and ride namely through three states: Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma. The latter is known through countless thunderstorms, the particularly striking red earth and for all Route 66 fans the probably longest continuous route on the Highway 66.

Day 6: Oklahoma City > Amarillo

We will start our day with a real photo highlight: A bridge with 38(!) huge arches spanning the Canadian River. And the Route 66 museum in Clinton that we will visit is a memorial that is different to all others: each room is dedicated to a decade of the "Main Street of America". A further highlight on our tour is the next stop and overnight stay at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo.

Day 7: Amarillo > Santa Fe

We continue our adventure tour on the Route 66 to the legendary Cadillac Ranch. As a reminder of the golden days of the Route 66 ten Cadillac's are buried vertically into the ground. Next stop is Adrian, the geo-mathematical center of the old Route 66. This is as important as crossing the equator. Brunch at Russell's Travel Center with its world class Car Museum rounds up the morning. At the end of our eventful day, we will spend the night in historic Santa Fe.

Day 8: Santa Fe

Today is free to relax in downtown Santa Fe, buying souvenirs and enjoying cafe's and restaurants. A must to see is the St. Francis Cathedral next to the Plaza.

Day 9: Santa Fe > Gallup

This morning we want to check out the original film location of Maggie's Diner from the cult movie "Wild Hogs" with John Travolta in Madrid. After taking a group picture our tour takes us past Mesas, cottonwood trees and continues on the gentle winding road to Laguna Pueblo where the Spaniards built the mission church, which we will visit. Just in time for dinner, we will reach the hotel El Rancho in Gallup after riding several more beautiful miles through Indian Territory. The heydays are gone, but there once was a time when famous Hollywood stars met up here. Ronald Reagan slept in room 103; Humphrey Bogart in room 213, Doris Day in room 109, Kirk Douglas stayed in 105, Gregory Peck in 111. The Marx brothers resided in room 118, John Wayne recovered in room 100 after a long days ride and for Hermann the German room 101 is regularly reserved for the night.

Day 10: Gallup > Chinle

After a hearty breakfast in the "El Rancho" we will drive the former Route 666 to the North, straight through Navajo country. After some 95 appealing miles, we will arrive after passing through Shiprock and Teec Nos Pos to the Four Corners, the single point in the United States, where the boundaries of four states come together: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona. Another highlight on this motorcycle tour is Monument Valley. We will spend the night appropriately in the Navajo reservation near the Canyon de Chelly in Chinle.

Day 11: Chinle > Flagstaff

Starting off in Chinle, the first stage leads us to the Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Desert. The more interesting of the two natural wonders is the Petrified Forest, which was formed millions of years ago by a freak of nature. The northern part of the park, the Painted Desert, consists of sedimentary rocks that change color depending on the exposure to the sun going from red to orange to purple. On our journey towards the west ("Go West", is our phrase of the day!), we will pass the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook and cruise on to Winslow, Arizona to Winslow Corner, known from the song by the Eagles. Today's destination is Flagstaff which is located between the two Indian reservations of the Navajo and Hopi on the legendary Route 66. We will end the evening at the Museum Club that the locals call "The Zoo" and which is probably the best dance club between Oklahoma City and Los Angeles.

Day 12: Flagstaff > Seligman

Today's highlight is the gigantic Grand Canyon - if you wish, enjoy a spectacular helicopter flight. After lunch we will cruise over Williams to Seligman. Here the long loop of the old Route 66 begins right up to the Californian border. Even the very old street layout is navigable along this beautiful section. Arriving in Seligman, we will first visit the founder of the "Historic Route 66 Association" at the Route 66 Visitors Center. We will certainly have the opportunity to meet the "Guardian Angel", Angel Delgadillo and perhaps somebody might be in the mood to receive one of his famous barber shaves. By the way, in his barber shop, you can find many Route 66 souvenirs - a true paradise for bargain hunters. In the evening we will set up our sleeping quarters at a typical Route 66 motel in order to get to know something very simple and rustic.

Day 13: Seligman > Las Vegas

We will have breakfast today at Westside Lilo's Cafe, an original 66 restaurant owned by an expatriate German, who ensures that all the guests in Seligman are well fed. Through Kingman we continue on to Las Vegas / Nevada and directly on to the Las Vegas Boulevard. The accommodation is booked in the legendary The Mirage which is an ideal starting point for a stroll right on the Strip. Do whatever your heart desires: dine in the Hard Rock Cafe, visit one of the many world-class shows or dive into the nightlife of the city, the afternoon and evening are of course at your disposal.

Day 14: Las Vegas > Barstow

After a long night, we will start today our "Desert Tour". We will roll past exclusive hotels on the last leg of the Las Vegas Boulevard, and then head off to our day trip in the direction of Barstow. From Needles, California we head back to our Route 66, many refer to this as being the most beautiful part of the route. Other stops are the Sahara Oasis and Roy's Cafe in Amboy. Before we arrive in Barstow we will turn a few miles north - if time allows it - to visit an old silver mine in the Mojave Desert in the ghost town of Calico. In the still inhabited and lovingly renovated original Western town over a thousand adventurers once sought their fortune. If you want to you can pick up your very own personal Western photo. A beautiful day and a beautiful trip ends in Barstow. By the way in 1886, the town was named after the president of the Santa Fe railroad company. Barstow also managed to end up in the refrain of the Route 66 classic "Get your kicks".

Day 15: Barstow > Santa Monica

The last day "on the road" starts today. From Barstow we will cruise the last miles on the Route 66 to Victorville and then take the Interstate straight to Los Angeles. After we have dropped off our Harley-Davidson motorcycles at the rental station, we will be transferred to Santa Monica Boulevard. Our Route 66 motorcycle tour ends here at the Pier of Santa Monica, where we will spend our last night near the promenade. During our final dinner we will reminisce about our dream journey.

Learn more about this Guided Motorcycle Tour:

What's included - pricing - dates.

What's included: * The Original Tour - developed and organised by Reuthers * Reuthers Tour Guide - trained and multilingual * Rental Motorcycle for the Tour including third party and comprehensive insurance * Reuthers POMZEC© (Peace Of Mind Zero Excess Coverage) for the rental vehicle * 15x Accommodation Middleclass Hotels/Motels in shared Double Room * Reuthers Partner Vacation Program© (Escort Vehicle for Companions) * Luggage Transportation during the Tour * Secured Payment Certificate (Sicherungsschein) * Reuthers Tour Book with Itineraries and Tips * Reuthers Travel Lecture (in English) * Reuthers Welcome Drink * Welcome Dinner in Restaurant * Farewell Dinner in Restaurant * Fuel for the Tour * Transfers Airport > Hotel > Rental Station > Hotel > Airport * Entrance and Parking Fees * Reuthers Rewards"> Reuthers Rewards Best Value - NO Hidden Costs > Why Reuthers ?

Pricing: Guided: Rider own Motorcycle = USD 4795 Guided: Rider Rental Motorcycle = USD 7995 Guided: Passenger Motorcycle = USD 4495 Guided: Passenger Escort Vehicle = USD 4615 Twin Room extra charge (2 separate beds instead of 1 common bed) = USD 235 Single Room extra charge (instead of shared Double Room) = USD 835

Optional Bookings: Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 95 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 105 Additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = USD 185 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 195 Additional Accommodation after the tour in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 195 Additional Accommodation after the tour in Single Room = USD 375 Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 315 Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 345 Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = USD 395 Chicago Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Double Room (1 common bed) = USD 315 Chicago Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in shared Twin Room (2 separate beds) = USD 345 Chicago Best Of - Sightseeing on Day 1 including additional Accommodation prior tour start in Single Room = USD 395 Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight = USD 245

All pricing payable in US Dollar . 3% Early Bird Discount (booking more than 12 months prior tour start) 2% Golden Ager Discount (age at least 60 years prior tour start) 10% Group Discount (from 8 registrations made within one week, one common Payment of Balance) 2% Harley Owners Group Discount 2% BMW Motorcycle Owners Club Discount 2% Indian Motorcycle Riders Group Discount 2% Riders Association of Triumph Discount Please note: The Total Discount for all applicable Discounts is a maximum of 10%.

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Route 66 Original

Usa self-guided motorcycle tour.

THE MOST FAMOUS ROAD TRIP IN THE WORLD A journey of discovery and nostalgia, an opportunity to take the back roads into a bygone era and discover how America travelled in the 20th century before the Interstate Highways. We’ve been sending riders down Route 66 longer than just about anyone and our Route 66 tour is probably the most famous motorcycle tour in the World. Experience the flair and charm of the old route, from the start in Chicago, Illinois all the way to the end in Santa Monica, California. Stop at museums and unique attractions, and get a great insight into the people and history of the USA. Visit wonderful old trading post filling stations, motels, and diners along the scenic “Mother Road”. Take your time and enjoy the scents of new mown hay and savour the taste of smoked hickory barbecue. Travel through ever-changing landscapes of small town America, the never-ending expanse of the Texas panhandle, the desolation of the Mojave Desert and majestic Grand Canyon National park. Take on the challenge of finding your way across America on your motorcycle, through its diverse and colourful scenery. Discover a side of America many travellers never see or experience on this iconic and celebrated route through America’s heartland.

All self-guided tours include a GPS unit and personal daily GPX files

— Grand Canyon — Chicago: Adams Street Route 66 start, Art Institute, Willis Tower, the blues! — Mojave Desert — Santa Fe, New Mexico – oldest state capital in USA — Petrified Forest National Park and Painted Desert — Crossing the Mississippi River — Seligman, Kingman and Oatman historic towns — Santa Monica Pier- the end of the Road — Small town America — Los Angeles

Book with confidence. Our £££ prices are guaranteed!

Arrive Chicago

Not enough days available for the full tour? Why not do Route 66 Hemi from Albuquerque to Los Angeles in just 9 days! See guided itinerary and ask us for the self-guided price.

On arrival at O’Hare Airport, take the hotel shuttle to your hotel. After check in, take in the entertainment, shops and bars nearby, and maybe check out your motorcycle. If you want to discover the “Windy City” of Chicago with all it has to offer, we suggest you arrive a day early and explore at leisure:

Famous blues clubs, Navy Pier, Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), fine dining restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. Take a stroll to the starting point of Historic Route 66 at East Adams St and South Michigan Ave.

Chicago – Springfield, IL

(200 miles)

After breakfast, make your way to the motorcycle pick up and retrieve your ride for your Route 66 Original self-guided motorcycle tour. Next thing you know you’re riding down Historic Route 66 through the cities, small towns and farmlands of Illinois. Follow the Pontiac Trail, as Route 66 used to be known here, to the state capital of Springfield.

Springfield – Rolla, MO

(220 miles)

Today you ride through the picturesque scenery of small town mid-America into the rolling hills of the Ozarks. Your morning begins by meandering through picturesque farming towns and countryside until you arrive at the Mississippi river, the border between Illinois and Missouri. Stop here for the Chain of Rocks Bridge which became a part of original Route 66 in 1936. After lunch, stop at the Missouri Route 66 State Park to learn more about the history of the route in the state. Afterwards, enjoy the hills and valleys twisting through the Ozarks to Jesse James’ hideout at Meramec Caverns. Finally arrive in Rolla for dinner and a good night’s sleep, now you’re only 24 hours from Tulsa!

Rolla – Tulsa, OK

(310 miles)

This morning the road twists, dips, and climbs through dense forests of oak, elm, hickory and redbud. Soon the hills, valleys and twisty roads gradually fade away as you ride through (another) Springfield, Joplin and Carthage until you reach Kansas Be sure to stop in either Galena or Baxter springs, considering there’s just under 14 miles of Route 66 in Kansas. Check out the old train depot in Galena, or the Route 66 welcome centre in Baxter Springs. Then you’ll ride into the gentle bends and hills of Eastern Oklahoma, and finally Tulsa. Enjoy a good night’s rest, it’s been a long but enjoyable day on your Route 66 self-guided motorcycle tour.

Tulsa – Weatherford, OK

(190 miles)

Oklahoma has more miles of Route 66 than any other state, and in better condition. The majority of the day is spent riding the “Old 66” through pasture and prairie. Stop at the Route 66 Interpretive Centre in Chandler, the Round Barn in Arcadia, Seba Station Motorcycle Museum in Warwick, and ride the longest remaining stretch of the original alignments of the route. Further west you’ll ride through El Reno, over the mile-long pony truss bridge near Hydro and end up at your hotel in the ranching and college town of Weatherford.

Weatherford – Amarillo, TX

Start today at the Route 66 museum in Clinton, where you can learn more about the route and its importance in American history, and do a bit of souvenir shopping. Then it’s back on the road, passing over the great plains, through vast cattle ranches and small farming towns as you enter the Texas panhandle. Stop at the iconic art-deco U-Drop Inn in Shamrock, featured in the film “Cars” as Ramone’s Body Shop. Then you’re off across the plains for a well-deserved steak at the Big Texas Steak Ranch in Amarillo. The challenge here is to eat, or attempt to eat, the 72-oz (2 kg) steak dinner in an hour or less. If so it’s free. Are you courageous or crazy enough to try?!

Amarillo – Santa Fe, NM

(300 miles)

First stop, the Cadillac Ranch, an ever-changing art exhibit started in 1974 by a group of eccentric artists called the “Ant farm”. Be sure to bring a can of spray paint, and let your inner hoodlum out and leave your mark on one of the cars (encouraged by the artists).  Then it’s off to Adrian, home of the Midpoint Café and your halfway point. After stopping for a coffee and the best pie on the route, you’ll leave the great plains and head into the natural splendour of the southwest. Riding through the wide open spaces of the high chaparral deserts and prairie into the Rocky Mountains. On your way keep an eye out for Pronghorn Antelope, mule deer and other wildlife. Follow the old Santa Fe cattle drive trail through Pecos National Historic Park and into beautiful Santa Fe, where you will spend the next two nights of your Route 66 self-guided motorcycle tour.

Today is a day of rest and relaxation in one of the oldest and the highest, (2194 m) state capitals in the USA. Explore Santa Fe’s numerous art galleries, speciality shops and museums, all within easy walking distance of our hotel. Or roam around the beautiful downtown plaza’s unique combination of Native American and Spanish colonial architecture. If you want a gentle ride, we recommend the short visit to Taos. Lots of bends to ride as you take the valley road there and the alpine forest road back. Taos is famous as an artist colony and some beautiful art and native American crafts awaiting you. Be sure to sample the local restaurants selection of New Mexican cuisine, a fusion of Mexican and Native American foods.

Santa Fe – Gallup, NM

Time to get back on the road and out into the deserts of the southwest. Ride down into the Rio Grande valley to your first stop for lunch in Old Town Albuquerque. Then head west alongside the Navajo sandstone mesas, through the splendour of New Mexico’s natural beauty, ending the day in the old railroad town and Native American stronghold of Gallup. Be sure to stop by the historic El Rancho hotel for dinner and a look around the property.

Gallup – Williams, AZ

(240 miles)

Today on your Route 66 self-guided motorcycle tour you head into Arizona’s spectacular deserts. The first stop is Painted Desert & Petrified Forest National Park, take your time riding through the park, stopping to take in its natural geologic multi-coloured hues and colours. Afterwards it’s a short ride into Holbrook to see the Wigwam Motel’s tepee-shaped rooms. Then it’s time for lunch and some time to “Take it Easy” with the Eagles, and “standin’ on the corner” in Winslow, Arizona.  Finally, continuing onward to your hotel in the quaint town of Williams, last Route 66 town by-passed by interstate 40 and gateway to the Grand Canyon.

(ride out, 120 miles )

Today is Grand Canyon day! You can take the train from Williams or ride the 55 miles to the canyon’s south rim. Here you’ll have time to explore the national park’s numerous viewpoints and attractions, and be sure to go to Desert view on the Eastern edge of the park for the best views from the stone tower. We recommend a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view and to appreciate just how massive it really is. Take a sunset ride back to your hotel. This will be a day you’ll always remember!

Williams – Needles, CA

(250 miles)

Start the day by taking a short ride through the town of Ash Fork, down Crookton Road into the small town of Seligman for the best breakfast on the route at Lilo’s Westside Café. Be sure to give yourself some time for shopping at its many Route 66 shops. Afterwards, make your way to Hackberry and Kingman, the self-described ‘Capital of Route 66’, for lunch. Then comes what we like to call the ‘curviest’ part of the Route, Stigraves Pass via the Oatman Highway, a twisting & turning roller-coaster ride over the Black Mountains. Stop in Oatman to see one of the few remaining authentic old west gold mining towns. Bring some carrots or buy some alfalfa cubes from one of the local shops to feed the local burros, left behind when the miners abandoned their claims.  Get cooled off before descending into the scorching heat of the Colorado river’s Mohave valley and Needles, California.

Needles – Victorville, CA

(175 miles)

You start the day by riding around the Spirit Mountains into the dramatic & desolate hot Mojave Desert. Take a break in the oasis in Fenner before making your way to Amboy, located in the middle of nowhere, to check out Roy’s Motel and Café. Continue on to a lunch stop in Barstow and then onward to see Elmer’s Bottle Tree ranch. After a hot day riding through the desert your hotel’s refreshing pool beckons you to take a cool dip and relax before your last day of riding tomorrow.

Victorville – Los Angeles

(115 miles )

Your big adventure comes to an end today with your ride to Los Angeles. Much of the road has been lost, but the end of the Mother Road, Santa Monica Pier, is worth the wait. Park your motorcycle, have some lunch on the pier, and then dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean, this really is journey’s end! Take your time going to the end marker plaque at Ocean Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, and then wander through downtown Santa Monica. All that remains, the ride to the motorcycle drop-off and saying goodbye to your bike for the past two weeks. Get to your hotel and enjoy a nice celebratory dinner and drinks and some well-earned rest, You made it all the way on your Route 66 self-guided motorcycle tour!

Depart Los Angeles

Time to pack your bags and head home, filled with the experiences and memories. We hope to see you back for another great tour. This is end of the road – for now!

Total Distance c. 2700 miles

Dates & prices, per person prices, motorcycle surcharges:.

Band A add £zero per bike Band B add £355 per bike Band C POA per trike

Surcharges may also apply to all above prices for public holidays, events and conventions.

Don’t forget to book tour optional activities.. .

Grand Canyon 45 minute spirit helicopter ride: ‘Breathtaking’, ‘an absolute must do’ and ‘definitely worth the money’ say our customers who have experienced this optional, but exceptional, 45-50 minute flight. Your Canyon Spirit tour departs from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Upon reaching the edge of the canyon, the South Rim gently drops away. The North Rim and eastern end of the canyon come into view. This is one of the most spectacular views in the entire canyon! Price: £290 per person.

Harley-Davidson Museum: A fabulous interactive showcase of more than 100 years of Harley-Davidson’s rich motorcycle history. Price: £31 per person.

Pre-bookable extras

What's included & what's not.

Optional pre-bookable extras: • Flights (we are an ATOL bonded, UK company) • Specialist Travel insurance for motorcyclists – www.bikerstravelinsurance.co.uk • Optional CDW (VIP) & liability (SLI) motorcycle insurances • Roadside assistance • Motorcycle model guarantee • TriGlide trike • Other makes and models of motorcycle • Helmets and riding gear • Car/van hire • Excursions/activities • UK airport hotel and parking • Pre and post-tour accommodation and tours • Pre and post-tour motorcycle hire • Hotel/dealer transfers • US Airport/hotels transfer • Additional activities • Custom/private tours

Our Accommodation

Chicago, Crowne Plaza O’Hare Springfield, State House Inn Rolla, Best Western Coachlight Inn Tulsa, Best Western Plus Downtown Weatherford, Best Western Plus Amarillo, Holiday Inn Amarillo East Santa Fe, Courtyard by Marriott (2 nts) Gallup, Best Western Plus Gallup Inn & Suites Williams, Grand Canyon Railway Hotel (2 nts) Needles, Best Western Colorado River Inn Victorville, Comfort Suites Los Angeles, Holiday Inn LAX

Our Motorcycles

For our selection of motorcycles please see our  USA Motorcycle Rentals  page.

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Orange & Black, 16 High Street, Overton, Hampshire. RG25 3HA England

Please call us on 01256 771770 or email us using the form below:

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The "Starting at" or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include International airfare; additional fees/charges are not included. If a price is crossed out, the new price includes a limited time promotional offer(s) – please review current promotions or deals for additional information. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Cosmos).

• Route 66 Motorcycle (guided), 15 days
• Route 66 Motorcycle (self-guide), 15 days
• Route 66 Motorcycle Small Group Tour (guided), 17 days
• Half of Route 66 - 8 Days, East
• Half of Route 66 - 9 Days, West
• Route 66 + Wild West Motorcycle, 16 days
• Route 66 + Wild West Motorcycle, 9 days
• Route 66 + Wild West Motorcycle, 8 days
• Minibus tour on Route 66 (small group)
• Bus tour on Route 66
• Route 66 by car (11-20+ day holidays)
• USA coast to coast via Route 66
• Easy Rider Self-Guide Tour
• Accommodation on Route 66
• Motorcycle rental
• Route 66 Magazine
• Video gallery
• The Fascinating Journey on Route 66: An Iconic American Road Trip
• The Fun of Riding Route 66 - A Journey of Adventure and Nostalgia

Route 66 tours: travel the most famous highway of the world! Get your kicks of 2,448 miles (by motorcycle, car, bus) from Chicago to LA...guided or self-guide...

Welcome to historic route 66: drive the "the mother road".

enjoyed going to the diners and soaking up the atmosphere of the Mother Road

Route 66 standard tours

15 day/14 night itinerary, both self-guide and fully guided versions, german, french, italian and spanish.

Route 66 Small Group Tour

17 day/16 night itinerary, small group and route 66.

Route 66 half-way tour: East (8 days)

Designed to ride from the illinois.

Route 66 half-way tour: West (9 days)

Original route tour offers, self-guide and fully guided versions.

Route 66 + the best natural wonders of the WEST (8 beautiful days)

Los angeles and las vegas.

Experience the Wild West(16 days)

Deserts, canyons, mountains, unforgettable sights, join a guided version.

Travel Route 66 in a minivan/minibus

Two nights in las vegas included.

Rent a Harley

Smaller sections of the mother road.

Rent a convertible car on Route 66!

Start in new york, #1 pacific highway drive.

Route 66 bus tours

Americans traveled from the 1920s through the 1960s, visit many of the route 66 museums.

We do organize custom tours

Have you got your own dates.

Maps of Route 66

Chicago to los angeles, download a route 66 app.

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Travel Guide to Historic Route 66: The Mother Road

Route 66 was one of the United States' first continuous stretches of paved highway, and served as a major path for those who migrated to the West.

"The Mother Road" was established on November 11, 1926, and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles (3,940 kilometers) from Chicago to Los Angeles. It became the shortest, year-round route between the Midwest and the Pacific Coast, and was also known as " The Main Street of America " and the " Will Rogers Highway ". On that date, only 800 miles of Route 66 were paved, the rest being graded dirt, gravel, bricks, or planks of wood. It took 11 more years before the entire road would be paved.

From its beginning in Chicago, Route 66 headed southwest through Illinois and Missouri, and a small section of southeast Kansas.

From there it turned in a more westward direction through Oklahoma and Texas, with the final stretches in New Mexico and Arizona before its termination point in Los Angeles.

During the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s, the diagonal course of the Route 66 was the primary route for migrating farm workers from the Midwest to California. The migration continued during World War II due to job availability in California.

It linked small, rural towns to larger cities, and markets. The fact that it covered mainly flat areas and featured moderate year-round weather made it an attractive route for traverlers, and truckers. During this time, it also became one of the key routes for moving military equipment across the country.

Due to the efforts of the U.S. Highway 66 Association, Route 66 became the first highway to be completely paved, in 1938. In the 1950s, Route 66 became the main highway for vacationers heading to Los Angeles. The traffic along Route 66 led to the opening of many "mom and pop" restaurants, motels, and service stations along the route to satisfy the needs of traveling motorists.

Alignments of the road changed often over the years, as improved sections of highway were constructed. In the early years many sections connected only one small town to the next, and had no official federal route number. Over time the route was formalized as a Federal Highway numbered as "U.S. 66".

We've had the pleasure of driving in all eight states along Route 66, The Main Street of America !

Included on this website are photographs, personal experiences, commentary and travel recommendations on the various segments of the Mother Road. We hope that this site will help with the planning of your next vacation or holiday, and get Route 66 checked off your bucket list of destinations in 2024!

The Lore of Route 66: The Main Street of America

Route 66 became one of the most famous roads in the United States, outdistancing others such as the Lincoln Highway.

It is popular lore in movies, songs, books like "The Grapes of Wrath", and TV shows.

The legendary highway was known far and wide for its variety of "mom and pop" motels, neon lights, drive-ins, quirky roadside attractions, flat tires, cars with no air conditioning, dangerous curves, steep hills, and narrow lanes.

Today, there are more than 250 buildings, bridges, road alignments and other sites along Route 66 that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The movie "Easy Rider" was filmed at several locations along Route 66. The move "Thelma and Louise" also featured Route 66 references and scenes.

The popularity stuck, and continues to grow today! So ... get out and explore Historic U.S. Route 66!

Route 66 Map from Chicago to Santa Monica

Road Trip Travel Guides for Various States Along Route 66

Planning a road trip on Route 66 in 2024 or for the Centennial in 2026? Here are the travel guides and reviews by state...

List of Route 66 Mileage by State (1926 Alignment)

The demise of route 66.

Route 66 underwent many improvements and realignments during its lifetime.

The passage of the Federal Highway Act of 1956 sounded the death knell for the old road, and gradually segments were replaced with new, safer and faster superhighways.

Its final demise was the completion of the Interstate Highway System. The last town by-passed by the Interstate system was Williams , Arizona, on October 13, 1984.

Subsequently, U.S. Route 66 was officially removed from the United States Highway System on June 27, 1985.

Route 66 was replaced by five Interstates: I-55 southbound from Chicago, I-44 across Missouri and Oklahoma, I-40 in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona, I-15 and finally I-10 into Los Angeles.

Route 66 Today

Today, in 2024, several states recognize the historical significance of the road, and have it marked with "66" in the state highway number. "Historic Route 66 Associations" are active in several states.

The road is also a major tourist attraction, so many states openly market attractions and lodging along the old route.

The old road still traverses dozens of small towns with vintage gas stations, quirky tourist attractions, diners, "Mop & Pop" motels, historic sites & museums, stunning vistas, and gift shops.

Touring Route 66 by Auto, Bus, or RV

Different people choose different modes of transportation to tour the Mother Road. While some elect guided bus tours, or drive their own vehicles, others seek new destinations in their RV or motor home.

And for those that don't own an RV yet, companies like Cruise America, El Monte RV Rentals, Road Bear RV Rentals, and Camping World offer a variety of RV sizes and rental plans.

Touring Route 66 by Motorcycle

Get your motor running! Get out on the highway!

Many travelers on Route 66 rent motorcycles to seek new open-air adventures on their USA road trip!

A variety of motorcycle rental plans are available, such as those from Eaglerider Motorcycle Rentals.

Out West, your motorcycle can be picked up at a number of rental locations in Nevada, California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. If you are starting your Route 66 trip further north, motorcycle pickup locations in Illinois are available.

Model options are plentiful, and cycles from manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson and Indian are available. Trikes can also be rented.

If you don't want to ride independently, choose from one of many guided motorcycle tours. Self-drive tours often include rental of the motorcycle, hotel reservations and detailed tour route information.

Some companies offer one-way rentals, hotel pickups, luggage storage, helmets and other amenities.

Route 66: The Song

The song "Get Your Kicks on Route 66" was composed by songwriter Bobby Troup in 1946.

It was first recorded by Nat King Cole, and sung by other singers over the years including Chuck Berry, Perry Como, and the Rolling Stones.

If you ever plan to motor west, travel my way, take the highway that is best. Get your kicks on Route sixty-six. It winds from Chicago to LA, more than two thousand miles all the way. Get your kicks on Route sixty-six. Now you go through Saint Looey Joplin, Missouri, and Oklahoma City is mighty pretty. You see Amarillo, Gallup, New Mexico, Flagstaff, Arizona. Don't forget Winona, Kingman, Barstow, San Bernardino. Won't you get hip to this timely tip: when you make that California trip Get your kicks on Route sixty-six.

For the Route 66 TV series on CBS, the "Route 66 Theme" song was written by Nelson Riddle.

Route 66: The TV Show

A popular television show during the early 1960s bore the road's name: "Route 66". Starring George Maharis as Buz, and Martin Milner as Tod, the two young adventurers drove the road in their Chevrolet Corvette for 116 episodes.

Despite the name of the series, most episodes did NOT take place on the historic road, but in 25 different U.S. states. The show was filmed mostly on location, and became known for its cinematography. A long list of well-known actors and actresses appeared on the series.

The show ran from October, 1960, through March, 1964, and created a huge following.

The interest in the show continues today by "Baby Boomers" who remember the original showings, and new generations of viewers fascinated by the show who watch it on DVD.

Chicago: The Route Begins

The beginning point for a Route 66 road trip could be either Chicago or Los Angeles, depending on the direction of the trip. Most travelers seem to start their journey on Route 66 in Chicago, and head westbound, the direction taken by those leaving the Dust Bowl and those seeking a new life in the West. That is the direction we take on this website.

Illinois was the first of the eight states through which Route 66 passed to have its segment of U.S. 66 paved, at a time when much of the route across the country was still a gravel or dirt road. Illinois Route 66 took over Illinois State Highway 4, a pre-existing, fully paved two-lane road between Chicago and St. Louis.

The beginning point of Route 66 in Chicago has changed over the years. Today, the starting point is at East Adams Street at South Michigan Avenue, and the end point is at East Jackson at South Michigan. One way streets in the area can be difficult to navigate for first-time Route 66 visitors!

While in Chicago, many Route 66 travelers seek out Grant Park, the Willis Tower, Chicago Architecture River Cruise, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science & Industry, the Magnificent Mile, Lincoln Park Zoo and the lakeshore shopping areas.

Santa Monica: The End of the Trail

The original terminus of U.S. Route 66 was at 7th and Broadway in downtown Los Angeles. However, over the years, and decades, Route 66 has had several “official” and “unofficial" ending points.

The route was later extended to the intersection of Lincoln and Olympic boulevards in Santa Monica, about one mile from the Pacific Ocean. This is often referred to as the official ending point of Route 66.

Route 66 Centennial: 1926-2026

Route 66 was one of the United State's first continuous stretches of paved highway, and served as a major path for those who migrated west.

"The Mother Road" was commissioned on November 11, 1926, and ultimately stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles.

In 2026, the nation will be celebrating the Route 66 Centennial ... 100 years of the Mother Road serving the traveling public! Many states and organizations are planning special events and tours to highlight the Centennial.

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The Ultimate Route 66 Road Trip

From flashy neon to roadside kitsch, here’s everything you need to know about the Mother Road, complete with interactive maps.

Last updated October 11, 2021

Route 66 is the quintessential embodiment of the road and all its greatest promises: freedom and serendipity, kitsch and living history, and a case study of the very particular way Americans have moved and multiplied. You can certainly travel eastward on Route 66 (in fact, we highly recommend it), but there’s no denying the symbolic strength of at least one westward journey along its patchwork of asphalt.

Everything you need to know about Route 66

Route 66 map.

• Our favorite attractions

Route 66 history

Order Roadtrippers' Route 66 book

Our brand new Route 66 book will help you find every classic, quirky, and fun stop along the Mother Road.

Ready to get started? Don’t leave home without your trusty Route 66 map . It’s a good idea to bring a paper map of Route 66 as back-up in case you don’t have cell reception. But the Roadtrippers trip planner is going to be your best friend along the journey, with pre-made maps and guides ready to help make your trip a success.

Route 66 attractions

Here’s some of our favorite Route 66 attractions. Make sure you don’t miss them on your next trip down the Mother Road.

Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch National Park is so much more than just the iconic arch. There’s also a free museum with exhibits detailing America’s westward expansion and the building of the Gateway Arch, which is a good place to start if you’re waiting for your ride to the top (or if you’re scared of heights but still want the arch experience). A trip to the top of the Eero Saarinen-designed monument—the world’s tallest arch and the tallest man-made monument in the U.S.—offers great views of both sides of the Mississippi.

Blue Whale of Catoosa

The Blue Whale of Cartoosa is one of the most popular roadside attractions along Route 66. It was built by Hugh Davis in the early 1970s as a surprise anniversary gift for his wife Zelta, who loved whales and collected whale figurines. Take time to wander around the remnants of this famed roadside wonder, and have a snack at one of the picnic tables.

Cadillac Ranch

Ten Cadillacs stand along Interstate 40 , buried in the dirt at the same angles as the Great Pyramids of Giza. Visitors are encouraged to bring a can of spray paint and add their own mark to this unique roadside art installation. Spray painting the Cadillacs is a rite of passage for any true roadtripper, and the installation has gone through quite a few makeovers throughout the years. 

Oatman, Arizona

You’d be hard-pressed to find a ghost town more real—or more alive—than Oatman . Located at the edge of Arizona on Route 66 and perched 2,700 feet above sea level in the Black Mountains, Oatman is a strange place run by wild burros.

Santa Monica Pier

Whether you call it the starting or ending point of the Mother Road, the Santa Monica Pier is the perfect spot to stretch your legs or snap photos of the ocean before embarking on a 2,000-mile trip east. Sure it’s touristy, but that shouldn’t stop you from taking a ride on the 1922 carousel or grabbing something sweet from the soda fountain. From the roller coaster and Ferris wheel to the arcade and the sign noting that it is the official end of Route 66, there’s tons of fun to be had here.

Although it only existed as a unified, legally codified road for 59 years—between 1926 and 1985—Route 66 became a great symbolic trailway of human civilization. It will live forever as a route whose traffic reshaped the world of its time, transporting generations of adventurers, migrants, grifters, and dreamers toward untold opportunities.

Route 66 gave rise to new towns, new industries, and a new vernacular architecture. A great deal of it was lost when most cross-country travel migrated to the interstates, but today, a thriving community of people who live along the road—travelers, well-wishers, and preservationists—share news and stories, raise money to protect landmarks, maintain museums, and otherwise work hard to protect its legacy. The route’s future, thanks to roadtrippers like you, looks bright. 

Although it only existed as a unified, legally codified road for 59 years—between 1926 and 1985—Route 66 became a great symbolic trailway of human civilization.

The Mother Road has been firmly embedded in the American mythos for decades. In the 1940s, Bob Troup pounded out “(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66,” a catchy and enduring standard that has been covered by dozens of artists, from Nat King Cole to The Cramps. In the 1960s, CBS notched a major hit with Route 66, a series whose plot mostly amounted to two handsome guys rambling around the country in a Corvette roadster. Very few of the show’s episodes were actually set in towns anywhere near the road it was named for, making it clear that Route 66 had already become shorthand for the adventuresome American spirit, and for the open road itself. And since the Mother Road disappeared from official maps and its signage was removed in 1985, its mystique has only grown.

Route 66 by state

It’s time to hit the road, so hop in!

Use this guide for either westbound (Chicago to Santa Monica) or eastbound (Santa Monica to Chicago) travel along Route 66. For simplicity, this page is organized from east to west, as that’s the most popular way to experience the route. Should you venture from California to Illinois, just start by reading the section on California and work your way up the page.

Route 66 Illinois

Chicago, Illinois, is the eastern terminus of the Mother Road—depending on which way you travel, you will either start or end your trip across from Grant Park and Lake Michigan. After leaving the Windy City, the road takes you southwest through rural Midwestern towns full of classic motel neon, vintage filling stations, roadside giants, and historic bridges until you hit the Mississippi River and East St. Louis. 

The stretch of Route 66 from Chicago to St. Louis is home to aluminum-and-chrome diners, historic, family-owned cafes, bizarre attractions, and other reminders of the route’s charming past. You’ll also see plenty of cornfields and flat prairie land between the bustling cities and sleepy towns along this first leg. 

There are nearly 300 miles of Route 66 in Illinois. The state is also home to many of the country’s most famous Muffler Men , those fiberglass titans of retro roadside kitsch. A lot of the old route has been gobbled up by modern highways, in particular I-55, but there’s still plenty of neon, fiberglass, and chrome to keep any roadtripper happy. Traditionally, travelers begin their journey southwest near the shores of Lake Michigan, not spending too much time in Chicago. After all, the Mother Road is calling.

Route 66 Missouri

Many miles of Missouri’s Route 66 have been replaced over the years by larger highways, so what remains of the original road is a patchwork, especially in and around St. Louis. The Show-Me State contains several abandoned stretches of the Mother Road, but it’s still possible to travel on quite a bit of the original route. More than 300 miles of road takes you southwest from St. Louis to Joplin, a stretch packed with fantastic diners, classic roadside attractions, and classic photo ops. 

Few cities are lucky enough to have an architectural icon like the Gateway Arch overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, but there’s so much more to St. Louis. The city has a booming craft brewery scene, a rich history, and top-notch cultural institutions. Whether you’re eating at an old-school soda fountain or getting lost in a phantasmagorical wonderland, St. Louis is an excellent weekend destination.

The stretch of Route 66 from St. Louis to Tulsa is considered by some travelers to be the heart of Route 66. It’s where east meets west, linking up the Midwest with the West Coast. Much of this stretch is on I-44, which means lots of exits and county roads, but the scenery is often beautiful.

Springfield is known both as the “Queen City of the Ozarks” and the “Birthplace of Route 66.” Located in south-central Missouri at a strategic crossroads, Springfield was a railroad hub, home to a bloody Civil War battle, and played an important role in the birth of the Mother Road. Route 66 was aligned through the city in 1926, realigned in 1936, and funneled travelers to the many motels and businesses located along the way until I-44 bypassed the city in 1958.

Route 66 Kansas

The Kansas section of Route 66 is short but sweet, and manages to pack in several must-see stops in a little under 14 miles (13.2 to be exact). This small stretch passes through three towns—Galena, Riverton, and Baxter Springs—and can be driven in as little as 30 minutes. Kansas is the only state on your journey where the Mother Road isn’t interrupted by the interstate. Don’t miss the only remaining Marsh Arch Rainbow Bridge, several museums, and other small businesses—on Kansas’ stretch of Route 66, you’ll find quality over quantity.

Galena is one of the most well-preserved towns along Route 66. Home to the Kan-O-Tex gasoline station from Disney’s Cars , the Murals of Galena , and a 1952 Will Rogers Marker, Galena was once a successful mining town. The town was hit hard by the Depression and violent miner strikes. Later, when the town was bypassed by I-44, tourists stopped visiting, the mines closed down, and the population dropped. Today, several historic buildings around town offer a peek into Galena’s rocky past.

Route 66 Oklahoma

Oklahoma takes pride in, and embraces, most of its nearly 400 miles of Route 66. There are more driveable portions of the old Mother Road in Oklahoma than in any other state, and plenty of reasons to stop the car along the way. From Quapaw to Texola, this stretch is home to the Blue Whale of Catoosa , Art Deco gems of Tulsa, and two excellent museums filled with Route 66 history. Don’t forget to stop into the Sandhills Curiosity Shoppe in Erick and say hi to Harley Russell —if you’re lucky, he might just serenade you with a round of “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” or hand you a guitar so you can play along. 

In addition to Tulsa’s massive Golden Driller statue and the Tumbleweed Grill and Country Store , this stretch is home to some absolutely amazing retro Route 66 hotels (even if you aren’t staying, pull over for the vintage signage). A few of the more famous ones include the Desert Hills Motel in Tulsa, the Skyliner Motel in Stroud , and the Lincoln Motel in Chandler .

Take a moment to explore Stroud, a small town that is known as “Oklahoma’s Winery and Grape Capital.” Here you can also find unpaved segments of the original road, built in 1915 and incorporated into Route 66 in the 1920s. Don’t miss the dirt section of the original Ozark Trail road and stop for a photo—and a BLT—at the iconic Rock Cafe .

Oklahoma City is the state’s capital and the largest city you’ll pass through on Route 66 in Oklahoma. OKC is home to many museums, memorials, and motels, in addition to a few stops worth a detour from the main route.

Route 66 Texas

The Lone Star State has about 180 miles of old Route 66 road still remaining. It closely parallels Interstate 40, so it’s easy to hop on and off stretches of the Mother Road. The billboards along I-40 may not tell you this, but we will: Some of the very best roadside attractions in the U.S. are right here in the panhandle of Texas.

The town of Vega sits right on historic Route 66 and has several landmarks worth stopping for. Also worth checking out are Dot’s Mini Museum , Rooster’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina , the Hickory Inn Cafe , Bonanza Motel , Vega Motel (built in 1947), and a restored Magnolia service station . As one of the sunniest places in the U.S., Vega is sometimes referred to as the “Solar Capital of Texas.”

Route 66 New Mexico

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment, and for good reason. There is certainly something enchanting about the Southwest. Maybe it’s the combination of hot springs, forests, desert, and mountains, or the area’s rich history and strong, visceral ties to the past. Towns such as Santa Fe and Taos are full of art galleries, boutiques, innovative architecture , museums, great restaurants, and more. There are some gorgeous side trips you can enjoy, including the High Road to Taos or a drive down the Turquoise Trail , a scenic byway that connects Santa Fe to Albuquerque. The trail commemorates the state’s mining history as it passes through the stone-and-ore-laden mountains and former boom towns. 

Albuquerque is a high desert city with an artsy vibe. Admire the Pueblo architecture, explore Old Town, pop into the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center , and learn about the desert at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden .

The Laguna Pueblo is located 45 minutes west of Albuquerque, right on Route 66. When you pass the whitewashed St. Joseph church, you’ll know that you’ve arrived at the pueblo, which spans four counties and comprises six villages. Part of the pueblo dates back to the 1400s, but people have been settled in the area since at least the 1300s, and tribes have passed through since 3000 B.C. The Pueblo of Laguna is especially fun to visit during feast days: March 19, July 25 to 26, August 10, August 15, September 8, September 19, September 25, and October 17.

Gallup is the largest city between Albuquerque and Flagstaff along Route 66, and it’s full of motels, dining options, and classic neon signage. Don’t miss the Muffler Man cowboy located just off the route near downtown. If you’re staying overnight, you can’t get much better than the old Hollywood El Rancho Hotel and Motel . Gallup, which lies in the middle of a Navajo Reservation, is also home to an abundance of Native American crafts, artwork, and history.

Route 66 Arizona

You’ll know you’re crossing into Arizona when you spot the large, bright white Teepee Trading Post advertising “jewelry, pottery, kachinas, and southwest souvenirs.” The teepee-shaped souvenir shop is set against a striking backdrop of dramatic red rock cliffs and it’s a great place to pull over, grab a drink, use the restroom, and load up on souvenirs. With the exception of the Navajo Nation, most of Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time so be sure to confirm the time as you cross the Arizona/New Mexico border.

Sedona is one of those places you just have to experience in person—even the most spectacular photos don’t fully do it justice. Surrounded by majestic red rock canyons and pine forests, this small desert town is known for its vibrant art scene and mysterious healing forces. Yes, you read that right—Sedona is supposedly a hotbed of cosmic activity, sitting atop several energy vortexes that are easily accessible through hikes and tours. With its artsy vibe and comfortable climate, Sedona is also home to cute shops and restaurants, galleries, and lots of aging hippies. 

Words (and even pictures) simply cannot do Grand Canyon National Park justice—it’s one of those truly epic places you just have to see in person to believe. Officially designated as a national park in 1919, the Grand Canyon sees more than five million visitors annually. The massive canyon was formed by erosion from the Colorado River after the plateau was lifted due to seismic activity, revealing rock that’s more than a billion years old. Whether you take in the sweeping views from the top or hike into its depths, you’ll quickly discover why it’s one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a ghost town more real—or more alive—than Oatman. Located at the edge of Arizona on Route 66 and perched 2,700 feet above sea level in the Black Mountains, Oatman is a strange place run by wild burros .

Route 66 California

The California section of Route 66 will give you a proper taste of the Golden State’s diverse scenery, from tiny desert ghost towns to the urban sprawl of Los Angeles. This stretch is also packed with iconic roadside attractions. Take your time and meander through the glass forest at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch or get your photo taken next to the freshly restored neon sign at Roy’s Motel and Cafe . Before you know it, you’ll be finishing this epic journey at the end of the Santa Monica pier , where the West Coast meets the Pacific Ocean.

You’ll know you’re at the end of your journey once you arrive at the Pacific Ocean. But to reach the official end point of Route 66—and take a photo of the iconic “End of the trail” sign—you’ll have to ditch the car and walk to the end of the Santa Monica Pier. The coastal city of Santa Monica is also home to the original Muscle Beach outdoor gym and the pier’s Pacific Park amusement park. 

Congratulations! You have reached the end of the Mother Road—and by now you know it’s not the destination that matters, it’s the journey. But whether the Santa Monica Pier is your ending or starting point, take some time to celebrate and reflect. With more than 2,000 miles of classic neon, motels, larger-than-life roadside attractions, museums, diners, and countless colorful characters, it should be obvious why the allure of Route 66 is as strong as ever. The road may look different today than it did decades ago—or even yesterday—but that’s all part of the fun.

Roadtrippers Magazine: Route 66

7 iconic Route 66 locations that inspired the makers of Pixar's ‘Cars’

8 iconic pop culture locations on a Route 66 road trip

At the country's last remaining Woolworth's lunch counter, burgers are served with a side of Civil Rights history

Route 66 is for everyone: Immigrant communities and Somalian cowboys are challenging stereotypes along the Mother Road

Route 66 goes electric: Meet the people and initiatives bringing the Mother Road into the future

The ultimate guide to riding Route 66 on a motorcycle

How should you pack for route 66.

An over-packed car can quickly turn into a disorganized mess, and you’re likely to forget about half the stuff you brought if they’re not easy to access. With that in mind, focus on accessibility and multi-functional items. 

A small overnight bag should contain everything you need after a long day of driving—think sleepwear, toiletries, and a good book. 

Your car should be packed according to what you’ll need first. Items specific to a destination further down the road, or gear for weather that might occur later in your trip, should be packed beneath items you’ll need regularly or right away.

Where does Route 66 start and end?

Route 66 starts in downtown Chicago and ends at the Santa Monica pier in California. Throughout the journey from Chicago to Santa Monica, you’ll discover sections where the original route diverges, seemingly shooting off in two directions and yet nowhere at once. It is a prime lesson in the art of the road trip: A sudden change in direction, an abrupt end to the pavement, and a few wrong turns are all welcome parts of the adventure rather than an inconvenience.

How long does it take to drive Route 66?

Typically, travelers will plan no less than two weeks for the entire Mother Road road trip. In that amount of time, you’ll be able to visit the major sites. But if you want to savor the entire experience—strolling historic downtowns, sipping a root beer float at a soda fountain, and sleeping at a retro motel with a blinking neon sign—you could spend up to a month or longer.

What is the best way to travel Route 66?

Will you go from Chicago to Los Angeles or vice versa? Travelers often chose the east-to-west direction as that’s the route originally taken by pioneers escaping the Dust Bowl in the 1920s. But you can’t go wrong either way.

How long does it take to drive the Route 66?

What is the best time to do route 66.

The best time to take a road trip on Route 66 is from late April to early October. Be prepared for remnants of ice and snow during the early spring and thunderstorms in late spring and early summer. During July and August—peak travel months—expect sometimes sweltering temperatures, over-crowded attractions, and higher rates for lodging. 

Come late October and into November, you might see snowfall on parts of the route. Winter is considered the off-season, and some places may be closed until spring, so it’s always best to call ahead if you’re venturing out onto Route 66 between late November and early April. Whatever time you travel, expect variations in climate as you’ll be traversing through many different states and terrains.

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• Packages & Tours

Route 66 Motorcycle Tour™

Guided tour - 15 days/ 14 nights, 2807 mi 4491.2 km, summer, spring, fall, 55 - 105 °f 12.8 - 40.6 °c.

EagleRider's world-famous Route 66 motorcycle tour follows the original Route 66, known as the "Mainstreet of America" or the "Mother Road". Stretching over 2400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 traverses three time zones and eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Route 66 has been the route of migrants, dreamers, outlaws, and an entire generation of holidaymakers discovering the path to the west. The 1950s were the heyday of Route 66 when thousands of cars drove bumper to bumper to experience the Western frontier. Hotels, motels, gas stations, classic restaurants, and the "New" America popped up everywhere. Much of Route 66's iconic roads, restaurants, gas stations, and nostalgic landmarks are preserved just as they were in the 1950s. The famous and nostalgic Route 66 is the perfect road for motorcycle touring, almost like it was made for it. In simple terms, this is the guided tour of America!

Turn your journey into an exciting Harley Tour by choosing one of our fantastic Harley models, such as the Harley-Davidson Street Glide Touring Edition, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Harley-Davidson Road Glide, Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic, Harley-Davidson Street Bob, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Ultra, Harley-Davidson Road Glide Touring Edition, or for a different riding experience, opt for our sport touring models like the Yamaha FJR1300 and Yamaha Super Tenere 1200.

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Tour Itinerary

0 mi / 0 km, chicago, il - arrival.

Welcome to the Windy City! Nicknamed the 'Paris of the Prairie', Chicago is the biggest and most exciting of the Great Lake cities. It includes a stunning skyline along Lake Michigan, and a gamut of top-rated museums, restaurants and cafes, and innumerable bars and nightclubs that pay homage to the city’s strong jazz and blues heritage. Tonight you will get to meet your fellow riders and Tour Guides at an Orientation Meeting at the tour hotel, followed by a great Welcome Dinner to kick-off your dream Route 66 journey!

187 mi / 299.2 km

Chicago, il – springfield, il.

This morning you pick up your bike and are off to the ultimate American road trip. The legendary Route 66 begins at the doorstep of our EagleRider location, cutting through the state of Illinois before running all the way to the Pacific Coast. From Chicago you head south along the Pontiac Trail, the original name for this bit of the road here, passing through Joliet, stopping at the amazing RT 66 Museum in Pontiac and generally getting a feel for the rubber on the Mother Road.

116 mi / 185.6 km

Springfield, il – st. louis, mo.

Today we head towards St. Louis! We will stay primarily on the 2-lane sections of the Mother Road, traversing cornfields and small towns that represent the heartland of America. Our arrival into St. Louis will be over the Chain of Rocks Bridge, the original bridge where RT 66 crossed the Mississippi River. Enjoy the short ride today into the "Gateway to the West," St. Louis. This amazing city rests along the shores of the mighty Mississippi River and is home to some of the best live music and BBQ ribs in the country.

15 Days Guided Route 66 Motorcycle Tour™ Inclusions

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EagleRider tour guide on his 66th tour of famous Route 66

EagleRider's Route 66 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Route 66 Guided Motorcycle Tour

Day 7 & 8

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Route 66 Motorbike Tour - Albuquerque to Los Angeles

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Route 66 Motorcycle Tour - Chicago to Albuquerque

Chicago, IL

8 Days/ 7 Nights

Route 66 Self-Guided Motorbike Tour

Self-Guided

15 Days/ 14 Nights

UK: 0845 557 8513 (Local Rate)

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Route 66 Motorcycle Hire

Interested in hiring a bike and riding The Mother Road?

Route 66 One-Way Rental

14 Days Hire  ·   Pick Up: Chicago  ·  Drop Off: Los Angeles Rate Varies Depending on Motorcycle Exchange rates have been very volatile – we strive to provide the most competitive rates on the internet!

Basic insurance required for you to legally ride is included in the price above. Optional additional insurances which cover theft, damage to the motorcycle, rental reimbursement and addition incident coverage is available, click here for more details .

The great thing about renting a bike and riding Route 66 is that you choose where you stop and for how long. There are so many things to see that it would take several months of riding 66 to take it all in. When you do a Guided Tour with a large group, stops are planned, but if you’re on a Route 66 Motorcycle Hire, you can be spontaneous. So if you see an abandoned fuel station and want to explore it, or want to relax for a few hours with a good book at a vintage diner, it’s no worry.

There are a large variety of motorcycles to choose from: Harleys, Honda Gold Wing, BMW RT & GS, and several Triumph Motorcycles. And you can rent one-way, meaning you pick up in Chicago and drop off in Los Angeles, no round trip required. You can even choose to do a reverse 66, from Los Angeles to Chicago.

We’ve ridden Route 66 with no accommodations booked, riding until we were tired or found somewhere cool. It’s a real adventure when you have no itinerary.

Hire rates vary depending on the model of motorcycle, number of days rented, time of year and optional insurances chosen.

We’ve also put together a 13 day hire special with EagleRider, plenty of time to enjoy Route 66 and take a detour to Las Vegas or perhaps the Grand Canyon. The Lost Adventure is an Official EagleRider Tour Operator, carrying EagleRider’s full line of rentals, as well as their Guided and Self-Drive Tours.

View Route 66 Photos & Videos

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Read stories and riding tips for route 66.

Get your eats on Route 66!

50 Tips For Riding A Motorcycle Across America

Keep Your Bike and Gear Safe While Touring

Tips For Safe Group Riding

Traveling the world since 2007 on my recumbent tricycle, Myrtle the Turtle.

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Friday, December 09, 2022

2023 moto-myrtle 9,000 mile usa tour details.

I've been teasing everyone with talk about this upcoming epic 9,000 mile 2023 USA trike tour for awhile now. Today is the day I put down some details. This tour will start in March. It is a huge undertaking and I'm already hearing excitement from my Travels By Trike followers and YouTube channel subscribers. 

Since my last tour, in 2019 going down the Pacific Coast from Portland, OR to Berkeley, CA using the Shimano Steps E8000 electric assist, a lot has happened. For starters, I bought a truck and trailer which dramatically changed the way I travel. For the previous 15 years, I didn't own a car and used my trike exclusively for transportation and touring. For the last 3 years, I've been carrying my trike in the back of my truck looking for rail trails and cycling paths to explore while living the RV life. Covid hit in 2020 which postponed any cycle touring plans especially out of the country. 

Covid isn't over but feels like we've come to a place where we're learning to live with it and each person needs to do whatever feels right to stay safe and healthy. Everything is open again and I don't expect anymore shutdowns like we experienced the 1st couple of years of the pandemic. For a long while, there was too much uncertainty to even consider getting out on the road but, now, touring feels safe again. 

I always thought that my next tour would be in Europe and I'm sure it will happen sometime in the next couple of years. But, at the moment, airline travel to Europe is too unreliable for me to consider touring there. So often flights are canceled at the last minute or baggage doesn't arrive to the final destination. 

Lots of people who follow me also follow Matt Galat who was a touring triker that has a successful Youtube channel. He recently went to the Czech Republic to get a new Azub trike from the factory. He packed his new trike in a box for the flight back to Detroit, Michigan. The trike was checked in with his other luggage but got lost, for weeks. 

I was at Cycle Con in Dayton, Ohio last October. Cycle Con is a recumbent industry show where vendors and manufacturers gather to present their latest products. Almost all of the international vendors didn't get their luggage! It simply didn't arrive at Dayton, Ohio. They all ended up going to Walmart to buy replacement clothes and many didn't have all of their products to display.

I'm spending the winter in the desert of Southern California living in my 17 foot trailer parked behind a Catholic church.  My friend Joni, who also rides a trike, has generously allowed me to park on the church lot offering me electricity, water and wifi hook-ups. She is also letting me keep my truck and trailer parked here while I go on my 10 month tour. I've been here the last 2 winters and it has been a true oasis especially during the time of covid. We've, jokingly, called ourselves Covid survivors. I also know a few more people and even trike riders in the area. Winter cycling in the Coachella Valley near Palm Springs is fantastic and this is where I'm preparing for my epic 9,000 mile tour.

From the Recumbent Retreat, I'll take the Pacific Coast bike route south through Oregon and California, to visit my sister in Crescent City and spend Thanksgiving with family in Berkeley. I'm expecting to get to Los Angeles and make my way back to the church in the desert by the middle of December.

I'm really excited about this tour. It's the longest tour I've ever done in miles and time. It's also the 1st tour that I have publicized. Usually, I pick a route and just go. This one feels different, because there haven't been any tours to follow for a couple of years due to covid. It's been really quiet in the cycle touring world. Another reason for excitement is I'll be touring in my home country. All my previous tours have been in the winter months which would be too cold to attempt this cycling route. As usual, I'll be going solo and unsupported. Even though I'll be using my Shimano Steps E8000 electric assist, I'm still very slow and not the easiest person to tour with. Most people want to get through the miles and I'm more interested in exploring and learning and stopping to take photos and videos or fly my drone. I've yet to find anyone to successfully tour with, which has always been ok with me. That said, I hope to meet lots of people along the way. I want to set up meetings and group rides where ever there are people interested. 

I'll be 64 years old when I start this tour. My HP Scorpion fs20 trike, Myrtle the Turtle, will be over 11 years old. I'll also be using the Shimano Steps E8000 electric assist system that is over 3 years old. There will be lots of tests for me, my trike and all the gear as I roll across the country. I'll also be presenting videos and blog posts explaining every aspect of preparation for this tour.

A fellow trike rider, Andy from Missouri, has designed and developed a contact form and database for my tour. This will allow me to know where people who would like to meet up are generally located. I hope to be in touch with lots of you. Please fill out the form to be updated on meet-ups, group rides as well as the latest news of this and future tours. 

9 comments:

I’m so excited to follow you as you trike across the country Sylvia!

Thanks, sweetie!

Brenda and I will be crossing the USA from east to west from June through the end of September 2023, for about 4000 miles. We might see you on the Katy Trail.

That would be great. Happy touring.

Excited to follow ur travels & updates💙

Hey, it's me, The Mile High Triker! It's going to take awhile before you reach Colorado - I'm guessing late summer - but I should be around when you get here. I live in Aurora, whih is a large suburb to the east of Denver. It looks like the route (or is it "root?“) you're taking will bring you close to where I live. I will stay in touch with you via your YT channel or whatever method works. Good luck with everything and Merry Christmas!

Thank you for posting your route. It looks amazing. You’ll be on some awesome trails.

Have E-Trike, Will travel !

Welcome to Washington, D.C…. Vienna, va. Happy to host you!

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Sturgis Tour

"The Greatest Trip of my life!"

Hello Wil and Erin. Just a short note to thank you for the ‘BEST VACATION EVER’. Both Brian and Andy were exceptionally professional and it is fair to say that that trip would not have been as good without the professional and friendly banter between the group and the guides. They were well able to cater for the differences in the group and this aided the holiday. The locations, lodgings and roads traveled matched and, sometimes, exceeded our expectations. On at least two occasions the accommodations were part of our dreams. ( Log cabin on a lake ) Read More

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The Street Glide Grand Touring is a Special Version of the Street Glide and includes an upgraded Electra Glide style seat. This adds extra comfort, a tour pack for increased luggage capacity, and a taller windscreen. The Grand Touring Street Glide sits a little lower than an Electra Glide.

Locking hard side and top case. Front fairing with tall shield. Comfortable rear passenger seat and backrest. BMW charging port, needs adapter for other chargers. No GPS.

Scout 60 has smaller motor than standard Scout. Non locking rear soft leather side bags. No windshield. No passenger seat. No passenger back rest. No luggage rack. No charging ports. No built in GPS.

Compares to a Harley Road King Locking rear hard side cases. Removable large tall windshield ( recommend leaving for long trips ) Comfortable passenger seat. Passenger back rest. Stock luggage rack. No charging ports. No built in GPS.

Locking hard side and top case. Front fairing with taller shield. Largest rear passenger seat and backrest. Cigarette type of charging port in fairing. Built in GPS.

Compares closest to a Harley Softail Heritage Classic in options, but closer to Road King size Non locking rear soft leather side bags. Removable large tall windshield ( recommend leaving for long trips ) Fairly comfortable passenger seat. Passenger back rest. Stock luggage rack. No charging ports. No built in GPS.

Locking hard side and top case. Front fairing with taller shield. Largest rear passenger seat and backrest. Cigarette type of charging port. Built in GPS at most locations.

Locking rear hard side cases. No top case. Front fairing with tall shield. Rear passenger seat. Passenger back rest and stock luggage rack. BMW charging port, needs adapter for other chargers. No GPS.

comes with rear side cases, front shield san fran Locking rear hard side cases. No top case. Very small windshield. Small passenger seat. No passenger back rest. No luggage rack, there are places to strap to over back seat. Charging port needs adapter for non BMW chargers. No built in GPS.

Locking rear hard side cases. No top case. Small windshield. Small passenger seat. No passenger back rest. Stock luggage rack. Charging ports in special BMW port, need adapter for other chargers. No built in GPS.

The Heritage Softail® Classic is styled to recall the past. The fat front fork is reminiscent of a 1949 Harley-Davidson® Hydra Glide. The old-fashioned looking, studded-leather saddlebags, chrome-studded seat add to its classic look, as does the full windshield, floorboards, large chrome headlamp with twin passing lamps and Fat Bob fuel tank. Sixteen-inch laced wheels feature a new chromed-aluminum hub and a machined-aluminum rear hub. The Heritage Softail is American iron at its finest; the perfect blend of chrome, leather and steel. This bike has a wide, comfortable seat for riders; and one of the most comfortable seat and backrest combinations for passengers. The riding position is a bit more reclined that other touring models, and the handlebar height provides riders with a sensation of riding a classic American chopper, while still allowing for a comfortable and safe ride. The 25.5″ seat height makes it an attractive bike for riders with shorter legs who still want the comfort and handling of a touring model.

The current Harley-Davidson Sportster is almost unrecognizable from its original incarnation. The motorcycle delivers serious power and performance to the sport bike enthusiast, and it begs to be revved hard for everyone around to hear. Features One of the Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster’s most important features, introduced in 2004, is its rubber engine mounts that isolate you from vibration so well you won’t be able to believe it. On the other side of these mounts is a 1200cc, air-cooled, 45-degree tandem V-twin powerplant, which has been improved to handle all the hard riding you’ll want to give it now that it won’t shake the teeth out of your head. The 4.5-gallon tank goes for nearly 200 miles, and you’ll want to ride this bike for a long time indeed. History Harley-Davidson first rolled out the line in 1957 with the 883 Sportster, which was bigger and more aggressively-tuned than the vast majority of bikes of the day, and it reigned as the undisputed champion in its class until the late 1960s. It was slowly overtaken by faster and more efficient motorcycles, and it became known as a sort of second-rate Harley for many years. But in 2004, HD almost completely redesigned the bike, keeping little but the frame of the original, and the Sportster 1200 Nightster is master of its domain once again. Famous Appearances The Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 has graced the silver screen in Monster Garage (in which the bike is featured quite prominently), Muppets from Space, and Radical Jack. It has also appeared on television’s Oz, Matlock , and Hotel Babylon .

The Electra Glide is revered by enthusiasts for its comfort, capacity, style and grace on the open road. The base model in Harley’s touring lineup, the 870 pound motorcycle has been a best seller for two decades and is easily identified by its front fairing and wide leather seat. State of the Art Features Introduced in 1999, the twin cam 96 cubic inch 1584cc engine is tried and true. The same reliability that’s powered Harley’s for nearly a century is packaged with leading technology, comfort, and design. The ride offers good maneuverability at low speeds, comfortable high-speed cruising, smooth takeoff, and refined acceleration. The chrome and paint job is second to none and will attract stares and glances from passer-bys as you trek through your journey. Additional state-of-the-art features include a 20-watt-per-channel, four-speaker AM/FM/cassette or CD player stereo system and a rear control for the passenger, a factory alarm, standard hard saddlebags, a trunk, Weather info, full size engine guards, floorboards, and a heel/toe shifter. Hollywood Classic The Electra Glide has made more silver screen appearances than perhaps any other bike in history. It’s iconic American appearance has been immortalized on camera in Police Academy, The Departed, Ghostbusters, In the Line of Fire, Point Break, Analyze This, and Me Myself and Irene, as well as hit TV shows Miami Vice, Dragnet, CHiPs, Twin Peaks, and The Sentinel.

The Road King® has become one of Harley’s most popular models. Although it’s been categorized as a touring bike, it’s equally impressive as a cruising motorcycle. Introduced by HD in 1994, Road King’s have a classic/retro influence with a headlight nacelle reminiscent of 60s Big Twins, removable windshields, wide whitewall tires, and hard dual saddlebags. Ideal for Touring It is easy to control on all surfaces and conditions, and is stable even at low speeds. The 1584cc Twin Cam 96 engine has lots of power and torque, and can easily support 2 people. The seat is soft and comfortable for long trips, and the dual hard saddlebag compartments provide ample storage for all of your travel gear. ABS brakes, luggage rack, and electronic throttle control give this bike all the modern amenities. Touring features include the windshield and passenger seat, which are easily removable, allowing for quick conversion to a custom solo look. Accenting the traditional styling is an electric speedometer mounted into a diecast chrome dash, and a large, nostalgic “hiawatha” headlamp nacelle. Hollywood Cameos Harley’s Road King isnt shy on camera, and has made cameos in many Hollywood movies including the hit tv show “24”, Mystic River, The Jackal, Mustang Sally, and many more.

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide gives you all the power and glory of the HD touring tradition along with impressive standard features to make your trip as easy comfortable as possible. This is the bike for logging serious miles, and you’ll be thrilled and amazed at how well such a monster can handle. The HD Road Glide is a great touring motorcycle with all the Harley-Davidson styling. Features At 762 pounds, the Harley Road Glide is a middleweight monster with a 1450cc, air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin engine. The 5-gallon tank typically provides fuel economy in excess of 50mpg, perfect for long hauls. The ride is smooth and comfortable, with an effortless clutch, air shocks, and a cushy saddle. Add to that frame-mounted fairing, roomy saddlebags, and the overall responsiveness of the powerplant, and you’ve got a great tourer that doesn’t feel anywhere near its actual weight at speed. History Debuting in 1998, the Harley-Davidson Road Glide brought back the frame-mounted Tour fairing HD had introduced in 1980 on the famous Tour Glide. Other manufacturers have tried to capture some of this market segment in recent years, but the FLTR Road Glide has the history and expertise of Harley-Davidson, making it the undisputed king. In fact, the Road Glide is considered by many to be the ideal touring motorcycle, in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.

The Street Glide is known for its excellent handling and sleek lines that come as a result of the low-rise windshield. The hard saddlebags provide good storage space for 1-2 people on shorter journeys. The addition of a small luggage rack behind the passenger seat allows for extra luggage storage on longer rides or tours. Riders over 6’ tall should be aware that the windshield provides little to no wind protection from the neck up, so a full-face helmet is recommended for extended riding at higher speeds.

The custom detailing on the Dyna Low Rider® includes chrome fender supports, battery cover, belt guard, ignition cover and oil filter, and a specially designed pillow-soft, two-piece seat with a removable passenger pillion for conversion to a solo seat. The Dyna Low Rider also comes with dual-front disc brakes and a black-and-chrome power train. The Dyna Low Rider is an excellent bike for new riders, or riders with concern about being able to handle one of the larger touring model bikes that EagleRider offers. The minimal passenger / pillion seat, as well as lack of a backrest make it much more suited for a solo rider. This model has small saddlebags and does not offer a windshield or luggage rack. This is still a great bike for longer rides as long as ample luggage space is provided by other bikes or a tour company.

With its custom cruiser style, low slung stature and relaxed riding position, the 2014 version of the Harley Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom (USA version) continues to be one of the most wanted motorcycles in its class. The 2014 Harley Davidson Dyna Super Glide Custom comes with unique styling cues such as chromed tank mounted gauges, stainless steel handlebars, a fuel tank medallion and a premium paint job. The bike also features mid-mounted controls so the riding experience is pretty relaxed. The motorcycle’s center piece is a Twin Cam 96 engine with black powder-coated heads and cylinders highlighted by machined cooling fin tips and chrome rocker covers. The engine is mated on a six-speed Cruise Drive Transmission that offers an average fuel consumption of 43 mpg.

A bold, high-performance look characterizes the Sportster® 883. The 883 comes with a low-rise handlebar, sport seat, front and rear fully adjustable sport suspension, dual floating-front disc brakes, and front and rear sport Elite tires. The Sportster has been a staple of the EagleRider rental fleet since we started renting bikes 20 years ago. The low seat height, slim profile, and seating position make it one of the easiest bikes to ride, whether you are a beginning or experienced rider. The sportster has a much smaller fuel tank than our touring models, and most do not offer a passenger / pillion seat. This is an excellent bike for renters of all levels looking to have some fun riding everywhere from the heart of the city to winding mountain roads.

SPECIFICATIONS

Harley Trike For those who want comfort, looks, and an effortless ride all in one package, there is the Harley Davidson Trike. This great motor trike combines the touring features and styling cues of the Ultra Classic Electra Glide motorcycle with chassis designed specifically with trikes in mind. If you want to log serious miles in luxury but with the open-air thrills of a bike and distinctive voice of a Harley, look no further. Features The Harley Davidson Trike features a chassis designed to withstand the extra weight and steering forces of a trike. The powerplant is an air-cooled Twin Cam 96. The batwing fairing is classy and stylish, and the composite rear fenders complement the front fender beautifully. The trunk offers nearly 6 cubic feet of storage space, perfect for touring. Safe stops are provided by dual front disc brakes and a Hayes Brake dual-disc rear brake system with a lever-controlled integrated parking brake, and comfortable rear suspension is courtesy of dual air-adjustable rear shock absorbers. History This is Harley-Davidson’s first three-wheeled offering since the Servi-Car was discontinued in 1973. The unique frame and engine were specifically designed for it, not something you’ll get with trike kits.

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Route 66 on a Harley Trike - Ride Free Motorcycle Tours and Rentals

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A great 17-day experience riding - on Harley's of course - from Chicago to LA. Going with friends... read more

Huge Thanks to Wil & Erin. Original plans to ship my bike from NZ and tour Western USA fell foul of... read more

Route 66 on a Harley Trike

Great trip. Wil and Andy were great guides and ensured everything ran smoothly and was was well organised. Any small mechanical or logistical issues were dealt with so that we didn't miss any of the sights along the way.

Myself and a few mates did the "kicks on Route 66" tour a few years back as part of my 50th birthday celebration. It was absolutely fantastic, from the initial contact with the team right through to the completion of the tour. The team at Ride Free were extremely communicative throughout the total booking process and exceeded our expectations in every respect. If you're nervous about taking on a Harley tour in the USA then this is the way to it. Everything is sorted from the bikes, accommodation and meals. We didn't have to think about anything, just turned and rode. A fantastic experience that shouldn't be missed. You will not be disappointed.

We had the Shelby Mustang for the day around SF, what a piece of kit! Andrew and Wil were absolutely magnificent in helping me achieve one of my life's dreams of driving a car like this over the Golden Gate Bridge. From the first day I contacted these guys they did everything possible to help and accommodate our needs, as our trip to the USA was on a very tight schedule. I will certainly recommend Andrew to organise any trip of any sorts like this either in LA or SF I can't wait to do the west coast properly in another one of theirs classics hopefully within the next two years. Keep up the good work Guys, you are brilliant!

The trip from Chicago to LA on Route 66 (the mother road) is like nothing else and is a once in a lifetime blast and just do it if it is on the bucket list. Its a must do in the 61 Convertible caddy and Wil and Andrew are just a genuine bunch of guys. See all the details on http://ridefree.com/rent-classic-car

Wil and the staff at Ridefree were amazing....nothing was too much trouble. They gave us heaps of information and maps on all the attractions etc on our route, with a full run down on our car which meant we could head off on our exciting road trip without any worries or stress. The car too, apart from how awesome it looked, was in perfect running order and the added bonus was an iphone doc so we could play our own music all the way! Nothing like having songs like "San Francisco", "Monterey", "Santa Monica" etc playing loudly in our old school car :) Not to mention people wanting to come up and talk and wave to us. It was just awesome and well worth it!

Terrific Journey in a wonderful 1961 caddy. Look forward to re use the services of Wil and his team again because their hospitality, availability to answer questions before arriving in their locations, quality of their vehicles and even if "when you love you don't have to calculate" their price was also an argument to choose them. On the road again...in a classic of course, really soon i hope.