Orlando is probably one of the top vacation destinations in America, mostly due to Disney World and Universal Orlando, home of the famed Universal Studios.
Although Orlando is known for these ginormous theme parks, travelers also visit this central part of Florida for the golf courses, nightlife, shopping malls, and warm weather year-round.
But, more importantly, the water climate makes this city in Florida a great place for motorcycling any time of year. This makes Florida one of the hot spots for renting motorcycles.
And so do the routes! Central Florida has some great routes, and the ocean is just a short ride away, too. You can also easily access Daytona, St. Augustine, or even Tampa using Orlando as a home base.
Want to know more if you plan on renting a motorcycle in Orlando? Read on to learn more about:
- Great Motorcycle Rides in Orlando
- The Best Motorcycle Hangouts in Orlando
- Orlando Weather and Riding
- Orlando Motorcycle Laws and Tips
- Preparing for Your Orlando Motorcycle Rental
- Renting a Motorcycle in Orlando
Great Rides When Renting a Motorcycle in Orlando
Although Central Florida is mostly flat, there are many scenic routes for motorcycles that aren’t packed with tourists and offer some challenges.
- Sugarloaf Mountain
- Ocala National Forest
- Route 17 – The Scenic Highway
Sugarloaf Mountain Motorcycle Route
Sugarloaf Mountain is north of Orlando, and it’s the highest mountain in Florida, all of 312 feet above sea level. The route is about 110 miles round trip, so plan on a day. There are plenty of rest stops with food along the way. On a clear day, you can even see Cape Canaveral from the peak.
(Courtesy of motorcycleroads.com)
Ocala National Forest Motorcycle Route
A little farther north of Orlando and Sugarloaf Mountain is the Ocala National Forest. It’s about 75 miles up Highway 19 to Highway 40, the route that will take you through the forest with oak trees covered in Spanish moss.
There are plenty of lakes, and you’ll love the rolling hills and gentle curves. You’ll also find plenty of local eateries and little shops where you can take a break. If you can stay overnight, plan to stay near Silver Springs and go swimming or diving.
Route 17 – The Scenic Highway Motorcycle Route
This route is absolutely gorgeous in the springtime. This is what motorcycles are all about because cagers can’t smell the orange blossoms like we can. This is a historic agricultural route where you can go through smaller towns, pass through orange groves, and ride around lakes in Central Florida.
You can make the ride in a day, even if you meander through the countryside.
(Courtesy motorcycleroads.com)
The Best Motorcycle Hangouts in Orlando
Orlando hosts many annual motorcycle events, conventions, and shows. There’s a thriving local event scene as well. Twisted Road's events page illustrates the breadth of upcoming activities in the Orlando moto scene. You can plan your trip around a special event or check out the events that will be happening when you’re in Orlando.
Ace Cafe
Ace Café is an international brand related to all types of premium cars and bikes. Every Thursday, 911 Biker Law hosts Bike Night. The restaurant offers live entertainment and food for a great evening.
(Courtesy Orlando Florida Connections)
Shovelhead Lounge, Longwood
In a north Orlando suburb, this dive bar has live heavy metal bands, pool, and casual fare. If you’re visiting Florida, you’ll want to try the Cajun boiled peanuts just to say you’ve had the southern delicacy. They’re not for everyone, but if they hit your spot you’ll be going back for seconds. The rest of the menu is delicious diner food. Oh - and southern boiled peanuts.
Orlando Motorcycling Weather
Orlando has a humid subtropical climate with essentially two seasons. From May to October, it’s hot and rainy.
You may get a shower each day, but it won’t last long - rainstorms stop within 30-45 minutes. Get off the road while it’s raining because the roads can get slick, and be careful riding after the rain stops. Rural roads can wash out or have more sand and dirt moved around.
November to April is the warm and dry season. Rarely do you see temperatures dip below freezing in the warm and dry season, but fires are a hazard during this time of year and can be severe. You’ll want a warmer jacket with a liner in the morning and early evening. Wear some lighter layers underneath because the afternoons can get warm.
Orlando Motorcycle Rental Laws and Tips
All riders in Florida under the age of 21 must wear a helmet, regardless of how much insurance they have. Florida riders over 21 must wear a helmet and protective eye gear unless they have insurance of more than $10,000.
Under Florida law, motorcycle riders must have an endorsement on their driver’s license to ride a motorcycle. Drivers must also use daytime headlights. Lane splitting is illegal in Florida.
Preparing for your Orlando Motorcycle Rental
Orlando is a great destination for a vacation. Once you know when you’re coming, work with Twisted Road to find a motorcycle to rent. We recommend bringing your own jacket, jacket liner, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, and good motorcycle riding boots. Some of our owners do loan gear so you can enjoy your ride but having your own makes the day much more comfortable.
Renting a Motorcycle in Orlando
Motorcycle rental is easy in Orlando when you use Twisted Road. Browse through our site for motorcycles of all styles. You can decide to rent a Ducati or Triumph for rides around the city or rent a Harley or BMW for touring around the area. You can even test ride a different bike each day. It’s your choice.
