The California Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR) is a stunning off road motorcycle route that takes riders through some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the state. Spanning over 800 miles, the route starts in the northernmost point of California, near the Oregon border, and ends in the southernmost point near the Mexico border. Along the way, riders will experience a diverse array of terrains and environments, from lush forests to arid deserts, rugged mountains to rolling hills.
Riding long stretches of off road trails can be intimidating especially when you are new to riding adventure motorcycles. Make sure to spend some time on getting comfortable on your bike and learning the fundamentals of off road riding before taking on big adventures like the CABDR.
The BDR was first conceptualized in 2006 by a group of motorcycle enthusiasts who wanted to create a route that would showcase the best of what California has to offer. They spent countless hours researching and mapping out the best roads and trails, and in 2007, the first California BDR was officially established. Since then, the route has become a popular destination for adventure riders from all over the world, and is considered one of the best motorcycle routes in the world.
One of the things that makes the California BDR so unique is the diversity of landscapes it traverses. Riders will start out in the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, where towering redwoods and Douglas firs provide a canopy overhead. As they make their way south, the terrain changes dramatically, transitioning into the arid deserts of the Central Valley. Here, riders will encounter cacti, Joshua trees, and other desert plants, and will have the opportunity to see some of California's iconic wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and golden eagles.
As riders continue south, they will enter the Sierra Nevada mountains, where they will be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. This section of the BDR is considered one of the most challenging, as the road climbs to elevations over 10,000 feet, with tight switchbacks and steep grades. But for those who are up to the challenge, the rewards are well worth it.
As riders leave the Sierra Nevada and make their way into Southern California, the landscape changes yet again, with the route passing through rolling hills and vast open spaces. This is the perfect place to stretch your legs and open up the throttle, as the roads here are wide and winding, and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
Having your motorcycle and equipment prepared is one of the key ingredients for a successful BDR trip.
One of the things that makes the California BDR so special is the people you will meet along the way. From the locals who live in the small towns dotting the route, to the other riders you will encounter on the road, everyone is friendly and welcoming. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop at local restaurants, bars, and hotels, where you can sample some of California's delicious food and drink, and meet other riders who are also on the BDR.
Another thing that makes the BDR so appealing is its accessibility. Unlike many other motorcycle routes, the BDR is designed to be ridden on a wide range of bikes, from big adventure bikes to smaller dual-sport motorcycles. The route is well-maintained, with plenty of gas stations and other amenities along the way, so riders don't have to worry about being stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Our adventure motorcycle training curriculum will prepare you for every type of terrain that you will come across on your BDR adventure.
However, the BDR is not without its challenges. The route is long and demanding, and requires a good level of fitness and riding skill. Riders should also be prepared for the changing weather conditions, as the route passes through a wide range of environments, from hot deserts to cold mountain passes. And, because the BDR is not a closed course, riders will have to be mindful of other vehicles, such as cars and trucks, and watch out for wild animals.
Overall, the California Backcountry Discovery Route is an unforgettable motorcycle adventure that takes riders through some of the most beautiful and stunning landscapes in the state. With over 800 miles of diverse terrain, riders will experience everything from lush forests to arid deserts, rugged mountains to rolling hills. Whether you're a seasoned adventure rider or just looking for an exciting motorcycle trip, the BDR has something to offer everyone. It's a journey that will leave an indelible mark in the minds of riders and they'll forever cherish the memories made. And the experience will make them want to ride it again, in the future. So, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime on the California BDR!
If you are interested in setting off for your first BDR adventure but you don’t feel quite ready yet, consider signing up for one of our Adventure Motorcyle classes. You will learn all of the necessary fundamental off road riding techniques that will help you along the way when riding in challenging terrain.