The Best Place to Ride Your Motorcycle in Greater Vancouver
If you’re searching for the best motorcycle rides in Greater Vancouver, this guide is for you. We asked the mechanics at Greater Vancouver's Imperial Motorcycles—guys who live and breathe motorcycles and ride every week—where they actually go when they want to unwind, test a new setup, or just enjoy a proper ride. Their answers (plus some local favourites from the Vancouver riding community) might surprise you.
These aren’t the tourist routes. They’re the roads riders choose when the weather’s right, the traffic’s light, and the itch to get out is too strong to ignore.
Why Greater Vancouver Riders Trust These Routes
Not every road in the Lower Mainland is worth riding. Between traffic, construction, and unpredictable weather, it’s easy to waste a Saturday stuck in the wrong spot. That’s why we wanted to put together a shortlist of routes that actually deliver: scenic, technical, and worth repeating.
These roads are close enough for a morning rip or half-day ride, and they reflect the real preferences of local riders who ride year-round. You won’t need days off or a trailer to enjoy them. You just need the right weather window and a bike that’s ready to go.
Note: If you’re looking for a bigger adventure outside of the city, here’s Imperial's list of adventurous motorcycle trips you can take from Vancouver.
Imperial’s Favourite Place to Ride? Mission.
We asked the Imperial Motorcycle mechanics the question straight:
“What’s the best place to ride your motorcycle in Greater Vancouver?”
Dylan didn’t hesitate:
“I like around Mission. There’s a lot of good little back roads near Stave Lake. And if you go early enough in the morning, you’re not going to get slammed in traffic. I like the tighter, technical roads.”
Stefano agreed:
“Mission. I don’t know if it’s considered Greater Vancouver, but Mission back roads.”
And Kent threw in a different answer that stirred up some controversy in the comments section:
“Burnaby, New Westminster. Everyone’s kind of mellow.”
After asking a few more technicians and the guys behind the desk, Mission seemed to be the clear winner. It’s just far enough out of the city to feel like a getaway, with winding roads, elevation shifts, and quiet corners that test your handling without risking your license. If you haven’t taken Dewdney Trunk Road east of Maple Ridge or looped up toward Stave Lake, you’re missing some of Greater Vancouver’s best riding.
The Community Weighed In, Too
Imperial posted the same question on Instagram and TikTok, and the local community had no shortage of suggestions.
- Mission & Stave Lake got mentioned again and again. Geoff C. said:
“Mission early morning. Dewdney Trunk from Pitt Meadows out, and once you climb the hill from Stave Lake there are some nice twisties.”
- Fort Langley came up more than once, with smooth roads, riverside stretches, and less traffic on weekday evenings.
- Maple Ridge to Hope made the list for scenic weekend loops.
TikTok commenter Bayleavess said:
“Go down Dewdney all the way to Mission then head to Hope. Great little ride and back in time for dinner.”
- North Vancouver was shouted out by K. Lee, the ride past Capilano Suspension Bridge Park leaves you surrounded by nature at every turn.
- Burnaby & New West came up again for riders who want to stay close and cruise without pushing limits.
- No. 3 Road in Richmond got a shout from a rider who loves the straightaways and smoother flow down south.
It’s clear there’s no one right answer, but Mission keeps coming up for a reason.
When to Ride These Routes
If you’re heading toward Mission, Langley, or Fort Langley, go early. Morning light, cooler temperatures, and clear roads make for the best experience.
Avoid midday weekends unless you’re aiming to stop at a local café and take your time. Weeknights in the spring and early fall can be sneaky good. And always check for construction updates, especially on back roads near Stave Lake or the Lougheed.
Get Your Bike Ready First
Before you head out on a new route (especially if it’s been a while) do a quick check:
- Tire pressure
- Brake function
- Chain condition
- Lights and signals
- Fuel and oil levels
If you’re thinking about taking a ride soon, be sure you take a look at Imperial's guide to getting your motorcycle ready for spring.
Or better yet, book a quick check-in at Imperial. They’re based in Burnaby but service riders across the Lower Mainland. Their techs ride the same roads you do, and they can spot issues before they become problems on a twisty backroad.
Ride Farther. Ride Safer. Ride Local.
There’s no shortage of places to ride in Greater Vancouver. But the roads that local riders keep coming back to like Dewdney Trunk, Stave Lake Road, and the Fort Langley loop are proven for a reason.
Before your next ride, visit Imperial for a quick safety check or tune-up. Or even a motorcycle pre-purchase inspection if you’re thinking about a new ride. They’ll get you dialed in so your ride’s all thrill, no breakdown.
