Traveling Santa Monica Mountains via Motorcycle
We will have to admit that we’re a bit biased for the Santa Monica Mountains, as they are, quite literally, in our backyard. We know the roads like the back of our hands, and they are among the best in the world, even after riding them thousands of times.
Rising quickly from the cruisers paradise that is Pacific Coast Highway, the Santa Monica Mountains are a mix of State Parks and Wilderness Areas, mixed with exclusive housing for the rich and famous. Mulholland Highway sets the tone for the area, running from upscale Calabasas in the northeast to Leo Carrillo State Beach, just west of Malibu.
Mulholland Highway has fast sections with heart-stopping sweepers, extraordinarily tight switchbacks, and a few rev limiter-testing straights for who like to see the speedometer spin.
Side routes range from the faster Encinal Canyon Road and Kanan Dume Road, to the constantly challenging Decker, Latigo Canyon, Piuma, and Tuna Canyon Roads. No matter your taste in twisties, the Santa Monica Mountains deliver.
Weekends, especially in the morning hours, are quite popular with the local law enforcement agencies, as well as a number of riders with more bravado than judgment.
In stark contrast, the Santa Monica Mountains are extraordinarily quiet on weekdays, especially given their proximity to the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Many miles can be clocked without seeing another vehicle, turning the mountains into a semi-private playground.
Good eats and socializing are also aplenty, including the world famous Rock Store and the Rustic Canyon General Store and Grill in the canyons, as well as Neptune’s Net and Malibu Seafood at the water. Cruisers and sportbike riders are welcome and mix effortlessly.
Although you can bring your motorcycle from anywhere to ride the Santa Monica Mountains, Rent A Ducati makes it easy for visitors to the Southern California area to hit the canyons in first class style.
The breadth of the Ducati line is available for rent – 1199 Panigale, Multistrada, Diavel, Monster, and Hypermotard – so no matter what type of bike you like to ride, Rent A Ducati has it covered, with a location at Beach Moto in nearby West Los Angeles.
