Spring has arrived: Bucket list riding routes and how to get your CFMOTO ready for longer days and open roads

March 1st marked the first day of Spring – one of the best times to get out and ride in the UK, due to longer daylight hours, quieter roads, and landscapes starting to bloom, making many routes especially scenic.

Whether you’re riding a CFMOTO 700MT, 800MT-X, 800NK, 450MT, or a 675SR-R, our bucket-listed routes promise adventure and unforgettable experiences.

Find 5 of the routes that made our bucket list below:

The Snake Pass – Peak District

Nestled in the heart of the Peak District and one of the UK’s most iconic motorcycle routes, this legendary road is a must-ride offering long, flowing bends and elevation changes through dramatic moorland views.

The steep and winding road in Derbyshire follows the A27 towards Snake Pass, and covers 27 miles of stunning moorland. Some areas along the route reach heights of 1700 feet above sea level, allowing riders to experience the most breathtaking views.

Popular stop-offs along the route:
– Ladybower Reservoir – offers an iconic photo spot for you and your CFMOTO
– Derwent Dam – famous as the training site for WWII “Dambusters” 617 Squadron, a popular spot with scenic views.

Cat & Fiddle – Peak District

This popular route runs between Macclesfield (Cheshire) and Buxton (Derbyshire) across the Peak District and is well known due to its moorland scenery and relentless bends. The route is named after the Cat & Fiddle Inn, which historically sat at the summit and was one of the highest pubs in England.

The scenic road offers open views across the Peak District and Cheshire Plain and is known for endless tight and sweeping corners. The route’s most technical section starts from Macclesfield and heads up to the summit, with constant bends climbing into the hills.

Popular stop-offs along the route:
– The Winking Man (A53 – Leek side) – Legendary biker pub just south of Buxton, which is a popular lunch stop and also has weekend biker gatherings.
– Yondermann Café (Wardlow Mires) – Classic Peak District biker café with huge parking

North Coast 500 (Scotland)

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is widely known as one of the best motorcycle routes in the UK. Starting and finishing in Inverness, this legendary 500-mile route loops around the northern Highlands of Scotland, taking riders through coastal landscapes, remote mountain passes, and some of the most stunning scenery in Europe.

The NC500 provides a variety of riding conditions, long sweeping roads allow riders to enjoy comfortable cruising, while more technical sections like the famous Bealach na Bà pass near Applecross challenges riders with tight hairpins and steep climbs.

Popular stop-offs along the route:
– Applecross Village: A remote coastal village known for its views across the Inner Sound
– Corrieshalloch Gorge: A dramatic Highland canyon with a suspension bridge and waterfall viewpoints.
– Dunrobin Castle: Located directly on the NC500 route, a stunning castle with gardens overlooking the North Sea.

Buttertubs Pass (Yorkshire Dales)

Buttertubs Pass is one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the Yorkshire Dales, running between the market town of Hawes and the village of Thwaite. For riders exploring northern England, this iconic stretch of road offers a perfect mix of flowing bends, open moorland, and sweeping views across the Dales.

The road takes its name from the unusual limestone potholes known as the Buttertubs, which sit beside the road near the summit. Today, they form one of the most popular stops along the pass, giving riders the chance to pull over, take in the views, and experience one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most unique landmarks.

Popular stop-offs along the route:
– Buttertubs Viewpoint: Located near the summit of the pass, this is the most famous stop along the route.
– Muker Village: Just a few miles from Thwaite, Muker is a popular stop for riders. The village has a tearoom, pub, and classic stone cottages that make it one of the most picturesque spots in the area.
– Tan Hill Inn: About 20 minutes from Buttertubs Pass, this is the highest pub in Britain and a famous destination for motorcyclists riding through the Yorkshire Dales.

Llanberis Pass (Snowdonia, Wales)

One of the most scenic motorcycle roads in Snowdonia, running between Llanberis and Capel Curig. The road winds through a dramatic mountain valley beneath Mount Snowdon, offering riders sweeping bends, rugged rock faces, and incredible views.

For riders, Llanberis Pass is less about speed and challenging routes and more about enjoying the ride and the landscape. With glacial lakes, steep mountain slopes, and several scenic lay-bys along the route, it’s a perfect road to slow down, take in the views, and experience one of the most iconic motorcycle routes in Snowdonia.

Popular stop-offs along the route:
– Llanberis Village: A great starting point with cafés, fuel, and views over Llyn Padarn.
– Pen-y-Pass: Famous Snowdon viewpoint and one of the most photographed stops in Snowdonia.
– Capel Curig: A popular stop for riders with cafés and access to other great roads like the A5 through Ogwen Valley.

Before heading out on your spring adventure, performing checks on both your CFMOTO bike and riding gear can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable ride.

We have created a handy pre-adventure checklist to ensure you and your CFMOTO are ready for the road:

Bike checks

• Tyre pressure and tread condition
• Chain tension and lubrication
• Engine oil level
• Coolant level
• Brake pads and brake fluid
• Lights, indicators, and horn
• Battery condition
• Fuel level

Riding gear

• Helmet visor is clean and scratch-free
• Gloves and a protective riding jacket
• Waterproof layers for changing weather
• Suitable boots and riding trousers

Route and travel essentials

• Planned route or sat nav ready
• Phone fully charged
• Emergency contact information
• Small tool kit or puncture repair kit
• Water and snacks for longer rides