Motorcycling in Norway

Traffic rules and tips

Norway is one of the safest countries in the world when it comes to road traffic.
Rules are strictly enforced, and the penalties for breaking them are quite stiff.

Toll roads

You do not need to stop to pay, as motorcycles are normally exempt from tolls.

Make a note of the following:

• The “give way” rule is universal. All drivers must yield to traffic from the right unless you are on a priority road. Note: No priority for vehicles leaving a parking lot.
• Headlights are mandatory at all times. Change light to parking mode if you stop along the road.
• Vehicles must always give way to pedestrians at zebra crossings.
• Motorcycle helmets are compulsory.
• The horn is only for emergency use (non-emergency use is an offence).
• Keep a minimum distance of 3 seconds to the vehicle in front of you. This rule is strictly enforced, especially on motorways.
• Parking on priority roads is generally forbidden if the posted speed limit is 60 km/h or higher.
• Outside urban areas, the general speed limit is 80 km/h. In urban areas, it is 50 km/h.

Group motorcycle riding – tips for safe riding

• Split riders up into smaller groups (depending on skill level, riding speed, and shared interests).
• Discuss the route, any roads/hazards to watch out for along the way, agreed lunch/coffee stops etc.
• Agree not to overtake each other
• Drive at a safe speed. It’s worth noting that riders at the back have to ride faster than those at the front. This could be enough to tempt some riders into making a mistake and ending up on the ground.
• Know your own limitations and ride at your own pace. It’s far better to get there a few minutes after everybody else than not get there at all.

Pay attention to road signs

You need to pay special attention to some road signs. See which ones in the PDF Motorcycling in beautiful Norway.

Motorcycling in beautiful Norway (PDF) 

Narrow roads

Minor roads are great motorcycle roads, but they are often quite narrow, and have no centreline. Make sure you stay well to the right, and be prepared to stop for kids, farm tractors bicycles, etc.

Motorhomes/caravans

Motorhomes tend to go slower than you, and take up more space. Keep a safe distance, or pass them when you get a safe chance.

Ferries

Do check the schedule (available online in most cases) before you venture off into the wild.

Speeding

In towns and urban areas, the general speed limit is 50 km/h. There are good reasons for it, so please respect it.

Statistics also show that speed often is a contributing factor when foreigners crash on motorcycles.

Tunnels

Some tunnels are dark and misty. Slow down when you approach the entrance.

Need for rest

Riding a motorcycle in Norway is immensely fun, but also quite demanding. Too many crashes are caused by fatigue and exhaustion. Make frequent stops and get enough rest.

Freedom to roam

The public right of access to land is important when it comes to recreational activities in Norway. You can walk wherever you wish and camp wherever you want on uncultivated land. You can spend the night under the open sky or put up a tent, though not closer than 150 metres to a house or cottage. There may be local restrictions.

Please tidy up after yourself, and remember that it is forbidden to light a fire in or near forests from 15 April to 15 September.

PS! There are also many regular campsites.