It’s important to choose the right season when travelling to Mongolia. The country has extreme seasons, and the riding conditions can change a lot depending on the time of year.
From what I experienced, and from what locals told me along the way, the riding window in Mongolia is actually quite short.
The Short Riding Season
For motorbike travel, the most realistic season is late June to early September.
Outside of this window the weather becomes much less predictable. Winters are extremely cold, and in spring many areas are muddy from snowmelt.
During the summer months you generally get:
- warmer temperatures
- more stable weather
- accessible dirt tracks
- easier river crossings
That said, even summer is not completely predictable.
Mud After Rain
One thing I quickly learned is that rain changes everything.
Tracks that are easy to ride in dry conditions can turn into extremely slippery mud after a storm. I had a few days where the smartest decision was simply to stop and wait for the ground to dry a bit.
If you push too hard in muddy conditions you risk crashing, damaging the bike or getting completely stuck.
Cold Nights (Even in Summer)
Another thing that surprised me was how cold the nights could get. Even during the main travel season, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. When you’re camping, you really notice it.
Having:
- a warm sleeping bag
- proper layers
- a windproof jacket
makes a big difference in how comfortable your evenings are.
Sudden Storms
Weather can change quickly on the steppe. A clear morning can turn into heavy rain or strong wind within a few hours. When that happens, riding conditions can change just as quickly.
Want to know more about riding a motorbike in Mongolia?
In my full Mongolia motorbike guide I explain:
- the exact time of year I travelled
- how weather affected my route decisions
- how mud and storms influenced riding days
- how to plan daily distances depending on the season
👉 Explore the Mongolia Motorbike Guide
