Before starting this trip, I was honestly quite nervous. I had never really ridden a motorbike before. I watched a few YouTube videos to understand how shifting gears worked and tried riding once with help from a local. That was about the extent of my experience.
Still, Mongolia had been on my mind for a long time. The idea of riding across endless open landscapes felt too good to ignore. What is life without a little risk?
Mongolia is a destination that many adventure riders are curious about. You often hear stories about wide open landscapes, long distances between towns and riding on dirt tracks instead of paved roads. Because of this, some people wonder whether travelling across Mongolia by motorbike is realistic, or only something for very experienced off-road riders.
In reality, riding in Mongolia can be challenging at times, but for many people it is also very achievable with the right preparation, mindset and expectations.
Is it possible? → Yes
Is it easy? → Not always
Is it dangerous? → Only if unprepared
Is it worth it? → Absolutely
What Riding in Mongolia Is Really Like
Riding across Mongolia is very different from a typical road trip.
Within the first twenty minutes of riding, I already had to cross a river. I slowed down and stopped the bike, staring at the water for a moment. I had barely figured out how to shift gears properly, and now I was supposed to ride straight through a flowing stream in the middle of nowhere.
A few locals were nearby. I asked them what to do, hoping for some clear instructions. They smiled, pointed at the tracks disappearing into the water and basically told me I would have to go for it myself.
I took a deep breath, chose a line and rode in. The crossing itself was short, but my heart was racing the entire time. When I climbed up the opposite bank, I realised something important: riding in Mongolia is not about perfect technique. It is about staying calm, adapting to the situation and trusting you can do it.
Outside the main towns, you will mostly ride on:
- dirt tracks across the steppe
- gravel roads
- sandy sections
- rocky mountain routes
- muddy terrain after rain
- occasional river crossings
There are usually multiple tracks leading in roughly the same direction. Choosing which one to follow is the fun part.
Distances between settlements can be large, and services such as fuel, food or accommodation are not always available on demand. This means planning ahead is important. At the same time, Mongolia is not completely empty. You regularly encounter nomadic families, small villages and other travellers during the summer months.
How Difficult Is It?
The difficulty of riding in Mongolia depends mostly on:
- your off-road riding experience
- weather conditions
- the type of route you choose
- how many kilometres you plan to cover each day
If you follow established tracks and keep daily distances realistic, the trip is achievable for many people with basic off-road skills.
Why Mongolia Is Actually Easier Than Expected
- very little traffic
- multiple track options
- locals help
- wild camping freedom
- small bike that is easy to maneuver
Common Concerns Riders Have
Before travelling to Mongolia, many people worry about:
- getting lost
- running out of fuel
- mechanical problems
- riding alone in remote areas
These are valid concerns, but they can be managed with preparation.
Fuel is generally available in towns and sometimes in small roadside shops or with local families.
GPS navigation works well in open terrain. Locals are often curious and helpful when travelers pass through their areas.
Who Is This Trip Suitable For?
You do not need to be an expert rally rider to travel by motorbike in Mongolia.
It is suitable for people who:
- have basic off-road riding skills
- are comfortable riding for several hours a day
- can handle simple mechanical issues
- enjoy travelling in remote environments
- are willing to adapt plans when needed
For me, Mongolia has been one of the most memorable trips I’ve done.
Related posts
- Motorbike Choice for Mongolia
- Best Time of Year for Motorbike Travel in Mongolia
- Navigating Mongolia by Motorbike
- Mistakes I Made Riding Across Mongolia
Planning Your Own Ride
Planning a motorbike trip across Mongolia involves more than simply choosing a direction and riding. Route choices, fuel strategy, daily distances, bike setup and packing decisions all influence how smooth the journey will be.
In my full Mongolia Motorbike Guide, I share:
- the route I followed
- realistic daily riding expectations
- navigation and fuel planning tips
- preparation advice
- packing recommendations
- lessons learned on the trip
- and much more
If you are planning to ride in Mongolia, this guide can help you prepare and save you many hours of research.
👉 Explore the full Mongolia Motorbike Guide
