Britain's Best Motorcycle Ride? - NC 500

[@patchthesinclair5896]

As a native of the north my top tip for the NC 500 is :- Do it anti-clockwise. And if you're coming into Scotland from the Midlands or further south use A1 and A68

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Patrick! Appreciate your tip and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@sarge2665]

Totally agree about doing it anti clockwise, as while the east coast is fantastic the west coast is just on another level 👍🏻

[@jerrywinder7052]

What a fabulous video, my wife Marion and me are booked up to do it on our Tigers in June, can't wait!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Jerry 🙏 hope you both have an amazing time - great choice of bikes! 😀👍

[@peterlivermore2177]

Really enjoyed that compilation, one of the best overviews of the NC500 I've seen at a nice relaxed pace. Thankyou!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Peter! Really appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@theworldsbonkers]

Really enjoyed your video, thanks for taking the time to put it together and upload.I am traveling with my son July 2024 he has recently passed his bike test so its going to be a bit of father son bonding on an epic trip.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much, we’re glad you enjoyed it! Sounds like you’re going to have an amazing time with your son - hope the weather is good for you! 👍😀

[@johntouzel3298]

Just discovered you two and wanted to say how much I've enjoyed your fabulous footage of your beautiful journey and so professionally filmed, excellent. You are lighthearted, good fun people enjoying life on your bikes, luv it cool dudes. x

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much John! We really appreciate your comments 👍 we do enjoy life on our bikes, it’s nice to hear that other people enjoy it too! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@roddyhankins8642]

Great video loved it like being in Scotland. Have ridden Scotland many many times .the guy on guitar was at our hotel in Gairloch a few years back as long watched your tour of Wales very interesting and place in know very well st Martins in hereford. Thankyou cracking job guys

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Roddy! Glad you enjoyed it - we appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@alexfaulds7070]

What a smashing video, thoroughly enjoyed watching your journey, some absolutely incredible views and scenery. Look forward to watching your future adventures on the bikes.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Alex! The scenery is spectacular and the weather made it even more so! Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@muzzab32]

Chuffed to see where I live number one in the magazine :0) enjoyed your video very much.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

NZ - God’s Own Country! 👍😀

[@lordpunter6188]

Really enjoyed that, brilliant music to accompany a great tour..... thanks !

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@maxflight777]

Your tip about Kinlochleven … is excellent! Also the Commando memorial and nearby museum … worth a visit. Lest we forget.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thank you! It did add a really nice detour and we couldn’t do the trip without seeing the memorial - it’s so important that it is remembered - thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@spudgunson]

Thank you for the ride. I did the 500 in October 2020 (anti clockwise) and the weather ranged from wet to torrential!! It was still a fantastic route and one I will be doing again. Everyone has their favorite bit and for me I loved the Loch Maree. Beautiful. Like you I had heard too much about the Applecross pass which made me apprehensive, but the reality is quite different. I had rain and rode it through cloud but the views heading down to Tornapress were amazing. Stay safe and happy trails 🏍

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Andrew! You’re right, even in the rain it is a fantastic route 👍 such a pity you had clouds over Applecross it really is stunning at the top! I guess we were so fortunate with the weather when we did it ☀️thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@jsrides2065]

Now that is a awesome ride too I’m liking your videos and I’ve shared on my Facebook page for others to view 😉👍🏻🏍💨💨💨

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! We appreciate your sharing and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@stevebaldya]

I've done it twice, once clockwise and once anti-clockwise. I prefer anti-clockwise, the East Coast can be a little boring, doing it this way you finish on a high in the Highlands and the West Coast. Last September we did it in 2.5 days which is fun, but way too fast to enjoy all the scenery !

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Hi Steve, you’re right about the east coast but I’m glad we did the west coast in the great weather ☀️! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@stephenreid1527]

Awesome mate, thanks for taking the time to do this. I've done some of the NW500 but one day hope to get it done. Again Thanks for taking the time to do this and share. NC500.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks a lot Stephen! It is certainly an awesome ride - hope you get a chance to do it all soon! 😀👍

[@johnoneill7962]

The NC500 in Scotland has got to be one, if not, ‘the’ most beautifully stunning, challenging and thrilling motorbiking routes in the UK. Unfortunately, out of a group of 4 bikers back in 2019, I was the one (on an extremely tall BMW F850GS Adventure) who had misfortune of getting caught on the actual bend of the 2nd hairpin on ‘bealach na ba’ when I came face to face with a huge motor-home coming down. I couldn’t believe my bad luck - but I am glad to say I eventually managed to get to the top. It is an amazing ride which every fairly competent rider should add to their list of rides!! Thanks for your videos - they are a life saver during Lockdown (3) in Northern Ireland. They are a great psychological escape to better times and places ahead. Cheers guys!!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much John! We couldn’t agree more! 👍 we were hoping not to meet anything on the hairpins 🤞🤞thankfully we were lucky 😀 we’ve often thought how challenging it would have been meeting a big vehicle 😱 at least you made it to the top in one piece. We’re glad our videos are helping you pass the time during this interminable lockdown 😩 - at least freedom is on the way! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@johnoneill7962]

It was a hot day and at that point the day got an awful lot hotter LOL Ride safe - ride well

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

😂😂🥵🥵☀️☀️

[@banderah-dag-rideforyourhealth]

What an awesome video series!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much 🙏 glad you enjoyed our adventures! 👍😀

[@PaulSwiftUK]

Lovely video! I drove a lot of these roads years ago with a mate before they called it the NC500, but I've since learnt to ride a motorbike, and desperately want to get up there and ride them. I love Scotland.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Paul! If you’ve driven the route you’re going to absolutely love riding it - you must go back and definitely do it on two wheels! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@tackleberrytravels]

Looks fantastic..... and you are right, take your time to enjoy the sights...

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Theo! We like to enjoy the journey and the destination! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@BlackThor15]

What an amazing video and above all how fantastic is to watch your wife riding her own bike! NC 500 definitely on my bucket list and watching your suggestions of places to visit just added more to my list. Thank you for sharing, well done!! 👍👍

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Nelio! Sue was originally a pillion but decided she wanted her own bike - she’s never looked back! Thanks for watching and commenting! 👍😀

[@francishughes5205]

Fabulous thanks. Doing it this september

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thank you Francis 🙏 you’ll love it 👍 just hope you get some good weather - it always helps! 👍😀

[@FREE_PUREBLOOD333]

Love the route..did it a few years back..well the nc767..plus some more too. Loved your filming, content and music. Lovely to see a couple riding together and enjoying it all together.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much JG! We really appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@markmortimer4145]

Great movie showing the best of Scotland for bikers. Thanks.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Mark! We absolutely loved Scotland and when you get the weather we had there’s no better place! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@merseymoto9388]

Excellent! We have ridden them routes lots of times on a MT09, Triumph Tiger 800 Xca, BMW R1200RT, and most recently, my BMW R1200 Adventure. Every ride on each bike was amazing, and booked again for May this year, all being well. Cracking video too, thank you for sharing your adventures....

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! You must know that route like the back of your hand! 😀 it certainly is a stunning ride - hope you get a chance to do it again in May🤞thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@Longstride]

Thanks! That was a very enjoyable watch, nicely done!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! 🙏😀👍

[@graemekelly9950]

Beautifully put together video, iv travelled the pass a few times now and absolutely love it, can't wait to go back again this year with my family in the camper van.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Graeme! Really appreciate your comments - hope you manage to get back and enjoy it with your family! 👍😀

[@graemekelly9950]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries, I love torridon and little places like badachro and laid, also out by torridon there's a little place called Diabaig where you get the pass of the wind road you should check that out if you have not seen it

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks for the tips - hopefully will be back at some time to do those! 👍😀

[@justynazwierz9628]

Thank you for this video. My husband planning to go there on bike in June. I am just really happy for him. We went together with kids in mototorhome to Isle of Skye. Scotland is just amazing. Really helpfull video. All the best for you

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Than you Justyna, we’re glad you enjoyed it 🙏 we hope he has a great trip - if the weather is good there’s no better place to ride! 😀👍

[@Rob-on5tz]

In a world that has suddenly stopped turning due to Covid, it's great to come along on your trip. Having binged watched the likes of TMF and other Bike Vloggers doing the NC500 it's great to escape here on youtube to get some kind of normal back. Thanks and ride safe.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Rob! We know the feeling of binge watching You Tube videos!😂 we all can’t wait to get back out and tour again! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@barryholland4082]

Looks fantastic! It must rate as one of the best. Top of my bucket list when I can get back to UK from New Zealand, post Covid! Great video - Thanks!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Barry! We definitely think it is one of the best 👍 are you on holiday in God’s Own Country? 👍😀

[@barryholland4082]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries Came here 12 years ago for a couple of years and stayed!! Have lots of family in UK so, other than for Covid, visit UK regularly. Do you know of any good value motorcycle hire companies in UK/Scotland who would hire out a GS or similar for a week, to enable us to do this ride? Cheers

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

@Barry Holland I love NZ! You’re very lucky - been a few times - it’s a brilliant biking country 👍 I’ll put a post on my BMW forum and ask for you! 👍😀 just had this response- www.highlandmotorcyclehire.co.uk Also Motorrad Central, Dalkeith 👍

[@davidsmith7201]

Hey folks what a great video.I went to Scotland in September rode to Edinburgh then loch lomond to Glen Coe.Your videos brought back so many great memories of my solo trip ,then you Stopped at the same castle then when you went to the cairngorms the first layby you stopped at to take a photo. I did the same freaky! So i now decided to then watched your other videos and i live near the super sausage,local bike shop wollaston bmw really freaky!! great job guys you really cheered me up today if every near Salcey forrest i'll buy you a coffee!! Happy biking

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much David! That’s fantastic 😀 amazing coincidences 😆! We really like Wollaston BMW - may see you at the Super Sausage sometime! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@nbo9092]

Thank you for an amazing video you have created. It reminded me of my very precious memories of some of those roads that I traveled from California to ride there ride in 2017. Even though it rained for three days none stop but hey this is the beauty of Scotland. I would defiantly do again again. Britain is beautiful and Scotland is the jewel in the crown.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Nasser! We’re glad it brought back some great memories 😀 you came a long way to ride it a pity about the rain 🌧! But as you say, that’s Scotland for you 😂 we definitely agree - it is the jewel in the crown 👍 thanks for watching and commenting! 😀

[@SiegfriedKeizer]

I really enjoyed this. I hope to ride this when the pandemic is over with my wife. Thank you. Job well done. Greets from the Netherlands. Siegfried Keizer

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Siegfried! Glad you enjoyed it - it is stunning especially when you get good weather ☀️ hope and your wife get a chance to ride it when it’s not crowded 🤞 best wishes to all in The Netherlands and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@philipsharpe6716]

I just watched your NC500 video and found it very enjoyable and subscribed. Riding the NC500 by motorcycle with my two sons is on my bucket list. Being from the US, it looks like it may be a while. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Philip! We did a short trip the US in 2019 and loved it - can’t wait to go back 👍 which part of the US are you in? The NC 500 would be fantastic with your sons - hope you get to do it soon! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@philipsharpe6716]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries I'm in northern Alabama. We're just a few hours away from the Smoky Mountains. There is a lot of good riding with amazing views. The Blue Ridge Parkway is very popular and the roads are excellent. Deal's Gap (The Tail of the Dragon) is also in that area and is an eastern US motorcycle Mecca. If you're interested in off-road, there's plenty of that too.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Philip! Heard a lot about The Tail of the Dragon, one of the UK’s top motovloggers , Richy Vida rode it on his US tour - looked amazing! It must be great for you with all those fantastic roads close by! 👍😀👍😀

[@philipsharpe6716]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries there is a lot of good riding. I can't wait for it to warm up a little. If you're ever in this part of the world, it's a great area. We also have Rocket City - Huntsville Alabama if you're interested in space history.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Philip! It sounds a great area to ride! 👍😬

[@uponthepegs]

Well done - a great edit. ‘Distilled’ all the key interests from the series. Clearly some good weather had. Always fun to ride with your bestie too. More singing in future please....🎶😂😂

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Phil! I’m so lucky to have a wife who shares my passion for riding 😀 and who enjoys a drink and a singsong! 😂😂

[@samuelharrison7189]

I watched every second of this. I love motorbikes and have been off mine for 6 months coz it's busted, so I'm getting a new one. And videos like this are amazing to watch. Post more, they're ace

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Samuel! Hope you’re back on 2 wheels soon 🤞 we can’t wait to get back on the road again - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@nickbenfell4327]

And no. 1 is New Zealand South Island. I am so lucky to live in this riders paradise. That bigger photograph is of the road alongside Lake Pukaki to Mt Aorangi (Cook) just a fantastic blast. My favourite lakeside road ride is alongside Lake Wanaka on the way to Haast.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

No 1 and deservedly so 👏👏👏 the first big trip I ever did was a South Island - in fact NZ was the reason I started riding! Thanks Nick! 👍😀

[@tartanblackcountrytourist]

Loving this compilation edition.. I am marking all the coffee stops.. Still one of the best nc500 vlogs. Because its about the happiness of companionship over the demands of the roads. I keep revisiting my favourite vlogs just to keep me from lockdown blues. WOWSERS my friend.. Happy days ahead soon. Love from me and my sunshine Paula.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

What a lovely note. Thank you, David. The trips are all about the experience for us and that includes the scenery, people and, of course, the coffee stops, as well as the bike journey. We enjoy watching videos of those hardy bikers who stay in the saddle for hours without a break and cover the same miles in 2 days which we would take a week to do 😀. I don’t think our bodies or caffeine requirement would allow us to do what they do though. Thank you for watching our adventures, with Paula. We hope to get out and record many more miles of smiles very soon. Sue & Bri ☺️🏍🏍

[@1ridgy]

Having watched dozens of vids over the last couple of months on the NC500 (some good others not so good) I found yours the most informative. I’m doing a solo run at the 500 in mid April, Covid permitting and found your vid and tips invaluable. I’ve subscribed to your channel and it being Sunday intend to binge on your vids. Keep safe 😎👍

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! Really glad you found the video useful 👍 hope you manage to beat COVID-19 and get it done in April 🤞thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@1ridgy]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries I’ll have a maximum of 185 miles to a tank then running on fumes, would that be a problem around the NC500 or are there petrol stations en route (within my max radius)?

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

@@1ridgy That range should be OK but in some places petrol is thin on the ground - even with big tanks we always filled up regularly just so we wouldn’t get caught out! 😀👍

[@1ridgy]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries many thanks

[@CC-iq9jl]

Absolutely fantastic video loved it from the first second to the last. Thank you...

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much - we really appreciate your comments! 😀👍

[@tonywarren8283]

Great channel , I've just discovered it today and have spent several hours watching it , and i think will do as time goes on . Your experience and thoughts of the the different sites aswell . Very enjoyable .

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Tony! We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@davidhall39]

One of the best videos of the NC500.Quality of the video was superb.The fact that you showed every stop and accommodation was very useful for route planning.Definitely on my list of "to do"s when this pandemic is over.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much David - we really appreciate your comments! Glad you enjoyed it and hope you get a chance to do it soon!🤞😀👍

[@GregFyans]

I echo the comments about doing the east coast first, just get it out of the way and finish on a high. It's worth stopping off at Cromarty, there's a little coffee shop called Slaughterhouse and it does the best coffee I've ever had, and afterwards you can take the tiny little ferry across to continue your journey. Great video, makes me want to go back and do again once we're allowed.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Greg! Good tip about the coffee house 👍☕️ we love our coffee! Like you we can’t wait to go back! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@bill-2018]

I don't know. I think I'd want to see some of the Pictish things, standing stones and such on the eastern side.

[@ThatBikerGedi]

Hey everyone, I recently uploaded the first video of my London to Northern Norway Summer 2020 tour on Honda CBR1000RR 😃🏍️ It is my first KZbin video so any attention would be much appreciated! 🙏📹 I hope Covid won't slow us down and that we'll all be able to tour somewhere this year 😉

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Wow! That sounds like a brilliant trip! 👍😀

[@hkviking]

Hey MMD! NCC is a miniature of my home country Norway. Here we have fjords, mountains and hairpin bends throughout the country. Keep making videos you are an inspiration to others.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Hans - we really appreciate your comments! We’ve heard so much about your beautiful country- it certainly looks stunning- maybe one day we’ll do a tour there! 👍👍😀

[@hkviking]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries You are more than welcome to come👍😀. I drive a bike like the one your wife has ordered. Triumph Tiger 900 GT PRO. a wonderful bike. She's going to have a great time on this one. It would have been nice if we could meet for a coffee and a trip together. When will she get her new powerful machine.👍😀👍😀

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Hans! She’s hoping for delivery by March 🤞 we can’t wait to get out and tour again- COVID-19 permitting! 👍😀

[@gestoandlane]

WE're looking forward to riding in Norway at some point in the future :D

[@OffGridMac]

Great video brick top 😁👍🏻👍🏻

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Cheers! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@neilbicknell8029]

First time I’ve watched your channel. Really enjoying it. I chose 2020 to return to biking after 30 years, what a year to chose. Tbh it’s one thing that has kept me sane. Loving re-learning about the tech and the riding. Short tours this year 🤞 - Scotland after. Stay safe.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Neil! You’re right- what a year to return to biking 😂 still, better than not riding 👍 it certainly keeps us sane! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@CHOPPERish]

I feel you, exactly the same here! 👍😎

[@derekiwanczuk2867]

Looks amazing glad you both enjoyed it and great videos love watching them take care.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Derek! As you can see we both loved it - such a beautiful country - thanks for watching! 😀😉

[@andrewtofts7884]

Many thanks for the video MMD, it brought back great memories. I first did the NC500 in May 2017 with my partner and we loved it; did it again at the end of October 2020 (got it in just before Lockdown 2), on my own this time as my partner couldn't make it; a bit cooler this time but not a problem and it was quieter. I absolutely love this route and will definitely go back again as there are many different parts to explore. Is it Britain's best MC ride, most probably; I say that because there are still lots of routes in GB that I haven't ridden that I need to in order to confirm it. Having said that, I can't imagine anything else with that amount of stunning scenery and brilliant roads on a 500 mile route. Thanks again and ride safe; cheers, Andy.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Andy! I think it’s certainly the best route we’ve ever ridden in the UK (so far!) as you say the scenery is stunning especially if you get the good weather we had ☀️🥵! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@martmead]

Great Video lovely pictures and scenery and also good music choice to compliment, I would definitely like to ride that myself one day, Thanks for sharing

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Martin! Definitely put it on your “to do” list - we’re glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@johnmackay3458]

well that was a good trip.weather was great(hot and sticky) a bit cooler once we've pass further up towards Durness.it was over cast. at we cooled off a bit did all the runs you did and more 1524 miles in all. next year we'll go again but to the isle of sky but no further than ullapool.we'll see how things pans out. we didn't have much problem with traffic.most moved over for us so that was nice of them. the worst bit was going to applecross. cars etc were to close to each other and yet passing places were about a 100 yard apart so why they never give themselves that gap,would have problems for other cars coming up. not very bright some of them. lol

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

That’s brilliant John! Really glad you had a great trip 😀 I think we need to get to Skye👍! We were pretty lucky on Applecross - not that much traffic but it would ruin it with 4 wheeled vehicles not thinking it through 🤔😀😂

[@johnmackay3458]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries we're going again this June, but only as far as ullapool. but going round the isle of Sky.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

@@johnmackay3458 sounds like another great trip! 😀👍

[@MeliusinZice]

Thanks for sharing, great editing and really inspiring journey. The NC 500 is now next on my list!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Marc! Hope you have a fantastic time when you eventually get to do it! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@TheSuffolk58]

I've just stumbled upon your excellent channel and have to congratulate you on an wonderful product. Excellent camera work, editing and always entertaining to watch. I'm now looking forward to watching your other videos. I've just treated myself to a GoPro Hero 9, but don't think I'll ever reach your level.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Martin! We really appreciate your comments and we’re glad you enjoyed our trip 😀 good luck with the Go Pro 9 - it’s a great product! Editing your footage takes a lot of time but it’s rewarding when it comes together! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@dennismawson5974]

Good to have bumped into you both yesterday in Middleton in Teesdale. Hope you enjoyed the ride over to Brough. Enjoyed your re-mix of your trip over the north coast 500, brought back many memories of our many trips into that area and looking forward to our own trip on Wednesday. Have a safe journey home today and we hope the weather is kind to you. Regards Dennis & Hazel

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Dennis! It was great to meet you and Hazel 👍 glad you enjoyed our NC 500 re-mix 😀 and thanks for your tip about the B6276 - what a brilliant road! Have a great trip to Scotland! 👍😀

[@WhiskyJackR]

Did this route on my Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special last October. Loved the ride over to Applecross, like a miniature sample of the Pyrenees switchbacks.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Jack! Must have been quite a ride on a Harley over the pass! 👏😀 thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@denhill56]

Hi Guys, You nailed it, loved the video and went on to watch all 6 full videos, thank you for posting helped a lot planning our trip for this year.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Barry! Really pleased it helped you with your planning and hope you get to do it soon 🤞 thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@carlton683]

Brilliant trip it’s made my day special watching this video .best wishes

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Anthony! We really enjoyed the trip - nice to know you appreciated watching it! 😀😀

[@marco-58]

Fantastic vid, so glad i caught this. I sometimes go Alps, Italian Coast, Amalfi, or Spain, France etc, on my trusty ZRX 1200R, camping, but will now consider NC500. After iv'e booked the weather.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Marco! It’s a brilliant route but please book the weather first 😂 and go off peak! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@brianstewart3240]

Hi MMD yes it is one of the best roads but is getting very busy at time especially bank holidays and school holidays, if they ever get back. if you take the official route you miss the fort william leg which is stunning. Addition we do is Fort William to Mallaig ferry to Skye through Skye over the bridge and pick up your route at Auchtertyre.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Brian! You’re absolutely right I definitely wouldn’t do it in peak time 😱 we didn’t get to do Skye last time but it’s on the list! Thanks for watching! 😀🙁

[@scottprior4451]

This was an excellent, and one of the most informative videos of the NC500 I’ve seen, thoroughly enjoyed

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Scott 🙏 we’re really glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@soulsnotsmiles336]

I am a midlife crisis motorcyclist ( as JC would say) , or at least I will be, at 53 I am very late to the party, but have just passed cbt and theory first time) Have to say I am finding your videos very very enjoyable. I had a couple of friends do the NC500 in 2019 but their words didn't come close to doing it justice as they described it. Pretty sure this will be my first 'big ride' when I get the training wheels off. Thank you for sharing and please keep posting

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! Welcome to the Midlife Motorcycle club😀 I was 50 and Sue was 53 when we started - as you can see we absolutely loved the NC500 and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed - good luck with your test 😀👍🤞!

[@slipthegreyhound]

I’ve just done it, and to be honest I was a little disappointed. It was VERY busy, literally 1000’s of camper vans all over the place. Trying to get pass them on the single track roads became a chore and unending. Maybe pre Covid it was less busy, but since almost everyone is taking holidays at home it’s busy.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

You’re right! Timing is everything - luckily we did it off peak and before everyone decided to holiday in the UK 😟 it certainly wouldn’t be the same rammed with camper vans 😱

[@chrisrobinson79]

Just bought a new triumph rocket 3 my wife and I want to do that trip. Can’t wait. Thanks again.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thank you Chris! The Rocket 3 is an awesome bike have fun on the NC 500!👍😀

[@jimsmith4611]

Been riding these roads for years and years and years and it defo deserves it's No 2 place. Although it wasn't called the NC 500...!!! Defintely the best but then I'm biaised cause this is where I live and ride all the time.. The borders also have a really good number of roads worth visiting too.. This side of the border of course.. The road from the green wellie to Oban via the A 85...!!! Brilliant and one of my favourite roads to ride.. Loch leeven and EElin Donnan is how it's pronounced. Not complaining just keeping you right.. Always keek my pants at the hairpins up at Apple Cross. The first time I rode it was on my BMW 1200LT going down the way and very nearly dropped it atthe first bend... OOOOOPPPHHH...!! You should stop at the Applecross inn as the food there is really good..Thanks for this...!! Having watched it I just can't wait for these bloody restriction to end and get back up there...!!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Jim! You’re so lucky to live and ride in such a beautiful country and to get to do it before it became the “NC500” and got so popular! Thanks for the correct pronunciations 😀! Would have loved to eat at the Applecross Inn but it was too busy when we arrived 😩 Thanks for watching and commenting! 😀👍

[@HelioDiamant]

One of the best videos describing a motorcycle tour that I have ever seen. Congratulations, and thanks for the time inversion in making this video. It helped me much in preparing a trip to Scotland that I am planning for whenever COVID is not a problem anymore.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Helio! We appreciate your comments - we hope you get a chance to do the tour soon 🤞thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@tonebonetones]

Thanks for uploading this, mate, I just got back into riding a bike after a small break of 40 years lol. I used to love Scotland, and went every year fishing, mainly the Far North and North West, and..oh....Loch Maree.....once one of the world's best sea trout lochs, along with the Loch Maree Hotel ......but this route is sure appealing for me to go back.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! Wow! That’s a hell of a break 40yrs 😂 must be time for a return visit! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@neillindsay5889]

im your mate .i last rode a bike in 1981 ,just bought a new honda 500

[@Senna-xi1gr]

Brilliant tips & great video cheers 👍🇬🇧

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! 👍😀

[@mansellmovies]

Loved your video. My better half and I have done the NC a couple of times by car. Awesome journey. Both times It's a pity the weather turned on you both, but it clearly never dampened your spirits . Overall the weather was "Better than Scotland's usual". 🤔 A good overview of the route. Well done and thanks for your upload. Best wishes. Paul. 😎

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Paul! We really didn’t mind the weather turning because of the brilliant sunny days on the fantastic West Coast! ☀️👍 thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@williamhudson3208]

Fantastic trip and film. Thank you. Well done. We’ll be there soon.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much William! Glad you enjoyed it - hope you have a fantastic trip whenever you get the! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@jimdocherty5494]

Done most of these roads over the years. This year(fingers crossed) i hope to do the loop in a week. Great video.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Jim! Really hope you get to do it one go 🤞such a great trip. Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@bazmasterson5567]

Great vid. I think Mrs Midlife deserves a special mention; what a cracking lady..! I was 2 days away from doing this route last year, before Scotland announced the September lockdown. This has resolved me to do it as soon as restrictions are lifted. Rain or shine!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Baz! I’m lucky to have such a special “cracking lady” as a biking buddy! I hope you get to do the route soon 🤞it’s stunning! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@delwilliams9042]

Enjoyed watching the original multi part videos, so was nice to see the condensed version. Let's all look forward to better days, and maybe new red tigers, eh Sue 😉

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Del! We can’t wait for better days 🤞 and red tigers! 👍👍😀

[@mcfugle]

Brilliant edit of your NC500 tour (i watched the main series) very well done two very confident riders thanks for sharing

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much John! Wanted to entertain people during lockdown! Thanks for watching! (Again!)👍😀

[@UncleWally3]

As a Canadian, I’d love to able to ride the NC 500 again sans tourists as thick as midges. I hope the local riders that have access to it during this horrible pandemic can enjoy!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

You’re right Walter! I think we’d all like to ride it sans tourists! As a Canadian ( beautiful country!👍) When did you do the NC 500?

[@eldavieo]

Love how you added kinlochleven into the mix , such a pleasurable bit of road to ride along

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thank you! It’s certainly worth the little detour 👍 we appreciate you watching and commenting! 👍😀

[@grahamdenton5635]

Definitely one of the best rides apple cross in fantastic food Definitely go outside midges season there a nightmare Great video.great to see the wife riding with you Makes great memories well done

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Graham! Thankfully we avoided midge season 😄 we absolutely love riding together - as you say, it makes great memories - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@iannolan3884]

Really enjoyed watching this video. I’ve done some of the routes and stopovers you chose. Your commentary is spot on. Well done and thanks for sharing

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Ian! Glad you enjoyed it and hopefully it brought back some great memories! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@iannolan3884]

I’ve only just round your channel ( sorry ). I’ll be watching a few more of your rides. Keep ‘em coming

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Ian! As soon as lockdown is over we’ll be back on the road 🤞👍😀

[@SheCharlie11]

One of the best diaries I have seen, and I've seen a few. A friend and I are setting off on this route next Monday, glad you noted fuel stops too, thanks a lot. Bring on the camping :-) Ps. Loch Doon castle near Ayr is a fantastic stopover too.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thank you Charlie! Hope you have a great trip! Thanks for the tip about Loch Doon 👍😀

[@mototakahe836]

The video section grey skies Kessock Bridge to Granton -on -Spey are our lasting memory of Scotland complemented with pouring rain.We did 3 holidays to Sotland and the best weather we have ever seen was in your video. Thank you for letting us see what we missed. Loved the singing sequence.Take good care of yourselves with this virus mutation.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! The weather was a real blessing 👍 most people never see such much sun in Scotland (as you can confirm!) That night in Dornoch was one of our favourites! 😂😂😂

[@andrewgibbs5135]

I’m new to your channel, my first video ! Really enjoyed it, you captured the pleasure of touring by motorcycle and the beauty that is Scotland, perfectly. Finishing off with some excellent tips ! Many thanks 👍

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Andrew! We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@ronyoung26]

I've recently heard about this route and was pleased to watch the video which was a great watch. I'd love to do this and hope to persuade a few friends too, to make it worthwhile! Thanks for the great introduction!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Ron! It’s certainly one of our favourite routes (possibly THE favourite!) hope you get a chance to do it - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@ronyoung26]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries Thank you for your comments too! I have already emailed the link to a few biking friends and hope they watch your video and are interested in doing this trip maybe in 2022; finger's crossed! Thanks again!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

😀😀😀

[@lloydallin4706]

Wow! I'm surprised you say the Pass of Cattle is the steepest in the UK I'd have thought Hardknot and Wrynose pass was far steeper and certainly a more technical ride. I've been lucky enough to ride the NC500 a couple of times as well as linked it up with other rides I've done and I still ride round a corner and go Wow! even when I know what to expect. Thank you for posting the video really enjoyed it and gave me something to look forward to in these hard times. Ride well, stay safe. Lloyd

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Lloyd! I think you’re right about Hardknott Pass having a steeper and more technical incline 👍 I just Googled Pass of the Cattle and it said it was the steepest starting from sea level! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@johnmackay3458]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries try going up to tan hill from Keld,that is steep and a very sharp bend and the only way round is you need to be on the other side of the road or no can do.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

We went to Tan Hill but I think it was from Reeth - obviously the easier route! 😂

[@johnmackay3458]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries went went up twice.the last time we decided no more. if someone else coming down your stuck.my wife was worried that we'd come off.its that steep.coming no problem going up.lol try it some time.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

@@johnmackay3458 maybe next time! 🤞

[@jackjackson7577]

Done it many times, done it before it had a name. I am hoping to do it again this year, last time I took in the Orkneys and intend to do that again. Fantastic.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Jack! You definitely did it at the best time- before it got really popular 😀 we’d still love to go by! Thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@jackjackson7577]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries I love your videos, sensible, informative but definitely not boring.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

@@jackjackson7577 Thanks so much! We try to make them as interesting as we can! 👍😀

[@neilmurrell281]

Applecross is tough but stay in the right gears and take it easy its fine. Hardknott and Wry Nose is worse. Great video folks we only got up once last year but we did the 500 a few years before it was a thing and some of the roads around the top of Scotland are challenging particularly when you get an A road into single track in a blink of the eye and back as quick again. Made me wish I was there. Once again great video.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Neil! Spot on about the right gears 👍 still to get round to the Hardknott 😱 one day..... thanks for watching and commenting! 👍😀

[@justynazwierz9628]

ok will pass this to my husband we did Hardknott with Volvo few years back it was. dramatic I decided to walk instead sitting in a car 30 % level if I remember in one moment

[@andyp1117]

Great vid, this is definitely on my bucket list

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Andy! You’ll love it! 😀👍

[@johnlangfield3532]

Great video. I have done the NC500 but not on the same tour. We normally stay in the same hotel near Dornoch and ride out each day. Maybe now my son has just got a touring bike I might persuade him to come and do the NC500 on a week's tour if we ever get out of lockdown.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks John! That would be a great “family “ tour! Something to look forward to after lockdown 🤞! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@stevepritchard1331]

Great video. One of the reasons we moved here in 2006, before the tourist board made it a thing. Please leave nothing behind and take only memories. Sadly, the the thousands of stickers, create a problem every year, especially on road signs giving information. Glad you enjoyed. Haste ye back

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Steve! We absolutely loved our tour - it’s such a stunning country 😀 no wonder you wanted to live there! I guess you wouldn’t have been in favour of the tourist board creating the NC 500 🙁?

[@stevepritchard1331]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries The good points are of course, bringing more money to the area, but the narrow roads are not built for the volume of traffic and some of the inexperienced large motorhome drivers. At the height of Summer, the roads do get very congested.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Think you’re right Steve - some of those Motorhomes are huge and far too big for the single track roads - maybe they should just allow motorcycles! 😂😀👍

[@henryhartley9993]

Definitely my number one, love Scotland....

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Henry! We have to agree with you! Brilliant scenery and lovely roads - what’s not to love - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@ganggreene72]

Driven the road from very north Thurso to Clanryan, best motorcycle experience ever

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

@@ganggreene72 😀👍👏

[@garethedwards3725]

@@midlifemotorcyclediaries Hi would it possible to have the route you taken a download would be great .

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Hi Gareth, several people have asked the same question! Sadly, we don’t have a download 🙁 we tried to use Garmin maps but it was too complicated so I just planned a day to day route based on the stopovers (in the notes under the video) and programmed the sat nav every day! 😀👍

[@muddyharbourrider7340]

What a great well edited video, I think the Scottish Tourist Board will be after you to use it. It’s so good that Scotland will be even more rammed with tourists this year, Covid permitting! I did it last year over 4 days (and I live near Edinburgh) and it was too fast, I think you two paced it very well, you’re so right you have to take your time and soak it in! I’ve just shared your vid with my biking pals to get their adventurist juices flowing! Thanks again and take care. 👍

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! We like to take our time when touring (besides my back won’t take long rides any more!) thanks for watching and taking the time to comment! 👍😀

[@simonmanwaring3768]

Well guys that's the best vlog I've seen on the NC 500 , you did a great job capturing the scenery, great tips for stops , and certainly wet my appetite for this ride !!! Plz covid go away !!!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Simon! We appreciate your comments 👍 and as soon as we can we’ll be back on the road! 👍😀

[@reljoy]

Brilliant! Loved it! I also really like how you lower the music volume when you speak making it easy to hear you clearly. Thanks mate.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Roger! We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@BikerDarren24]

Actually really enjoyed that more than others I've seen guys, great banter and great videography/editing, so lucky you's two have each other and can tell you's are meant for each other such great spirits and constantly bouncing off each other, really kept me involved. Lived here my whole life and ashamed to say I've still never done this route yet. Would love a partner or friend to do it with like you's but looks like as per I'll be doing it myself, thanks guys really loved every minute of it. 👌😉

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Darren! Really appreciate your comments 👍 I’m so lucky to have married someone who shares my passion for biking! It’s what we love to do - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@gestoandlane]

You can always tag along with us Darren when we go ;)

[@BikerDarren24]

@@gestoandlane Wow that would be awesome 👌

[@johnmackay3458]

good video. we're going soon but only half of it. from tees side ,Dumbarton , fort William , Ullapool ,drumbeg then onto thurso ,john'o'groats back to fort william ,dunbarton then home.believe it or not it was shorter run from johnny to fort william than heading the other way and avoiding silly prices, £240 is a but much swallow for one night and that's not at The Ritzes.lol

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks John! Hope you have a great trip 😀 we absolutely loved it! 😀👍

[@brianmckenna773]

Really enjoyed that had intended to do it last year anti clockwise hoping to do it this year fingers crossed .

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Brian! We’d love to do it anti clockwise too! Hope you manage it this year- thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@rossanoripamonti9302]

as soon as I saw your video I immediately signed up, you are great !!! I have recently been in London and I hope to buy my fourth adventure bike !!!!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Rossano! We appreciate your comments and thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@12v4biker5]

Great tips - the Kinlochleven Loop is a great addition on the route. We done it in 2018. Check out the series I'm currently putting up. There's a trailer, and the first epsiode of our 2019 trip to Skye and beyond. I'll be adding an episode a week (four in total). Nice rear shot ascending Bealach na Ba!

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much! We’ll check out your tours - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@remu2763]

Absolutly amazing, thank you very Much. From Canada.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Mok! We appreciate your comments and best wishes to Canada a beautiful country! 👍😀

[@docholliday2364]

That was wonderful thanks to you both .

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Doc! Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching! 👍😩

[@mick998r]

Wonderful video. I hope to copy your route with friends then with my wife 2 up. She's passed her test 20 years ago but fell out with bikes when our first child came along, brilliant to see the both of you experiencing it on 2 bikes. Thank you. 👍

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Mick! Sue used to pillion in the old days (although not for long!) but since she passed her test she’s never looked back - we love touring together for us it really adds to the trip 😀 hope you have a great time on the 500 - thanks for watching! 😀👍

[@RaveyGravyDavey]

Did it last year with a mate , fantastic . So good I felt guilty leaving the Mrs at home . So just for her ( 😉) I've booked to go again this September . Including a days detour round Skye this time and will come back a more scenic route after Loch Lomond to spice it up . Enjoy all your videos , hope you get chance for one or two more this year 🤞

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much David! Great to hear you have a valid reason to do it again 😉 Never been to Skye but it’s supposed to be amazing! We definitely want to get out and tour again as soon as we can! 👍😀

[@bogusmyleene6989]

Nice! Very very nice. Great job on the video. I need to get over their and try those IPA’s.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Myleene! Always love my IPAs 🍺😉 thanks for watching and commenting! 👍😀

[@owenfarmer4197]

After spending most summers pinging across or through the Alps or Pyrenees on the way to France and Italy I did almost exactly this route in about 1998 or there about. The weather was stunning and I’d put it on a par with pretty much any European trip I’ve done. Very different experience to the Alps, don’t know why it’s like now but the roads in Scotland while going through amazing scenery were quite poorly maintained. Might be much better now for all I know. Great video as always. The biggest difference for me is the cafe and bar culture in the Alps and Pyrenees which I didn’t find I Scotland. Not saying it’s not there , just that I didn’t find it.

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks Owen! I think you’re right about the roads 🙁 and also the cafe culture in Europe is much better 👍 Scotland is not quite geared up for it yet! Thanks for watching! 👍😀

[@suebunchtaylor3656]

You were so lucky with the weather. Beautiful scenery and enjoyed your company even if it was only virtual. Xxx

[@midlifemotorcyclediaries]

Thanks very much Sue! Lovely to hear from you 😀 we did have fantastic weather and it made the trip even more amazing! 😀👍xx