Trail Rallies 2026: Motorcycle Adventure Riding in France

Trail rallies have become one of the most popular phenomena in the French motorcycle world. Part adventure, part touring, these events take you through incredible landscapes while testing your off-road riding skills. You don't need to be a Dakar pro: these rallies are open to all levels. Here's your guide to getting started in 2026.

What is a Trail Rally?

A trail rally is a 2 to 5-day route on roads and tracks (forest paths, mountain passes, river crossings) with GPS navigation (digital roadbook). No timing, no rankings: the goal is to finish the route and enjoy. Organizers provide the GPS track, and you ride at your own pace with a group or independently.

Each evening, the bivouac gathers all participants: meals, music, sharing stories. It's the community spirit that makes these events special.

Major French Rallies in 2026

Alps Adventure (June)

The most famous French trail rally. 4 days in the Southern Alps, between 2500m passes and perched villages. Start in Gap, finish in Barcelonnette. About 800 km with 60% off-road. Registration: ~350 EUR (meals and bivouac included). Limited to 300 participants.

Pyrenees Trail (September)

3 days in the Pyrenees, from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Varied landscapes: beech forests, highland pastures, Pyrenean passes, Catalan coast. More technical than Alps Adventure with rocky sections. ~600 km, registration ~300 EUR.

Raid Suricates (October)

The big trail riders' meetup! Organized by a famous French motorcycle YouTuber, Raid Suricates gathers up to 1500 participants for a festive weekend. Route adapted for big adventure bikes (GS, Africa Twin, Tenere) with few very technical sections. Exceptional community atmosphere.

Other Events

• Transalpine Run (July): 6-day Alps crossing, for experienced riders
• Ardeche Adventure (May): 2 accessible days, ideal for beginners
• Corsica Raid (April): Corsica by trail, breathtaking scenery

What Bike to Bring?

Trail rallies generally accept any bike capable of off-road riding. The most popular:

Preparing Your Bike

Preparation is crucial. Key checks before a rally:

1. Tires: fit dual-sport tires like Mitas E-07+ or Continental TKC 70
2. Protection: skid plate, hand guards, crash bars
3. Suspension: set it for off-road (preload, rebound) based on your equipped weight
4. Levels: oil, coolant, brake fluid — all must be at maximum
5. Repair kit: inner tube, tire levers, pump, patches, zip ties, wire

Registration

Registration opens generally 3 to 6 months before the event and spots sell out fast. Follow organizers on social media to catch the opening.

Check Your Bike's Specs

Before heading out on an adventure, make sure you know your bike's exact specs: wheel axle torque values, fluid capacities, service intervals. With L'Atelier, find all this data in seconds and leave fully prepared.