August 2025 I went on solo motorcycle vacation to Norway for 8 days. While I did document this on Polarsteps, I myself really prefer anything in plain-text format. It will mostly be a travel blog, with a short list of tips (derived from faults I made) for (any) motorcycle trip.

Roads I got some insider tips from someone I met in Hirthals who lives in Hagesund. Which totally changed my experience. In no specific order:

• The E39 from Kristiansand to Stavanger is quite boring, But really fast. When going back home, you can consider taking the Stavanger - Hirthals ferry to skip riding it twice.
• I did not do the detour to the Lysebotn route, which I still regret. It looks stunning from the pictures I have seen.
• Don’t drive the E39 from Stavanger to Bergen. Take the 13 via Odda instead. Much more scenic.
• Don’t take the ferry at kinsarvik, but take the Hardangerbrua.
• I took the 7 from Bergen to Voss, which is quite nice. But the E16 is probably better.

Preikestolen I did the “famous” hike and wanted to give the following remarks.

• If you are in good cardiovascular shape, this hike will be very easy. Can be done on sneakers. I have even seen people carrying hiking pole’s, which is nonsense.
• Can be done in 3hrs including a 45min break at the top.
• Parking is very expensive, cheaper for motorcycles. The amenities are very nice, so I don’t mind it.

Even if you’re not going on any sort of hiking vacation, but are in the area, I would still recommend it. Other hikes such as

• Kjeragbolten
• Besseggen Ridge
• Trolltunga

Are all considerably more challenging and need some planning. Preikestolen gets you 80% of the fun, for 20% of the work :)

Finally, without any specific order, a list of mistakes I made on this vacation because I was young (just turned 22) and stupid, and some tips:

• Norway is quite wet late August. Plan accordingly, I did not.
• Note that a motorcycle chain wears (and stretches) faster at the end of its lifespan. For goodness’s sake, go with fresh tires and a properly serviced clutch and chain.
• While some ferry’s run quite frequently, others do not. Check the schedule beforehand.
• Sign up for a AutoPass account to make tolls easier.