Chamonix Annecy loop

There’s absolutely no need for an excuse to ride any of the roads in the Chamonix region, as they’re pretty much all wonderful. But if there so happens to be a reason for riding a particular route then why not take it? It’s a talking point if nothing else…

- Dave Manning

When the resurgent Indian Motorcycle brand was developing a new model, it didn’t do what the whole world was expecting when it set out a route to use in its development, and line up a section of die-straight American highway, or allocate a stretch of Route 66 to perfect its version of the American dream.

No. It plotted a route that takes in some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe, and that involves some rather sketchy Tarmac and more than a handful of very tight turns and steep sections of road that many people would have two thoughts about undertaking on any bike, let alone a fully-equipped American touring machine!

Indian’s thoughts were clear – if a bike can be developed to be able to tour, and to undertake the most extreme of Europe’s road network, then that bike would not only be a better product, but it would also be clear to those potential buyers in the European market that the new machine could be used for everything that they may wish to undertake, and not just suitable for that cliché of the American straight road. Indian was, unsurprisingly, correct in its assumptions. But not only was it of benefit to the end product (and to the manufacturer’s reputation!), but it also lays out a route that is a true joy to ride for anyone on any form of bike. And it makes for an interesting topic of conversation, too, whether that be when on the route or when enjoying a hot chocolate, cold beer or a neat Braulio or Suze at the end of the day.