Adventure Bike Ride Out: The Black Forest and Swiss Alps
Two riders. Two adventure machines. One unforgettable journey through some of Europe's most iconic landscapes. Featuring our very own Vertu Sales Executives, Christopher Skjelhaug from Vertu Honda Bikes Stockton and Robert Fleming from BMW Motorrad Sunderland.
We asked Christopher Skjelhaug, riding his Honda Africa Twin, and Robert Fleming, aboard his BMW R1250 GS Adventure, to talk about their recent tour through Germany's Black Forest and the mighty Swiss Alps. Between them, they've covered thousands of miles, from pine-lined curves to high-altitude passes, and have hopes for more European trips in the future.
To get started, would you tell us a bit about the trip itself?
Christopher:
"Our route took us from the lush, winding roads of the Black Forest in Germany into the towering passes of the Swiss Alps. This was the kind of trip adventure bikes like the Africa Twin and BMW GS were built for.
The German leg focused on the legendary B500, one of Europe's finest biking roads. Fast, sweeping corners, dense pine forests, rolling hills, it really is pure riding bliss. We did get caught in some rain, so we treated ourselves to a hotel that night! The roads are smooth, well-maintained, and perfect for a spirited pace.
Crossing into Switzerland was when the goosebumps really kicked in. The Africa Twin's adventure DNA came alive on passes like Furka, Grimsel, and the historic cobbled switchbacks of the Tremola (Gotthard) Pass. We definitely felt like James Bond for a moment! Tight hairpins, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning views at every turn.
From the cool, fragrant air of the Black Forest to the thin, crisp atmosphere 7,000 feet up in the Alps, it was a sensory overload. It's a journey I'll never forget, and I'll definitely be back, maybe continuing on into Italy next time."
Robert:
"The trip was incredible, with great company and great laughs the whole way.
We started with the Channel Tunnel crossing, easy and quick, then camped our first night in Belgium in perfect weather. The next day, we rode through Belgium into France, admiring some amazing houses along the way (a sure sign we're getting older when we start commenting on the architecture!).
By day three, we hit Baden-Baden to start our Black Forest adventure along the B500. It rained early on but soon cleared, and we stopped at Mummelsee to soak up the views. We spent another day riding the bends and scenery before crossing into Switzerland.
We only had about a day and a half there, but I wish it had been longer. The lakes were crystal clear, the mountains spectacular - it felt like Scotland multiplied by a hundred! Next time, I'd plan ahead, book hotels instead of camping, and stay in Switzerland for a few extra days. Maybe ride to Italy to see Lake Como and through to the Dolomites!"
How did your bikes perform through the experience?
Christopher:
"The Africa Twin was flawless. Its torquey parallel-twin engine and stable chassis carved through the endless curves of the Black Forest effortlessly. Up in the Alps, its long-travel suspension, high riding position, and 19-inch front wheel gave me the confidence I needed on tight, exposed passes.
Even fully loaded with camping gear, it remained composed and comfortable all day long. For me, it's the perfect 'tall-rounder', agile enough for technical sections and comfortable for the long hauls."
Robert:
"My BMW GS Adventure just soaked everything up. With the 30-litre tank, I never had to worry about fuel stops, and I finished every day feeling fresh, with no aches at all.
That 19-inch spoked front wheel helped the bike tip beautifully into corners, while the Telelever suspension stopped it from diving under braking. The shaft drive was a dream, with no messy chain maintenance, and the low-mounted boxer engine made it incredibly balanced with loads of torque.
The Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) was brilliant too. I didn’t have to touch anything to get the right preload. And on the long motorway stretches, cruise control was a total lifesaver."
Which equipment did you choose for your bikes?
Christopher:
"I ran the Honda pannier system along with Kriega soft luggage and a backpack. Everything worked together perfectly and gave me plenty of space for camping gear. The Africa Twin is made for trips like this: reliable, easy to handle, and comfortable over long distances."
Robert:
"My Touratech panniers were spot-on for camping equipment, and I strapped my tent to the pillion seat and still had loads of space. I also had a tank bag and a Givi top box for storing my helmet when we stopped.
If I did it again, I'd skip the camping, and use hotels instead, to make the bike slimmer and lighter. And I'd definitely plan our return ferry in advance instead of booking it on the fly!"
Which riding gear did you go for?
Christopher:
"I wore the Oxford Rockland suit, which was incredibly versatile for all conditions, whether we were experiencing the cold forest mornings or the hot Alpine afternoons. It performed so well I'd definitely consider Oxford again for my next trip (maybe they'll sponsor me next time!)."
Robert:
"I wore vented trousers and the Oxford Rockland jacket, which was brilliant in the heat, it had loads of airflow. I also fitted a cool seat cover, which made a huge difference on long rides, keeping things comfortable and well-ventilated. A small upgrade that made a big impact."
Any last thoughts about the bike and advice for future mountain pass riders?
Christopher:
"The Africa Twin reaffirmed everything I love about adventure bikes; being capable, comfortable, and confidence-inspiring. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants a bike that can handle both long-distance touring and tricky terrain.
My advice would be, if you're planning something like this, make sure your luggage setup is secure and balanced. Mountain weather changes fast, so flexibility is key."
Robert:
"Riding alongside the Africa Twin showed me how each bike brings its own strengths. The GS is the ultimate comfort tourer, loaded with features and effortless over distance.
My advice? Plan early, book your accommodation in advance, and leave time to explore Switzerland properly. You'll want to stop more than you think, the scenery is unreal!"
What were your favourite moments of the trip?
Christopher:
"The moment that stands out most for me was riding the Tremola Pass, particularly the old cobbled switchbacks winding up the mountainside. It felt like riding through history. The Africa Twin handled it beautifully, and the sense of achievement at the top was unforgettable.
This trip confirmed that the Africa Twin really is the ultimate do-it-all adventure bike. Next time, I'll continue into Italy, that's definitely on the list."
Robert:
"For me, it was the Alps themselves. Standing by those crystal-clear lakes, surrounded by mountains, after a day in the saddle, it reminded me why I love touring so much.
Next time, I'm heading for Austria and Italy. Lake Como and the Dolomites are calling."
Of course, we all feel allegiance to our chosen bike brands. But trips like these are a reminder of what owning a motorcycle is all about; the freedom, the challenge and the unforgettable experiences around every corner.
Whether you're a Honda enthusiast, a BMW rider, or a Ducati racer, the experiences are the same. Check out our bike ranges at Vertu Motorcycles and come and speak with our own motorcycle enthusiasts at your local Vertu Motorcycles dealership. Make the most of our experiences to help you decide on your next motorcycle.