For the long haul Head to: Tarkarli Drive time: 6 hours Distance: 520 kms (approximately) Route: There is not much to see in Tarkarli, but the drive down along the Konkan coast is serene, breathtaking and filled with loads of moments. Tarkarli is just like Goa, sans the commercialisation. With a lone MTDC resort and homestays, it&rsquo;s best you plan your stay in advance. The beach strip is clean and the waters around make for a quiet retreat. Head here for a longer weekend haul. <img alt="" src="http://images.mid-day.com/2012/sep/80488054.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 339px; " /> <img alt="" src="http://images.mid-day.com/2012/sep/Tarkarli-Beach_12.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 359px; " /> Take the middle road Head to: Igatpuri Drive time: 3 hours Distance: 140 kms (approximately) Route: If green is your favourite colour, sign up for this one. Miles of foliage and grassy hilltops make this a refreshing ride. Cloud cover and smooth roads add to the wow factor. If you dig a longer drive, head all the way to Bhandardara, though the road gets bumpier thereon. <img alt="" src="http://images.mid-day.com/2012/sep/Igatpuri.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 314px; " />u00a0 Igatpuri Head to: Dahanu Drive time: 3 hours Distance: 116 kms Route: This route is ideal for highway driving, if one takes NH8. Good roads, pleasant scenery, less crowds and above all, clean shorelines ensure this stretch, from start to destination, is a relaxed escape. u00a0 Head to: Alibug Drive time: 4 hours Distance: 110 kms (approximately) Route: This route is easygoing, with plenty of rustic views that make for a leisurely experience. A huge benefit about driving down to Alibaug is that in case you don&rsquo;t wish to ride back, you can load your bike on to the ferry, to return via the sea route instead. <img alt="" src="http://images.mid-day.com/2012/sep/23M101703.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 291px; " /> An aerial view of Dahanu&rsquo;s coastline. Pic/ Nimesh Dave. THhe tool boxu00a0 &gt; Check if your tyres have adequate tread depth (not less than .3mm) &gt; Check if your tyre pressure is good &gt; Anticipate your stops &mdash; avoid sudden braking &gt; Don&rsquo;t lock your breaks too hard &gt; Wear a full face, good-quality helmet &gt; Wear gloves and sturdy footwear (avoid sandals or open shoes) &gt; Avoid shorts, wear trousers or jeans &gt; Morning is the best time for biking; avoid riding at night fall &gt; Check your bike lights &gt; Even during day-time riding, keep your lights on low beam as it improves visibility by 20% &gt; Don&rsquo;t overload your bike &gt; Keep a 12-hour gap before you set out on the road after consuming alcohol &gt; While overtaking, make sure you are careful and make the other driver aware that you plan to overtake him/her The quick and the adventurous Head to: Matheran Drive time: 2 hours Distance: 55 km (approximately) Route: It&rsquo;s a great, diverse stretch to experience the Western Ghats, namely the Sahyadris. The lush hills and stunning topography will make for a great viewing as you ride through Matheran&rsquo;s forests and dirt tracks. Head to: Malshej ghat Drive time: 2 hours Distance: 128 kms The route: Post the heavy September downpour, driving down to Malshej Ghat via NH3 to Bhiwandi and then towards Murbad promises to be a heady experience. It&rsquo;s a big hit with weekend trippers, so account for stoppage time. The MTDC accommodation is good but ensure you book in advance. theguide@mid-day.comu00a0 <img alt="" src="http://images.mid-day.com/2012/sep/08G123606.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 253px; " /> The circuitous route to Malshej Ghat. Pic/ Sameer Markande

Kaas a spell

The rains gods have obliged, finally. As your bike awaits a challenging ride into the scenic sunset, The Guide has handpicked some of the best weekend routes to experience an adrenaline rush, with picturesque views to boot. So, go ahead, create your own milestone!

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