New Jersey is known as the "Garden State" and there are plenty of reasons why it's called that. Unfortunately, the only lasting image that a motorcyclist has is that of oil refineries, industrial complexes and loads of traffic. Be assured though, when you leave the ribbons of highways, a New Jersey motorcycle ride will be on roads less traveled. The motorcycle roads that you will explore in the gardens of New Jersey were born from cow paths, farm access roads, and routes between towns and hamlets that form the patch work of New Jersey, the Garden State.
Of course, those cow paths are now paved and well maintained. But, as you consider one of many unique motorcycle tours in New Jersey, there are some things you just have to know. First there is a distinct difference between North Jersey and South Jersey. The dividing line lies around the Trenton area (The State Capital).
North Jersey is where you will see all of those lasting images that you have embedded in your mind's eye of very industrial areas, busy airports, docks and loads of traffic. But I urge you to get out of the main stream and look for those motorcycle roads less traveled. Princeton, Sandy Hook, Saddle Brook, Morristown, Patterson, Kenilworth and Lodi are all some of the hidden treasures in the Northern extremes of the State.
Southern New Jersey contains the typical farming communities that provide the foundation of the State's its rich agricultural heritage. Haddonfield, Vineland, Millville, Hammonton, Atlantic City, Ocean City and Cape May are some of the locations that bloom with excitement throughout the year.
When you visit New Jersey, be aware that you can't make a left turn off a major road. New Jersey roadways use what are called "Jug Handles". You make the left turn across the major road using a ramp from the right hand lane that crosses back over the main road at a traffic light. It is somewhat safer.
The other item that is sprouting up in the Garden State is "Photo Enforcement Lights". No more needs to be said. Don't mess with these sprouts of modern technology. You'll be getting lots of fan mail from the state and lots of invitations to traffic court.
There is of course, lots of traffic in some unavoidable areas. The most congested intersection in the state of New Jersey is the intersection of Interstate 295, State Route 42 and Interstate 76. This intersection is in the Southern part of the state just outside of Philadelphia, across the Walt Whitman Bridge. But, this intersection is just starting a major face lift that is expected to be completed in 2021. So pack your patience when you visit.
There are plenty of things to see and do in New Jersey. Come and visit the sandy beaches (don't forget to buy a beach tag), visit the State Parks, see the fall foliage in the Northern extremes of the state, and the beauty of the pine barrens in the southern parts of the state, or trace your roots at Ellis Island.
New Jersey has many opportunities for the motorcyclist, give the Garden State a try and you won't be disappointed.