Southwest (Arizona • Nevada • New Mexico • Southern Utah)
The Southwest becomes one of the most active riding regions in January thanks to dry roads, clear skies, and milder winter temperatures. Riders are drawn to desert landscapes, canyon routes, and iconic highways, with Arizona and Nevada acting as winter hubs for touring riders and organised group rides.
January in the Southwest also hosts major motorcycle auctions, dealership events, informal meet-ups, and early-season planning rides, making it popular with collectors and long-distance riders. Route 66 corridors, desert passes, and national park routes remain accessible, though riders should be prepared for colder temperatures at higher elevations.
Best for:
Winter touring • Collector events • Route planning • Scenic long-distance rides
Southeast (Florida • Georgia • Alabama • Texas Gulf region)
The Southeast offers some of the most reliable winter riding conditions in the country. Florida, in particular, sees increased motorcycle activity throughout January, with regional rallies, charity rides, dealership open days, and club meet-ups taking place well ahead of the main rally season.
Riding here tends to be flatter and warmer, with coastal routes, inland scenic roads, and relaxed social events dominating the calendar. Many riders use January in the Southeast as a way to stay active, reconnect with riding communities, and ease into the year before major spring events.
Best for:
Warm-weather riding • Community events • Charity rides • Social gatherings
West Coast (Southern California • Central California • Coastal routes)
While northern and mountain regions may see winter weather, Southern and coastal California remain active throughout January. Riders enjoy year-round access to coastal highways, desert backroads, and urban meet-ups, with a steady flow of dealer-hosted events, group rides, and motorcycle culture gatherings.
January is also a popular month for planning rides, custom builds, and early-season launches, rather than large rallies. Events here often focus on lifestyle, heritage, and brand communities rather than mass attendance.
Best for:
Year-round riding • Coastal routes • Motorcycle culture • Planning & meet-ups
At a Glance – January in the USA
- Fewer headline rallies, but strong regional activity
- Focus on winter-friendly states
- Ideal for touring, collecting, and planning
- Community-driven and relaxed pace
