europe trip

[rixchard]

Le spouse has convinced me we should fly over and rent a bike next year. Mostly Northern Europe (Belgium, Holland Germany, etc..). We are thinking of taking two weeks and just riding hither and yonder. So I am wondering, weather wise, what is the best time of year to ride.

[c00k1e]

Now.
Well actually it all depends what kind of weather you like to ride in.
Most people like sun - its predicted to be 35deg C tomorrow here in the UK.
Personally I like winter sun best - less flys on the visor!

[vvk]

Le spouse has convinced me we should fly over and rent a bike next year. Mostly Northern Europe (Belgium, Holland Germany, etc..). We are thinking of taking two weeks and just riding hither and yonder. So I am wondering, weather wise, what is the best time of year to ride.

These days are sweltering!
End of September, beginning of May seems best.
Of if you're lucky 20 degree C summer days.
Who can forecast what's on next year?
I'd be makin' tons if I could do that.

Have a look-see on Wikipedia for average temps.
Usually they mean nothing.

Anyway, passing Amsterdam, gimme a holler!

[rixchard]

More than anything else we want to avoid rain.

Amsterdam is most assuredly on the itinerary

[Malki]

May can be nice, but can have rain, June is prone to the odd heavy thunderstorms which tend to be over quickly, July and August are the warmest, but also the busiest, September is nice, I've seen snow in Holland in October which took me by surprise.
Bottom line is, you are never guaranteed it dry, but in summer, rain rarely lasts for long. You would get away with light 2 piece waterproofs, should you decide to carry them for the odd shower.
Are you taking your own riding gear or renting it?

My preference in the height of summer is to wear BMW lightweight gear and carry the very light waterproof liners. Other months I take my waterproof Cordura two piece suit and it doesn't really matter what the weather does.

Maybe nearer the time you can tell us all about your plans, but may I suggest at this early stage to have a look at Maastricht in Holland as a base, then you have a handful of countries only a very short ride away.

[pozo_izquierdo]

Le spouse has convinced me we should fly over and rent a bike next year. Mostly Northern Europe (Belgium, Holland Germany, etc..). We are thinking of taking two weeks and just riding hither and yonder. So I am wondering, weather wise, what is the best time of year to ride.

The others commented on the weather already...

In case you don't trust the rented bikes...
http://www.motorcycleservices.com/Shipping/ShippingQuote/

These people ship your bike (from Canada only).

Regards