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Moto Ride Routes - A Structured Itinerary

Forth Rail Bridge

If you haven't guessed from the cheesy title, this week's Ride Route focusses on a couple of Central Scotland's most well-known structures - The Kelpies, and the Forth Rail Bridge. If you're into your photography, this is a must-do.

As always, the route is 125 friendly, and can be enjoyed by riders of all experience levels. If there's anywhere you would like to see Ride Routes visit in the future, let us know in the comments on West Coast Moto's Facebook page.

Keep reading to discover the nuances of the route, or access the full Google Maps file here.

As mentioned, we will be starting our route in Cumbernauld. The Asda in the town centre is an excellent jump-point, offering easy access to the B816 to Bonnybridge.

Leaving Cumbernauld via the main dual carriageway, we pass through Wardpark towards Castlecary, before looping over the top of the M80 heading towards Allandale. The B816 runs parallel to the Forth and Clyde Canal until you reach Bonnybridge, where the road forks off to the East.

As you head along the B816, keep an eye out for boats on the canal, as it is still in regular use by various houseboats.

When we reach Bonnybridge, take the second exit onto the A803 heading towards Falkirk.

Forth and Clyde Canal

The Kelpies

Continue to follow the A803 into Falkirk, where it will turn into the A9 as you approach the town. Stick with the A9 through Falkirk until you start seeing signs to your left-hand side for The Kelpies.

This is our first stop of the route, and is a worthwhile photo opportunity if you fancy some artistic snaps of your bike. When you reach the roundabout at Helix Park, take the first exit towards the Kelpies, and follow the road until you reach a spot you like.

The Kelpies are based on Scottish folklore, specifically a myth regarding shape-shifting water creatures that would appear on land as horses.

There are designated parking areas and a small café if you're planning on staying for a while - otherwise, hop off your bike, grab a quick snap, and continue on your way.

Leave Helix Park the way you came in, this time taking the first exit at the roundabout heading towards Falkirk Stadium. Take the first exit again at the next roundabout onto the A904, and cross over the M9 onto the A905 following signs for Skinflats.

Carry on along the A905 until you reach the roundabouts above the M876, where you will be taking the second exit at the second roundabout onto the Kincardine Bridge. If you've been following our Ride Routes series, you'll have already encountered the bridge and A985 leading down to North Queensferry.

Joining the B981 as you enter North Queensferry, follow the Main Street right to the end for a hidden gem of a photo location. The road is signposted as a dead end, but for a very good reason. As this is still a residential area, be mindful of the locals, and be respectful when taking photos from this spot.

View from North Queensferry

When you've taken some photos, jump back on your bike and we'll begin the ride back to Cumbernauld.

Leave North Queensferry the way you came in, rejoining the A985 for a short distance before heading North towards Crossford and Saline on the B913. Continue to follow the B913 until you reach Dollar, where we will be cutting left onto the A91 along the beautiful foothills of Stirlingshire. 

The A91 is a straight-shot through Tillicoultry and Alva, so be mindful of your speed. Follow the A91 as it banks south just before the Wallace Monument, passing through Springkerse and Bannockburn before meeting the M9. Cross over the M9 onto the A872 through Denny and onto Bonnybridge. Take the second exit at the roundabout, and you'll find your wheels pointing back towards Cumbernauld, on the same road we started off at.

Venture back into Cumbernauld in search of coffee and snacks, or head home from this point - the choice is yours!

We hope you've enjoyed this Ride Route. If you've used our secret spot in North Queensferry for a photo or two, be sure to send them in!

You can download the route here.