Imagine living in a town 10 minutes from a road that rides like the perfectly designed supermoto track. For the residents of Bolzano, in northern Italy, this dream for most is a reality. Rising nearly 1,400 meters from the valley floor, Mendola (or Mendel for German speakers) twists and turns for nearly 15km before reaching the quaint ski resort. Riding it countless times one summer had me thinking it might be the best supermoto road in Europe.
Mendola is best approached from the Bolzano side travelling west on the SS42 towards Ronzone. The lower elevation snakes through vineyards before wrapping itself on the cliff face. For the most part the road is clearly marked with two lanes until it reaches what I call the ‘gallery’. This single lane section was cut into the rockface with only a low wall marking it’s edge. The Gallery seems to be under constant repair from landslides as it cuts across the cliff face to the final climb. As of 2017 the asphalt is fresh and but the upper gallery is still being repaired.
After each run we found ourselves chatting to a different group of bikers waiting for a clear run of the pass. At times it’s difficult to decide whether to look at the jaw-dropping views over the low stone wall across the valley or focus on throwing your handlebars down round the next corner.
Why is it perfect for supermotos?
Our 450cc supermotos were beating local riders on bikes with twice the power. 600cc+ motorbikes are no match for supermotos on the tight hairpins and where straights aren’t long enough to leave the motards eating dust!
Is it worth the detour?
Absolutely, Bolzano is the capital of South Tyrol with wine and cuisine to die for! And many of northern Italy’s famous passes are all within a day’s ride…even on a supermoto. And even if you’re not on a supermoto, I definitely count it as one of Europe’s best motorcycle roads!
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