D 4 Road Through Col de Menté and Col de la Clin in the Pyrenees

The D 4 road is located in the southern part of France, within the Midi-Pyrénées region, traversing the Pyrenees mountain range. This mountain range forms a natural border between France and Spain and is known for its rugged terrain and elevated passes. The road ends near the village of Lez and crosses two notable mountain passes: Col de la Clin at 1245 m (4,085 ft) and Col de Menté at 1349 m (4,426 ft). The Pyrenees are well documented for their challenging mountain roads, making this route a relevant choice for motorcyclists seeking varied elevation and moderate curviness. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of the article.

The D 4 road extends approximately 16.4 kilometers (10.2 miles) and features an asphalt surface rated at a quality level of 4.1 out of 5, indicating a generally smooth and well-maintained pavement. The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 1.83 on a scale where 3 represents extreme curviness. Riders can expect a mix of gently curved and moderately sharp bends, suitable for a dynamic yet manageable ride.

Regarding lane configuration, the road predominantly consists of two lanes (about 86%), with a small portion (6%) being single-lane sections. The width of the road is mostly wide (about 82%), with some middle-width (10%) and narrow (6%) segments. Approximately 43% of the route passes through inhabited areas, which may require riders to adjust speed and riding style accordingly.

The elevation varies significantly along the route, starting from a low point of 558 m (1,831 ft) and reaching up to 1340 m (4,396 ft), with the highest point near Col de Menté. This elevation change contributes to the road's appeal for riders interested in mountain pass experiences.

The D 4 road crosses two mountain passes that are significant both geographically and for motorcycling. The first is Col de la Clin at 1245 m (4,085 ft), a lesser-known pass that provides a transition through the Pyrenees. The second and more prominent pass is Col de Menté at 1349 m (4,426 ft), which is well documented and has a dedicated Wikipedia page in French. Col de Menté is a popular destination for cyclists and motorcyclists alike, known for its challenging ascent and scenic surroundings within the Pyrenees.

Both passes contribute to the road's mountain character and offer riders a combination of elevation gain and varied road geometry, enhancing the riding experience.

The D 4 road is a mountain pass road, which implies potential seasonal closures or restrictions, especially during winter months when snow and ice can affect safety. While specific closure information for motorcycles is not explicitly documented, riders should anticipate possible winter closures or limited accessibility during adverse weather conditions. It is advisable to check local traffic and weather updates before planning a ride on this route.

Currently, there are no tolls or entrance fees associated with the D 4 road or the mountain passes it crosses. However, toll conditions can change, so riders should verify the latest information before traveling. For general information on road tolls and fees in France, the official French government website provides comprehensive details: Autoroutes France.