Route d'Arles-sur-Tech to Coustouges Pont de Riumajor Motorcycle Ride

The Route d'Arles-sur-Tech to Coustouges Pont de Riumajor is situated in the southern part of France, within the region of Occitanie, close to the border with Spain. This road crosses the Pyrenees mountain range, known locally as Pyrénées, which forms a natural border between France and Spain. The route begins near Arles-sur-Tech and ends in the village of Coustouges, located at an elevation of approximately 821 meters (2,694 feet). The road traverses a mountainous landscape characterized by river valleys and viewpoints, making it a notable passage through this part of the Pyrenees. An interactive map showing the road section discussed here is available at the end of this article.

The road extends for about 15.8 kilometers (9.8 miles) and features a moderately twisty alignment, rated at 1.81 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme curviness. The surface is asphalt with a quality rating of 3.6 out of 5, indicating a generally good but not perfect riding surface. The road width varies, with about 71% of the route being wide enough for comfortable two-way traffic, and the remaining 28% of the road having a medium width. Approximately 21% of the road consists of single-lane sections, while two lanes cover about 61% of the route. The road passes through inhabited areas for roughly one-third of its length, including several settlements such as Route d'Arles-sur-Tech, Route de Coustouges, and Avenue Jean Jaurès.

The elevation along the route ranges from 358 meters (1,175 feet) at its lowest point to 821 meters (2,694 feet) at its highest. The road features variable speed limits, with maximum speeds set at 30, 50, and 70 km/h (19, 31, and 44 mph respectively), reflecting the changes in road geometry and inhabited areas. Riders should be prepared for these speed adjustments, especially when navigating through the more twisty or narrow sections.

This route runs alongside two rivers for a significant portion of its length. La Quère river borders about 72% of the road, covering approximately 12.1 kilometers (7.5 miles), while Le Tech river runs adjacent to about 16% of the route. Both rivers contribute to the scenic and natural appeal of the area. Additionally, the road passes near two viewpoints, offering riders opportunities to stop and appreciate the surrounding mountainous landscape of the Pyrenees. These natural features enhance the riding experience by providing varied terrain and visual interest.

The road is part of the Pyrenees mountain range, a well-known destination for outdoor activities including motorcycling. Riders should note that the road surface quality and width vary, and some sections pass through inhabited areas, requiring attention to local traffic regulations. For more detailed information about the rivers along the route, see La Quère and Le Tech. The Pyrenees mountain range is described in detail at Pyrenees. This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below.