Exploring the Übersaxner Straße: Motorcycling the Rankweil 3122 Route in Austria

The Übersaxner Straße, officially designated as Rankweil 3122, is situated in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. The road begins near the town of Rankweil and winds its way through the Bregenz Forest Mountains, intersecting the Laternsertal valley for a portion of its length. The route is positioned in a region characterized by alpine terrain, with elevations ranging from 486 m (1,594 ft) at its lowest point to 1,126 m (3,694 ft) at its highest. The road’s proximity to the Laternsertal valley and its passage through the Bregenz Forest Mountains make it a distinctive choice for riders seeking a blend of mountain and valley riding. An interactive map showing the full route of the Übersaxner Straße can be found at the end of this article.

The Rankweil 3122 covers a distance of approximately 16.8 km (10.4 miles), with the majority of the route classified as wide (about 71%) and surfaced with high-quality asphalt. The road is moderately curvy, offering a mix of gently winding sections and more pronounced bends, making it suitable for riders who appreciate technical but not overly demanding routes. The surface quality is generally very good, providing reliable grip and comfort for motorcyclists. The road alternates between one-lane (about 61%) and two-lane (about 7%) segments, with the remainder varying in width. Approximately 53.6% of the route passes through inhabited areas, including settlements such as Brosi and Übersaxner Straße itself, while the remainder traverses more remote, mountainous terrain. The road’s elevation profile and passage through the Bregenz Forest Mountains ensure a varied riding experience, with occasional viewpoints offering opportunities to pause and take in the surrounding landscape.

One of the notable features of the Übersaxner Straße is its alignment along the edge of the Laternsertal valley, a lesser-known but picturesque area in Vorarlberg. The road also crosses the Bregenz Forest Mountains, a subrange of the Alps known for their forested slopes and traditional alpine settlements. Along the route, riders will encounter several viewpoints, providing panoramic vistas of the valley and surrounding peaks. These natural attractions, combined with the road’s technical layout, make the Rankweil 3122 a worthwhile destination for motorcyclists interested in both riding and sightseeing. The proximity to Rankweil also allows for easy access to local amenities and services before or after the ride.

The Übersaxner Straße is open to motorcycles and is not subject to any permanent closures specific to two-wheeled vehicles. However, as with many alpine roads in Austria, temporary closures may occur during winter months due to snow or adverse weather conditions. Riders are advised to check local traffic updates before planning a trip, especially outside the main riding season. The road features a range of speed limits, typically varying between 40 km/h (25 mph) and 100 km/h (62 mph), depending on the section and proximity to inhabited areas. There are no tolls or entrance fees currently required to use the Rankweil 3122, but toll conditions may change in the future. For up-to-date information on road tolls and entrance fees in Austria, consult the official ASFINAG toll information website.

When planning a motorcycle trip on the Übersaxner Straße, consider the variable road widths and the mix of inhabited and remote sections. The high-quality asphalt and moderate curviness make it accessible to riders of varying skill levels, though caution is advised in narrower segments and during periods of increased local traffic. The route’s elevation changes and mountain setting can result in rapidly changing weather conditions, so appropriate gear is recommended. For those interested in exploring further, the nearby town of Rankweil offers accommodation and dining options, while the Laternsertal valley and Bregenz Forest Mountains provide additional opportunities for outdoor activities. An interactive map of the Übersaxner Straße is available below to assist with route planning and navigation.