The ADV Cannonball Rally invites riders to cross the country on a 3,550-mile rally route. The event begins October 6 in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina and runs for 9 days, finishing in Redondo Beach, California.
From the Creator
Although the ADV Cannonball is open to all kinds of motorcycles, adventure bikes will have an edge on some of the rougher roads. Organizer Aaron Pufal states that, “This route isn’t for the faint of heart, but riders will appreciate the hundreds of hours of planning and pre-running.” Participants will navigate by GPX tracks from checkpoint to checkpoint, riding paved and optional non-paved roads. Pufal, an experienced rally planner, asserts that riders will experience “a highly curated and painstakingly vetted motorcycle route.”
Cannonball Rally Particulars
Riders will all stay in the same hotel each night and leave at specific times the next day. Scoring is based solely on reaching checkpoints along the route, with bonus points available for extreme checkpoints and other achievements. Although they would be helpful, neither competition nor rally experience are required. Rally staff will assist newbies in understanding how the rally works and each rider can decide their level of competitiveness.
You’re On Your Own
Whereas it might be tempting, using a chase vehicle or support crew in the ADV Cannonball will cost a rider points or possibly disqualification. However, participants are free to call for roadside assistance or stop at a motorcycle shop if necessary. Rider safety is paramount, and riders are encouraged to help one another along the way.
The Finish
Pufal notes that the rally ends at the Portofino Hotel & Marina, “A staple finish line for many cannonball rallies throughout history.” The 2025 ADV Cannonball Rally has a limit of 30 participants, with enough already signed up to ensure the event will take place. “Come have a good time,” says the rally master.
There’s much more info regarding hotels, rules, motorcycle transfers, and how to enter at the ADV Cannonball website.
Photo credits: ADV Cannonball Rally
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