In the South Tyrolean Alps, more and more sensitive habitats are falling victim to the onslaught – overtourism is no longer just a buzzword, but a reality. What brings prosperity to the locals also brings them unwelcome consequences. So the provincial government is trying to tackle the looming traffic gridlock with innovative ideas. One of these is “DuoRide” – the ride-sharing service for motorcyclists.
Before you read, please note: this post was translated with the help of Deepl.
If you find any errors – please have fun first and then give me a hint.
The tourism industry is a major driver of South Tyrol’s economy across all sectors. There are over 250,000 hotel beds available in the province, with over 37 million (!) overnight stays recorded annually *. That generates quite a lot of activity, so both positive and critical encounters are bound to occur. And while guests enjoy life to the fullest (literally), this can sometimes make things difficult for the locals.
Managing large visitor flows in a smart way is one of the major challenges in the Alpine region. At some popular destinations, such as the Seiser Alm or Lake Braies, efforts are being made to address this through mandatory reservations or vehicle quotas. Now, the Provincial Tourism Office is introducing another surprisingly pragmatic and quite charming measure to reduce traffic on the mountain passes:
In the future, motorcyclists in South Tyrol will be required to ride in pairs.
The approach is simple: if we can increase the number of passengers per vehicle, the number of motorcycles on the mountain passes can be reduced.
The organizers have named this pilot project, which is set to launch in the Vinschgau Valley in the summer of 2026, DuoRide.
At the heart of this ride-sharing platform for motorcyclists is an app that asks users about their desired routes, estimated travel times, preferred riding styles, and other details, and then matches riders with passengers.
A bold idea, given the reputation motorcyclists have for loving their freedom. To ensure that individual riders remain the exception, however, the project is supported by various measures.
DuoRide –
A New Approach to Ride-Sharing
A covered parking lot for motorcycles that are not in use is being built right next to the former customs building at the Reschen Pass. The lot, which offers up to 30 parking spaces, is equipped with sturdy steel hoops for securing the motorcycles; locks and chains will be provided upon request. An additional twelve motorcycles can be stored in lockable containers. The entire cost of this project is being covered by the Provincial Administration’s Mobility Resort.
The DuoRide area at the Reschen Pass
Matching with someone on the DuoRide app and riding together on a motorcycle entitles you to generous discounts at partner hotels: riders pay 75% of the standard rate, while passengers pay just 50%. As an added incentive, the app offers discounts at participating restaurants – specifically for both riders AND passengers.
But that’s not all. The DuoRide app also lets you book free day trips on an electric motorcycle, guided by locals or those familiar with the area. A visit to the Stelvio Pass, for example, becomes a special experience – without the driving challenges or the environmental impact.
DuoRide logo for partner businesses
If the pilot project proves successful in the summer of 2026, there are plans to extend the initiative to the Dolomites as well. Especially there, in the sensitive area of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, the hope is to alleviate the burden without the need for new bans or restrictions.
It remains to be seen whether the motorcycle community will embrace this offer. In my view, the extra weight of a passenger and the limited space for luggage are the biggest hurdles to this idea. And, of course, not everyone feels comfortable riding on the back of a stranger’s bike right from the start. Nevertheless, “Sharing is caring” has never sounded more fitting than in April 2026. What’s more: As a driver already contracted to drive one of the electric Stelvio taxis, I’m really looking forward to the first bookings.
The free DuoRide app will be available in all major app stores starting in April 2026. For more information about the new South Tyrolean ride-sharing service for motorcyclists, visit the official website at www.duoride.bz.it.
Additional
Links
- DuoRide South Tyrol
The official website listing participating hotels and businesses - Venosta Valley
The natural and cultural region of South Tyrol - Traffic Report South Tyrol
The current traffic report - Moppetfoto
Also photographs motorcycles with a passenger
Perfectly matching:
A message from your rear brake
2026 – What’s Coming, What’s Staying?
Dolomites 2024 – New restrictions
New for 2023: One-way regulation on the Stelvio Pass
A message from your knee pad
