Hi, I am looking into taking a trip as far north as it is sensible, Arctic Circle, Nord Cap(?) and around the Baltic Sea this summer.
The general plans are to go up the west coast of Norway and then back down the east coast of the Baltic Sea , in Finland, and then maybe St Petersburg, if safe to do so on one bike and not too much hassle regarding travel documents to get into Russia.
I have spoken to some Russians that reckoned against going on one bike into Russia, while some other reckoned it would fine(!?)
I have the option of taking either an R1100R BMW or my old HD FXRS.
The later would be my preferred option as there's bound to be less of them than Beemers, but I am concerned about taking a belt driven bike on gravel roads.
Can anybody let me have any information regarding the condition of the roads?
Some people I have spoken to reckon that it is tarmac all the way, while some other information are for a lot of gravel.
Also, what would be the best time of year to undertake this type of trip regarding weather, rain, mosquitoes?
What's the weather likely to be?
Should I take waterproof summer gear?
Is it likely to be cold? Should I take warm winter clothing?
I am expecting to camp as much as I can.

Looking at the mileage, I will probably take 4, maybe 5 weeks over the whole trip, tailoring as I go.
Any tips on what's to not miss, what to avoid, any comments will be welcome.
Cheers,
Claude

Hit Nord Capp twice, both times on Harley. First time in August, second time in June.
Weather behind Polar Circle- absolutely unpredictable- one week can be +25 and next week around 0. Both times for me was around 0. Same with rain. Don’t trust extended forecast.
Due to overall temperature in Scandinavia I would suggest go end of July or beginning of August.
Roads are fine. At north of Norway not excellent but still tarmac. In Russia even better than in Sweden, absolutely new tarmac from Kirkiness-Murmansk-St. Petersburg. (done last summer)
Russia- don’t listen horror stories. People are friendly and helpful. Driving safe- alcohol 0 policy by law.
Gravel- don’t think you will find the gravel road on your path except road construction sections and 100 meters at NordCapp
Waterproof gear definitely yes, winter clothing- I’ve managed without it.

And check out Ride Norway | All you need to know for your motorcycle trip to Norway for - well - Norway info.

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Reg. St P. The main road to St P from Helsinki is just a boring road (maybe there are better options?). St P is of course an interesting city. I dont understand your considerations reg Russia. You need visa which is a bit of a pain, but with visa and some extra time on the border, its like any country (in terms of security).