Ready for a vibrant, potent cocktail that’s as fun to look at as it is to drink? Meet the Blue Motorcycle.
This electric-blue drink is a stunning twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea and packs a serious punch.
It’s the perfect choice for party hosts looking for a memorable, Instagram-worthy beverage or for any cocktail enthusiast eager to try something bold and new.
What’s in a Blue Motorcycle Cocktail?
The ingredient list is nearly identical to a Long Island Iced Tea, with two key differences that give the Blue Motorcycle its signature color and taste.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| Vodka | ½ oz (15ml) | A neutral vodka works best. |
| White Rum | ½ oz (15ml) | Use a silver or light rum. |
| Silver Tequila | ½ oz (15ml) | Blanco tequila is ideal. |
| Gin | ½ oz (15ml) | A standard London Dry Gin is perfect. |
| Blue Curaçao | ½ oz (15ml) | This provides the color and orange flavor. |
| Sweet and Sour Mix | 1 oz (30ml) | Homemade is recommended for the best flavor. |
| Lemon-Lime Soda | ~2 oz (60ml) | 7 Up or Sprite, to top. |
| Garnish | Optional | Lemon wheel and maraschino cherry. |
For the best results, use freshly squeezed juices for your sour mix. A simple homemade version combines equal parts fresh lemon juice and simple syrup.
This small step elevates the flavor far beyond what store-bought mixes can offer.
How to Make the Perfect Blue Motorcycle
Making this striking cocktail is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps.
- Chill the Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the Spirits: Pour the vodka, white rum, silver tequila, gin, and Blue Curaçao into the shaker.
- Add the Sour: Add your sweet and sour mix.
- Shake Well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The shaker should feel icy cold.
- Prepare the Glass: Fill a highball or Collins glass with fresh ice.
- Strain and Pour: Strain the chilled mixture from the shaker into the glass over the ice.
- Top with Soda: Top off the glass with lemon-lime soda.
- Garnish and Serve: Add a lemon wheel and a maraschino cherry for garnish, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Creative Variations
One of the best things about the Blue Motorcycle is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or the theme of your party.
- Tip for Better Flavor: Always use freshly squeezed citrus for your sour mix. The bright, zesty flavor makes a huge difference.
- Balance the Sweetness: If you find the drink too sweet, adjust the amount of sour mix or use club soda instead of lemon-lime soda.
Here are some fun variations to try:
| Variation | Description |
| Lower-Calorie Motorcycle | Use a diet lemon-lime soda (like Sprite Zero) or club soda to significantly cut down on sugar and calories. |
| Fruity Twist | Add a splash of pineapple or cranberry juice for an extra layer of fruity flavor. |
| Spicy Motorcycle | Infuse your tequila with a few jalapeño slices for a day before mixing to create a spicy version with a kick. |
| The Premium Ride | Upgrade your experience by using top-shelf spirits. A smoother base will result in a more refined and less harsh cocktail. |
| Frozen Motorcycle | Perfect for hot summer days! Blend all ingredients with a large scoop of ice until you have a slushy consistency. |
| Blue Motorcycle Mocktail | For a non-alcoholic version, mix 1 oz of Blue Curaçao syrup with a combination of non-alcoholic gin, lemon juice, and top with lemon-lime soda. |
Make it a Pitcher
This drink is an excellent choice for parties. To make a batch for a crowd:
- Combine all the spirits and the sweet and sour mix in a large pitcher.
- Stir well and refrigerate for up to a few hours before your guests arrive.
- When it’s time to serve, pour the mixture into ice-filled glasses and let each guest top their own drink with lemon-lime soda. This ensures the carbonation stays fresh.
Blue Motorcycle Nutritional Information
This is a strong, spirit-forward cocktail, so it’s higher in calories and alcohol content. The exact nutritional value can vary based on the specific ingredients and proportions used.
- Calories: Approximately 260-310 kcal per serving.
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 19-30g per serving.
- Alcohol Content: High. Please drink responsibly.
Similar Cocktails to Explore
If you’re a fan of the Blue Motorcycle, you’ll likely enjoy these other “rainbow” variations of the Long Island Iced Tea. They all share a similar five-liquor base but use different modifiers to create unique colors and flavors.
- Long Island Iced Tea: The original. Uses Triple Sec and a splash of cola.
- Tokyo Tea: A vibrant green cocktail that uses Midori (melon liqueur) instead of Blue Curaçao.
- LA Water: Another blue drink, but this one also includes Chambord and Peach Schnapps, giving it a purplish-blue hue and a fruitier taste.
- Texas Tea: This version adds a shot of bourbon to the mix for an even bigger, bolder flavor.
Ready to Take a Ride?
The Blue Motorcycle is more than just a cocktail; it’s an experience. Its vibrant color makes it a centerpiece at any gathering, while its potent, balanced flavor of sweet and citrus offers a surprisingly refreshing taste.
It’s a testament to how a simple twist on a classic recipe can create something entirely new and exciting.
