Istanbul
 

I'm arriving in Istanbul on the 27th of March to sort visas.
Does anyone recommend a cheap bike friendly place in Istanbul that will allow me to Visa shop??
Also, a recommendation of bike shop that will stock tires for k75 17 inch rear rim would be great as well. I'd like to hit the local BMW dealer but I can't speak Turkish, so their website isn't helping me.

Thanks in advance.

PS I looked on the HU site but most of the Turkey stuff seems outdated.

Did you try the HU Community?
 

The HU community is always a good option anywhere in the world. Anywhere in Turkey, you should contact the One More Mile Club (website in English as well as Turkish). They should have good advice

Hi Edde,

You can find most tyre sizes at the bike shops in the Eminonu area. Don't worry, there will be enough English speakers around to help you. Don't know the BMW dealers in Istanbul but doubt you'll have too many language problems there either.

As for somewhere to stay, Sultanahmet is the place if you want cheap hostels and to meet other travellers. Bike parking is no probs there. Otherwise there're loads of pretty good and reasonable hotels all over the city. Public transport is good so getting to embassies is no worries wherever you are. As far as I know all are on the European side though so you'll probably not be doing yourself any favours if you stay on the Asian side.

Happy travels. Cheers

Richard

Thanks guys for the quick replies...I hit up the HU community, but part of the reason I posted is to make your replies a resource to other travellers as the most current information, which you guys did!
I just arrived in Sultanhamet and am staying at the Sydney Hostel, with bike parking across the street. 8 Euros a night including free wireless, breakfast, lock box but in a shared dorm room...down the street from the famed Orient Hostel.
Hope that helps...

GPS Coordinates of Sydney Hostel in Istanbul
 

Can anyone help with the GPS coordinates of the Sydney Hostel in Istanbul?

Ahmet Demitres, owner of ATA Moto in Istanbul. He's the KTM dealer and has the right attitude to motorcycles. We were offered his shop and tools to use as we pleased. He can get parts for all makes and tires of all sizes. Those riding through can contact him on 02122433554 or GSM: 05323752211 for directions. He's located in Findikli, right below Taksim.