Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB

Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB (https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/)
-   Ride Tales (https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/ride-tales/)
-   -   Pat Around the Americas 2012 (https://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hubb/ride-tales/pat-around-the-americas-2012-a-60128)

Barcelona Pat 9 Nov 2011 21:19

Pat Around the Americas 2012
 
On the off chance that you folks might find this of interest, here is the link to my blog regarding preparations for my trip from TDF to Alaksa next year.

Happy reading, and perhaps I´ll catch you on the road. bier

Pat Around the Americas

Pat

johan&ils 9 Nov 2011 21:33

might find you on the way
 
Hey Pat,

we are goiing the same way, but we leave on the 18 of december with a ro-ro ship in Antwerp. our trip starts in BA 4 weeks later, than going south to Ushaia and than as far to the nord as we can get.

Maybe we will find you on the way.
I'm also writing a blog, but unfortunatly it is in Flemisch.
www.kisstheride.blogspot.com

I'am thing about a small topic on in with the headlines in english (but my written english is not that great :cool4:

Barcelona Pat 9 Nov 2011 22:00

Quote:

Originally Posted by Johan&Ils (Post 355401)
Hey Pat,

we are goiing the same way, but we leave on the 18 of december with a ro-ro ship in Antwerp. our trip starts in BA 4 weeks later, than going south to Ushaia and than as far to the nord as we can get.

Maybe we will find you on the way.
I'm also writing a blog, but unfortunatly it is in Flemisch.
www.kisstheride.blogspot.com

I'am thing about a small topic on in with the headlines in english (but my written english is not that great :cool4:

Johan
Looks like you will be a few months ahead of me - but please don´t use up all the road :mchappy:

I love the title of your blog by the way.

Have a blast.
Pat

Barcelona Pat 30 Jan 2012 23:13

Here is the latest offering. Less than 2 months to go now, and time is flying!

Pat Around the Americas

Very many thanks to all you folks who have been sending good wishes. I hope the blog turns into something you will find of interest and entertaining.

And - who knows - we may well meet on the road.
Pat

Manolito 30 Jan 2012 23:41

Hey Pat! would be nice meeting you @ Rio Gallegos (600km north from Ushuaia)

garrydymond 31 Jan 2012 01:46

Mexico City
 
You are welcome to stay with us if you come through Mex City. We will put you up, show you around and may even throw in breakfast. All you have to do is the dishes.

saralou 31 Jan 2012 04:38

date set
 
Good luck!! 144 days left to go for us... and we will hope to see you on your way up when we are on the way down.

Sara

Barcelona Pat 14 Feb 2012 19:45

Cheers Sara - have a good ride south.

Many thanks Garry. Your hospitality is becoming legend! But I'm probably going to be skirting the east coast, and therefore miss the city and the chance to meet up. That said... who knows...

Manolito - thanks for posting. I'm certainly planning to head your way. I'll send you a post once I have a better idea of a date. Hasta pronto

Many thanks all.

Pat :mchappy:

Manolito 14 Feb 2012 23:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barcelona Pat (Post 367367)

Manolito - thanks for posting. I'm certainly planning to head your way. I'll send you a post once I have a better idea of a date. Hasta pronto

Many thanks all.

Pat :mchappy:

:thumbup1:

Just let me know, I¡ll try to help as much as I can


Cheers

Emanuel.

Barcelona Pat 28 Feb 2012 20:38

Thanks again for the messages - and its that time again folks - so for those with an interest you can find my latest ramblings on trip prep available at:

http://www.patonabike.blogspot.com/2...wn-blog-2.html

I´ve also updated some of the additional information pages, and added the facility to subscribe - so you can get a little email message when I update the site when on the road. Not long now - hope there is no snow in Patagonia!!

Hope you like - I like!

Pat

Barcelona Pat 18 Mar 2012 16:47

2 Attachment(s)
The Final Countdown - now available at a website near you: Pat Around the Americas

Here is me and Idris at James Cargo, Heathrow. Not long now!

twowheels03 18 Mar 2012 17:54

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barcelona Pat (Post 367367)
Cheers Sara - have a good ride south.

Many thanks Garry. Your hospitality is becoming legend! But I'm probably going to be skirting the east coast, and therefore miss the city and the chance to meet up. That said... who knows...

Manolito - thanks for posting. I'm certainly planning to head your way. I'll send you a post once I have a better idea of a date. Hasta pronto

Many thanks all.

Pat :mchappy:

Pat, you really should call in and see Garry and Ivonne, they looked after us for a while and we had a great time. You won't meet nicer people. The best of luck on the trip.

Paul

strimstrum 18 Mar 2012 18:27

Hi Pat

Hope you enjoy your trip as much as me and Mark (Bushman) enjoyed ours !

Martin

Two Moto Kiwis 18 Mar 2012 20:53

Heya Pat

Groovy trip you have planned, we are starting at Alaska on May 3rd 2012, over to Canada to D2D, up to the top to Tuktayatuk then like Sarah and Daniel we are heading south so hope to cross paths swap stories, info and jeiger

Cheers Andi & Ellen

saralou 18 Mar 2012 22:52

GOOD LUCK!! Cant wait to follow your posts. We are just starting the recheck of the gear as you did and get rid of the duplication. Daniel is trying for at least 2 uses per item..Ha ha. T minus 96 for us. Sara PS looks like you dropped those stone you were trying to. Dan had to try on his riding pants this week....phew still fit :)

Barcelona Pat 19 Mar 2012 22:29

Quote:

Originally Posted by strimstrum (Post 371837)
Hi Pat

Hope you enjoy your trip as much as me and Mark (Bushman) enjoyed ours !

Martin

Cheers Martin - say hi to Mark for me. Are you still thinking of this run for next year? If so, what are you planning for 2012?
Pat

Barcelona Pat 19 Mar 2012 22:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Two Moto Kiwis (Post 371860)
Heya Pat

Groovy trip you have planned, we are starting at Alaska on May 3rd 2012, over to Canada to D2D, up to the top to Tuktayatuk then like Sarah and Daniel we are heading south so hope to cross paths swap stories, info and jeiger

Cheers Andi & Ellen


Hi both - your trip sounds great, I wish I had the time! We should keep in touch - a meet in the north could well be on the cards.
Cheers
Pat

Barcelona Pat 19 Mar 2012 22:41

Quote:

Originally Posted by saralou (Post 371874)
GOOD LUCK!! Cant wait to follow your posts. We are just starting the recheck of the gear as you did and get rid of the duplication. Daniel is trying for at least 2 uses per item..Ha ha. T minus 96 for us. Sara PS looks like you dropped those stone you were trying to. Dan had to try on his riding pants this week....phew still fit :)

Thanks Sara - I´ll try and keep it interesting - or at least with plenty of photos!
:mchappy:

Two Moto Kiwis 20 Mar 2012 03:10

Spotted
 
No hiding Pat you are famous ... well done that man. :clap:

Pat around the Americas!

ivanjova 20 Mar 2012 03:17

hi

iam live in rio grande tierra del fuego i like hepl you need
ivan

strimstrum 20 Mar 2012 19:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barcelona Pat (Post 372021)
Cheers Martin - say hi to Mark for me. Are you still thinking of this run for next year? If so, what are you planning for 2012?
Pat

Pat

Rough plan for 2013 (and I mean really rough) is to ride back to Vladivostok (go east this time and take in Mongolia that we missed last time) then ship to South Korea then onto South America.

We have to buy smaller bikes and start saving. I've just sold my business so I have a bit put by - better spend it quick before my lovely Gina spots that the shops are open !

This year we are off in June to Germany to the Horizons meet then after that we are going to head towards the Balkans for a month or two.

Bet you've really got butterflies now.......

Martin

Barcelona Pat 20 Mar 2012 21:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by Two Moto Kiwis (Post 372050)
No hiding Pat you are famous ... well done that man. :clap:

Pat around the Americas!

:thumbup1::thumbup1:

Grateful for any publicity I get - with thanks to the good people at ABR Mag - and a really good mag too. Out every two months, its well worth a read. You can subscribe for the e-version too.

bier
Pat

Barcelona Pat 20 Mar 2012 21:58

Quote:

Originally Posted by ivanjova (Post 372051)
hi

iam live in rio grande tierra del fuego i like hepl you need
ivan

Hola Ivan - que tal te va. Muchas gracias por tu oferta de ayuda. :helpsmilie: Te enviare un mensaje cuando este en la carretera.

Saludos
Pat

Barcelona Pat 20 Mar 2012 22:09

Quote:

Originally Posted by strimstrum (Post 372129)
Pat

Rough plan for 2013 (and I mean really rough) is to ride back to Vladivostok (go east this time and take in Mongolia that we missed last time) then ship to South Korea then onto South America.

We have to buy smaller bikes and start saving. I've just sold my business so I have a bit put by - better spend it quick before my lovely Gina spots that the shops are open !

This year we are off in June to Germany to the Horizons meet then after that we are going to head towards the Balkans for a month or two.

Bet you've really got butterflies now.......

Martin

That really sounds like a plan. I hear Santiago is much cheaper than BA to ship into - so arriving there from Korea could work really well for you. I´ll keep you both in mind as I blog along, and try and post up as much practical info as I can (I´ll try and keep those bits under separate pages).

I´ve just got back from the farm in Aragon with Elena, and finished a few remaining bits of work, so I´m actually feeling pretty good now. A day of packing tomorrow will probably kick off the squeeky bum time again :eek3:

:biggrin3::biggrin3::biggrin3:

Pat

Barcelona Pat 25 Mar 2012 20:01

I´ve arrived - now waiting for the bike - but what a great place to wait around in. Updates in detail on the blog: Pat Around the Americas

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-l...8/SAM_0072.JPG

twowheels03 25 Mar 2012 20:54

Quote:

Originally Posted by garrydymond (Post 365300)
You are welcome to stay with us if you come through Mex City. We will put you up, show you around and may even throw in breakfast. All you have to do is the dishes.


Hey Garry, Angies just doing cheese tortilla's for breakfast here in NZ. How did the roof go?

garrydymond 26 Mar 2012 02:00

Roof is all done. It hasn'i rained since!!

Manolito 27 Mar 2012 05:19

Now it's time to ride :scooter:

Barcelona Pat 28 Mar 2012 00:05

As soon as the bike arrives :D

All is good here at Dakar Motos!
Pat

Barcelona Pat 31 Mar 2012 00:11

Such are the joys of motorcycle travel - my thumbs are being well and truely twiddled as I am still waiting for the bike to arrive!

I´m going to be here for a few more days at least, so the latest ramblings relate to life at Dakar Motos more than anything else. See: patonabike.blogspot.com.ar/

Mrs Pat has been moaning that I need to take more photos of the city - so that´s on the cards for this Bank Holiday weekend here.

My thanks again for the messages and good wishes.
Pat
https://picasaweb.google.com/1163737...59069638020658

Barcelona Pat 4 Apr 2012 04:34

More about Buenos Aires in the latest instalment.

Pat Around the Americas

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-F...2/SAM_0106.JPG

saralou 4 Apr 2012 05:23

Fingers crossed you get a bike soooon!! Enjoying your blog so far. Sara

Manolito 6 Apr 2012 03:33

Pat, today started snowing in Ushuaia. Sorry for the bad news.
I will be asking my friends in Ushuaia what the weather looks like every day, and I'll be telling you.

Barcelona Pat 6 Apr 2012 04:11

Thanks Manolito. I´m now in Sierra Grande - just north of Puerto Madryn - and will be stopping in Gaimen for a couple of days.

Hard day today, and my shoulders and neck are hurting as my body gets used to being back on the bike doing distances. Still more to come! See: Pat Around the Americas

Manolito 6 Apr 2012 05:46

Just a little bit south you are going to have a new friend.... the wind :smartass:. It's 1:44am (-3GMT) and we are having -4.1ºC.

If there is something you need just mail me at: etiberi@hotmail.com.ar. You can leave the bike in my house for a couple of days,etc.




Emanuel.

Barcelona Pat 10 Apr 2012 03:10

A fantastic couple of days with the Welsh Community in Patagonia - just written this bit up - and added photos - see:
Pat Around the Americas: Day 16 and 17 – to Gaiman (and Trelew)

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c...0/SAM_0183.JPG

Cheers
Pat

Barcelona Pat 13 Apr 2012 03:32

With thanks to Manolito - great to meet up with you - and many thanks for showing me around. The latest report from the road is at: Pat Around the Americas: Day 18 to 20 – Rio Gallegos

Manolito 14 Apr 2012 16:53

Hey Pat, was nice meeting you.
You left the city and now it's too windy and cold :oops2:

Barcelona Pat 15 Apr 2012 01:52

E
Thanks again for all your help and support. It was great meeting you. Like I said, the sun always shines on my bike!

Heading to Torres del Paine tomorrow.

Cheers
P

Manolito 18 Apr 2012 21:27

It's snowing in Ushuaia :nono::nono::nono:

Pat, if you are heading to Calafate and Chalten, let me know so I can send you some info.

Barcelona Pat 21 Apr 2012 23:23

Thanks mate - but I´ve already passed there (the glacier was incredible) and am heading north as fast as I can to get away from this freezing wind!

I had a fall in the horrible ripio north of Tres Lagos. Nothing serious. When I tried to pick up the bike, the wind blew me over again! Got a truck to stop and act as a wind break.

Do you know anything about the road between Rio Mayo and Bariloche? Is it all paved yet? Or are there road works / obras?

cheers
pat

Manolito 22 Apr 2012 16:14

It too cold in here hahaha.
I think they are working in a small area, but then the gravel road ends

Barcelona Pat 29 Apr 2012 17:21

A few words to explain why I have been quiet on the blog:

Pat Around the Americas

Cheers
Pat

Revenue 30 Apr 2012 05:25

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barcelona Pat (Post 377305)
A few words to explain why I have been quiet on the blog:

Pat Around the Americas

Cheers
Pat

Hi Pat
How the bike holding up and major problems ??
Under 10 weeks now and i will be leaving the UK, when do you hope to be back home??

Eric

Barcelona Pat 1 May 2012 00:33

Hi Eric
Nope no problems with the bike really - done almost 10k kms now, and it is in need of a little TLC - will do an oil / filter change, adjust chain etc and generally tighten things up in the next few days.

I need to be back in August - so we´ll see how much I can get done by then. I´m already having to make compromises - but that´s life on the road - ticking off my big things though - which is good.

Pat

Barcelona Pat 7 May 2012 15:04

A triple hit as I push to get more up to date with the site.
Pat Around the Americas
Pat

Barcelona Pat 10 May 2012 21:51

A quick update on the site - including information on the borders to date:

Pat Around the Americas

Pat

Barcelona Pat 20 May 2012 01:24

I´m back blogging in full again :clap: as the magazine bits are now behind me. We pick up the trip again at Nasca heading north through Peru:
Pat Around the Americas: Day 56 to 57 – to Lima, Peru
:funmeteryes:

Manolito 20 May 2012 23:57

:clap::clap::clap:

Barcelona Pat 27 May 2012 02:32

More about the wonderful Peru - still on the road, still heading north!
Pat Around the Americas: Day 58 to 60 – to Chiclayo, Peru

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-p...8/SAM_1077.JPG

Barcelona Pat 30 May 2012 00:46

Have a look at the write up of my ride from Peru into Ecuador:

Pat Around the Americas: Day 61 to 62 – to Loja, Ecuador

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-q...0/SAM_1107.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T...0/SAM_1116.JPG

Barcelona Pat 2 Jun 2012 03:52

For those of you who have nothing better to do - have a read of the latest episode in my journey - and think differently about Ecuador!

Pat Around the Americas: Day 63 to 65 – to somewhere in Ecuador

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8...0/SAM_1165.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-n...0/SAM_1219.JPG

Barcelona Pat 4 Jun 2012 04:05

Up and out of Ecuador - and into Colombia. Bring it on!

Pat Around the Americas: Day 66 to 67 – to Pasto, Colombia

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-3...2/SAM_1244.JPG

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G...0/SAM_1249.JPG

Barcelona Pat 12 Jun 2012 03:50

I´ve been down with a stinky cold - which has seen me just crashing out each evening, so this update is running a bit late. I really must give my lid a clean too!! :innocent: Having a break for a few days, so will catch up with posts soon.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 68 to 70 – to Calí, Colombia

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z...0/SAM_1261.JPG

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Y...0/SAM_1259.JPG

jim lovell 16 Jun 2012 13:43

Hope you're well Pat and keeping safe! Cheers Jim, Tres n Tom.

Barcelona Pat 17 Jun 2012 03:35

All well family - and looking forward to seeing you in August.

Here is the latest entry for the blog - the last of the South American one (sob):

Pat Around the Americas: Day 71 to 72 – to Bototá, Colombia

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t...6/SAM_1270.JPG

Barcelona Pat 19 Jun 2012 06:48

The story starts to get a bit darker as my mood changes:
Pat Around the Americas: Day 73 to 75 – to Santiago, Panama

Cheer me up with a donation to Unicef if you can please: Patrick McCarthy is fundraising for UNICEF UK

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K...0/SAM_1277.JPG

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-m...0/SAM_1289.JPG

Manolito 19 Jun 2012 23:10

Love that green landscape!! can I go with you ? :blushing:

Barcelona Pat 21 Jun 2012 21:46

Quote:

Originally Posted by Manolito (Post 383099)
Love that green landscape!! can I go with you ? :blushing:

Too late - I´m already back into the desert landscape. Parts of south Texas look a lot like parts of Patagonia!

Hope things are well with you - and that your arm is now fully recovered from the fall.
Cheers
Pat

Barcelona Pat 21 Jun 2012 22:48

A difficult one this time - and I´ve debated back and forth with myself for a while now whether to post it - but for completeness here it is (albeit an edited version).

Pat Around the Americas: Day 76 – to David, Panama

Barcelona Pat 25 Jun 2012 22:38

Back on the road - here is the latest from Costa Rica.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 77 – to Alajuela, Costa Rica

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-i...0/SAM_1297.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-S...0/SAM_1310.JPG

Barcelona Pat 28 Jun 2012 00:59

I love surprises - and Nicaragua delivered so much more than anticipated (and it was cheaper than Panama and Costa Rica!). Hope you like the latest in my ongoing scribbles.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 78 to 79 – to Somotillo, Nicaragua

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-C...0/SAM_1346.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-P...0/SAM_1340.JPG

Barcelona Pat 30 Jun 2012 05:57

Through Honduras in this latest episode - and did I get ripped-off... of course I did!!

Pat Around the Americas: Day 80 to 81 – through Honduras to El Salvador

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-q...0/SAM_1354.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7...0/SAM_1357.JPG

Barcelona Pat 6 Jul 2012 01:21

Here is the link to the latest entry - we´re now in lovely Guatemala. Read on!
Pat Around the Americas: Day 82 to 85 – to Antigua, Guatemala

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-W...0/SAM_1373.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-S...0/SAM_1413.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q...0/SAM_1418.JPG

Barcelona Pat 9 Jul 2012 04:56

Here is the latest episode. Viva Mexico - but there may be troubles ahead...

Pat Around the Americas: Day 86 to 87 – to Acayucan, Mexico

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V...0/SAM_1441.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t...0/SAM_1474.JPG

Barcelona Pat 17 Jul 2012 04:23

A request for help this time round - more on the trip soon.

Pat Around the Americas: Why am I doing this?

Thanks
Pat

Barcelona Pat 21 Jul 2012 04:52

Back on the road - and it’s the end of Mexico – but not the end of me, despite shoot outs and hurricanes. Read on...
Pat Around the Americas: Day 88 to 90 – to somewhere near the Mexico - USA border

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G...0/SAM_1481.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S...0/SAM_1493.JPG

Barcelona Pat 1 Aug 2012 14:03

Its onwards and upwards in the latest episode of Pat Around the Americas... well more like onwards and sidewards as we head more west than north after finally arriving in the good ol US of A.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 91 to 93 – to El Paso, USA

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Z...0/SAM_1511.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-J...0/SAM_1517.JPG

Barcelona Pat 3 Aug 2012 12:41

I've set up JustTextGiving for my Pat Around the Americas fundraising in the UK.

Using your mobile phone, it is quick and easy and (aside from the donation) won't cost you, me or Unicef anything. :clap:

Just text PATA50 £5 (with the amount you want to donate - £5 is shown as an example but it will work from £1) to 70070, and you'll get a receipt and the option to link to Gift Aid (which I recommend if you are a UK tax payer). Simples

http://www.patonabike.blogspot.com.e...xt-giving.html

Go on pick up your phone and take a second to help out those kids now. :helpsmilie::thumbup1:
Thanks
Pat

amzahsulaiman 3 Aug 2012 16:05

:thumbup1: Hi Pat,
It was nice to see the very same sight of track which I have had travelled few weeks earlier than you. Safe ride to your next destination. If you fancy riding Canada and Alaska next Spring, we might just cross each other track.

Adios!

worldondoor 3 Aug 2012 22:59

world tour need help
 
hello dear
my name is atif i need some information about motorbike world tour i have plan about 200,000/-Km around 29 countries
like a Pakistan,China,Russia,Azerbaijan,Iran,Iraq,Saudi Arabia, Jordan,Syria, Turkey,Greece, Albania,Macedonia (Fyrom),Bulgaria, Serbia (Kosovo),Romania, Moldova, Ukraine,Belarus, Lithuania,Poland,Slovakia,Hungary, Austral,Italy, Algeria,Spain, France,United Kingdom.
I am trying to find information from long time by self and by government sector but i am confuse like a which kind of documents i need which kind of visa i need how i get permeation for it or etc.... if you have any idea plz let me now about it, and i need to now which motorbike is best and and cheep coz i have no much funds for it coz i have no sponsor or any help for it
If you are able plz help me thx
E-mail: worldondoor (at) gmail.com
Lahore, Pakistan

Barcelona Pat 4 Aug 2012 13:28

Quote:

Originally Posted by worldondoor (Post 388141)
hello dear
my name is atif i need some information about motorbike world tour i have plan about 200,000/-Km around 29 countries
like a Pakistan,China,Russia,Azerbaijan,Iran,Iraq,Saudi Arabia, Jordan,Syria, Turkey,Greece, Albania,Macedonia (Fyrom),Bulgaria, Serbia (Kosovo),Romania, Moldova, Ukraine,Belarus, Lithuania,Poland,Slovakia,Hungary, Austral,Italy, Algeria,Spain, France,United Kingdom.
I am trying to find information from long time by self and by government sector but i am confuse like a which kind of documents i need which kind of visa i need how i get permeation for it or etc.... if you have any idea plz let me now about it, and i need to now which motorbike is best and and cheep coz i have no much funds for it coz i have no sponsor or any help for it
If you are able plz help me thx
E-mail: worldondoor (at) gmail.com
Lahore, Pakistan


Atif,
You have found the correct website for the sort of questions you are asking, but perhaps not the right thread. Why don´t you post a message on the regional forums on this website - and/or send a message to some of the communities for information on specific countries. You could also use the search facility to check documentation requirements of the countries you mention. You´ll find the links for all these parts of the HUBB at the top. Unfortunately I have not ridden most of the countries you have noted in your message.

For countries that are members of the European Union (27 in total - including Spain, France, UK, Italy, Poland etc) you´ll need third party insurance as a minimum. This is essential - no options. A single insurance policy should cover you for travel in all 27 countries - you should check that this is the case when seeking quotes from companies online. You will also need a valid drivers licence - which shows that it also covers the size of bike you will be riding. Depending on where you are from, you will also need a visa - which may or may not be valid for all EU countries. You will need to check specific requirements for each of the EU countries you are thinking of travelling to. The UK, for example, has very different visa rules to Spain. Sorry, but I don´t know what import regulations there are (if any) for the temporary use of a non-EU registered bike. But you may find some information on this elsewhere on the HUBB.

If you are thinking of travelling to the Americas (south, central or north) you´ll find the information on my website of interest.
Pat Around the Americas
I´ll be transferring some of that information to the relevant pages of the HUBB over the coming months too.

I found the Adventure Motorcycle Handbook a very useful place to start my big trip planning. You can find copies on Amazon.com or at Adventure Motorcycling Handbook | the website for the book A new edition will be out in a few months.

Good luck with your planning, and your trip.
Pat

Barcelona Pat 7 Aug 2012 15:40

Some great riding through New Mexico and Arizona to find some lost family (well, not lost, you know what I mean) - but only to finish with a true loss.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 94 to 96 – to Phoenix, USA

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-u...0/SAM_1530.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-s...0/SAM_1531.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-5...0/SAM_1558.JPG

Barcelona Pat 14 Aug 2012 21:50

Heading into northern Arizona I realise first hand why so many tour companies run trips around this incredible landscape. Catch up on the latest episode of...
Pat Around the Americas: Day 97 to 98 – to Flagstaff, USA

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6...0/SAM_1550.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-o...0/SAM_1572.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O...0/SAM_1627.JPG

Barcelona Pat 21 Aug 2012 19:46

There I was riding along minding my own business and all of a sudden this huge pothole appeared! Lucky that Idris has some stopping power. Read all about it in the latest episode: Pat Around the Americas: Day 99 – to Grand Canyon, USA

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l...0/SAM_1648.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4...0/SAM_1656.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E...0/SAM_1687.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-I...0/SAM_1709.JPG

Barcelona Pat 4 Sep 2012 22:43

A bit of a delay uploading this latest post as I was spending quality time with Mrs Pat, but here is the Monument Valley episode. Enjoy!

Pat Around the Americas: Day 100 to 102 – to Rock Springs, USA

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-K...0/SAM_1741.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-P...0/SAM_1746.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d...0/SAM_1779.JPG

Barcelona Pat 13 Sep 2012 21:14

Here we are with the latest episode... and the one in which I get to Yellowstone. I´m in awe of the place.
http://patonabike.blogspot.co.uk/201...zeman-usa.html

Please share the blog with as many people you can, and help boost the fundraising.
Thanks

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-y...0/SAM_1783.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-S...0/SAM_1789.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-_...0/SAM_1819.JPG

Barcelona Pat 18 Sep 2012 21:16

Here is the episode where I don´t go anywhere... well, not true. I go to the pub! Have a read.
Pat Around the Americas: Day 105 to 107 – to Bozeman, USA

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-7...0/SAM_1841.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7...0/SAM_1845.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-r...0/SAM_1849.JPG

Barcelona Pat 28 Sep 2012 20:31

Thanks all for your ongoing support!

Into Canada, YEY! And my wheel almost falls off - BOO! The journey continues, and so does the story. Read the latest here, and don´t forget to share with your friends.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 108 to 109 – to Windermere, Canada

As usual, here are a few taster shots of what I saw these days:
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W...0/SAM_1879.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-I...0/SAM_1869.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_...0/SAM_1887.JPG

Barcelona Pat 12 Oct 2012 20:27

My apologies to all for the lateness in uploading this episode of the journey - not far and not long to go now. Don´t know about you, but I´m getting excited!

Big mountains and big sights this time out. And a big thanks to one and all as the stats mount up. 28,000 kms on the trip so far, and over 23,000 hits on the website. You´ll also see more updated stats for the journey if you click on the stats tab on the top of my website.

Now, if only the fundraising stat could match some of those. So pleeeease, if you haven´t already given to help the neediest children of the world, there is no time like the present. Guidance on how to do that can be found by clicking here: Patrick McCarthy is fundraising for UNICEF UK

Pat Around the Americas: Day 110 to 111 – to Prince George, Canada

And the usual taster photos:

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-X...0/SAM_1929.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Y...0/SAM_1945.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q...0/SAM_1951.JPG

Go on, share the website link with mates, like it, share it, +1 it, promote it and help raise awareness and funding for this great cause.

Cheers
Pat

Barcelona Pat 20 Oct 2012 17:49

30,000 kms gets clocked up in this latest update of the ongoing saga of (what seems to be) my 4 month battle against strong winds!!

Lots more to see and do though... but will I make it to Alaska?

If you like reading the scribbles as much as I enjoy writing them, have a think about how you can help Unicef enable loads of kids have more fun too (through your donation).

See link: Pat Around the Americas: Day 112 to 114 – to Whitehorse, Canada

Cheers
Pat

Oh. Almost forgot... here are some taster shots from this episode:
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-z...0/SAM_1982.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4...0/SAM_1999.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-l...0/SAM_2005.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-F...0/SAM_2020.JPG

Ruud A 21 Oct 2012 11:14

Hey Pat,

I do like your blog and your photo's!
How do you like the Tenere??

Enjoy your tripe and safe travels

Ruud

Barcelona Pat 21 Oct 2012 13:43

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ruud A (Post 397363)
Hey Pat,

I do like your blog and your photo's!
How do you like the Tenere??

Enjoy your trip and safe travels

Ruud

Thanks for posting Ruud, and I´m glad you are enjoying the story and photos. There is a lot more to come, including a detailed review of the XT660Z as an overlander.

In short, however, I love the thing. It is easy to maintain, very capable on the tricky stuff, looks great, robust, cheap to buy and run, and has the capacity to get under your skin. I think the best way to express it is that the bike has a lot of soul. I´ll be hanging on to this one until I am old and grey - even if it ends up a heap if bits in my garage!!

Take care
Pat

Ruud A 21 Oct 2012 14:10

Thanks Pat, I will continue reading your blog !

Good to hear you love your Tenere so much, its on my shortlist for my next travelbike. One question though... Where I live I have to travel 1000km first before it starts getting interesting, that means 1000km of boring highway through germany or france ususally... How does the Tenere cope on highways? Good on power, is it comfortable enough for highways?

Much appreciated!

Ruud

Barcelona Pat 21 Oct 2012 15:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ruud A (Post 397380)
Thanks Pat, I will continue reading your blog !

Good to hear you love your Tenere so much, its on my shortlist for my next travelbike. One question though... Where I live I have to travel 1000km first before it starts getting interesting, that means 1000km of boring highway through germany or france ususally... How does the Tenere cope on highways? Good on power, is it comfortable enough for highways?

Much appreciated!

Ruud

Ruud
The XTs are not fast bikes. That said, the 660 has plenty of power for 80mph / 120kph on the motorways, where it will sit all day. It will do more infact, but becomes a bit of an effort above those speeds.

The question of comfort is a very personal thing. I know guys who have no problem with long distances with the standard seat, others (like me) found it too much beyond a few hours.

As you´ll see on my website, I now use a sheepskin, which works for me to the extent that I can do 1000kms plus in a day without too much of a problem. Other guys I know swear by the airhawk - I didn´t go down that route as a) they are more expensive than a sheepskin, and b) they increase the sitting hight a little on what is already a tall bike. Hope that helps.
Pat

Barcelona Pat 26 Oct 2012 20:53

Dawson City, as close to a living wild west town as you will find anywhere today - and I loved it.

But things were really getting hard, read about it by clicking on the link:

Pat Around the Americas: Day 115 to 116 – to Dawson City, Canada

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-g...0/SAM_2037.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-n...0/SAM_2052.JPG

Barcelona Pat 14 Nov 2012 19:01

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-e...0/SAM_2075.JPG

These were important days in my trip - no surprise why - read about them in this latest eposide:

Pat Around the Americas: Day 117 to 119 – to Alaska, USA

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-u...0/SAM_2080.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-g...0/SAM_2127.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u...0/SAM_2134.JPG

jim lovell 15 Nov 2012 11:57

Thanks Pat, loving the pics..

Barcelona Pat 3 Dec 2012 22:30

We have magical McCarthy and the Haines Highway in this latest episode of the journey. Only two more chapters to go... read on.

Pat Around the Americas: Day 120 to 123 – to Haines, Alaska, USA

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1...0/SAM_2160.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1...0/SAM_2230.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-H...0/SAM_2233.JPG
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o...0/SAM_2236.JPG

Barcelona Pat 10 Dec 2012 19:20

As I load up this penultimate episode from the trip, I noticed that I´ve just racked up 30,000 hits on the website. Very many thanks to you all for your interest and I hope you like this latest offering:

Pat Around the Americas: Day 124 to 127 – to Bellingham, USA

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q...0/SAM_2250.JPG
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-i...0/SAM_2274.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-R...0/SAM_2277.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-O...0/SAM_2283.JPG

Manolito 24 Dec 2012 21:21

Pat,Merry Christmas!

Barcelona Pat 24 Dec 2012 21:24

Quote:

Originally Posted by Manolito (Post 405126)
Pat,Merry Christmas!

Feliz Navidad amigo, y espero que el tiempo mejore y tengáis navidades sin lluvia!

jeiger

Pat

saralou 30 Dec 2012 04:14

Congrats
 
Congratulations!!! What a trip. Sara

Barcelona Pat 30 Dec 2012 16:24

The last episode from my trip is now available - Pat Around the Americas: Day 128 to 131 – to home!

After over 20,000 miles of solo travel, please give what you can to Unicef at: http://www.justgiving.com/patrickmccarthy

I´ve also uploaded more information on The Gear, with reviews and recommendations. And work is already underway uploading reviews of the bike and Idris' modifications. So more info to come.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r...0/SAM_2296.JPG
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3...0/SAM_2297.JPG
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-1...0/SAM_2293.JPG

PS - thanks Sara for the support - I´ll be following your progress with interest.

Quest 3 Jan 2013 10:45

Pat, congratulations on the trip which, like others, I have followed for months. The equipment reviews are interesting as I do have som ethe same as you had ie. HG jacket, tent etc. As I am due to start the same trip but from North to South in May I would be interested (read nervous) on your updated costs.

Regards

Dave

Barcelona Pat 13 Jan 2013 21:40

Thanks Dave - and everyone else for the support.

Well the story might be over, for now, but the flow of information continues.

If you are interested, I´ve finished uploading the reviews of all the gear I took along with me here: Pat Around the Americas: The Gear

And reviews of the bike and all the modifications, here: Pat Around the Americas: The Bike

I´ve yet to total up all my costs, but it could be done for around $15k. More to follow soon.

Cheers
Pat

Rondelli 14 Jan 2013 19:48

Thanks for the info Pat, still helping us along, see you on the road somewhere! :scooter:

Barcelona Pat 11 Feb 2013 22:15

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rondelli (Post 407701)
Thanks for the info Pat, still helping us along, see you on the road somewhere! :scooter:

Cheers fella - hope you are both having a ball!

Barcelona Pat 11 Feb 2013 22:19

In this last post about the trip, I wrap up the story with some thoughts looking back... and looking forward.

Pat Around the Americas: The Epilogue

I continue to update the supporting pages of the website - and have, for example, just finished calculating the final full costs (I was putting that bit off). I knew I had blown my budget. By the time I got to the USA and encountered those baking hot days, it was all I could do but dive into some aircon powered motel! Nevertheless, it wasn´t quite as bad as I thought. And it gives me a firm target for my fundraising - so please feel free to give to UNICEF if you haven´t already.

Work on the book is well underway, and I hope to be bouncing drafts around in the coming months - so watch this space on that front also. And, just like the blog and website, the book will also be geared towards raising funds for UNICEF. Please do what you can.

Rondelli 13 Feb 2013 23:11

Hola Pat, your blog came in useful again last night, in Arica and something just jogged my memory, the Relaction de passageros! quick trip to the bus station to pick one up (and Peru immigration card) still took 2 hours though, busy and disorganised, !!


All times are GMT +1. The time now is 22:17.


vB.Sponsors