Route planning in Laos

[koby686]

I'm traveling solo through northern Laos on the ubiquitus Honda Baja, and am seeking any advice on routes, towns, roads, etc. that should not be missed. Any help would be appreciated.
thanks, koby

[Doc59]

Pity you haven't had any replies. I'm interested too as I'm in Malaysia and will be heading that way in a few months. Make sure you post any info that you learn.

Steve

[koby686]

Well, I made it through Laos in one piece. It's a motorcyclists dream, mountain roads with virtually no other traffic anywhere in sight. I would highlight the stretch of road (route 13) from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang. Probably one of the most beautiful rides I've ever done. Although definitly watch out for the occasional death-defying bus driver buzzing around those switchbacks. Through the mountain passes, it is usually raining or at least damp and foggy, and the road turns into ice, my bike slid out 4 times (and I WAS going slow) But it's a ride that should not be missed.

any questions will be answered.

koby

[matan]

should i bring helment and protection equipment with me
or will i get it over there/
i plen to rent a bike over there

[beddhist]

Yes, that is a good idea. Cheap helmets will be available, but not much else.

[mark manley]

I have recently travelled through Laos by bicycle and can recommend the Viang Vien to Luang Prabang road, then double back a little and go to see the plain of jars at Phonsavan then on a fabulous road to Sam Meua and visit the caves at Viang Sai. Where you go from there I am not sure, you are unlikely to get into Vietnam with your own bike but would imagine that highway 1 up to the north west would be a nice route.
Do take your own bike gear, especially helmet and gloves, the stuff that you will be given with a rental bike is crap.