Why so popular?

[jessedylan]

Is it just that much easier getting a bike ready to go, or is there another reason touring bikes in S.A (mainly sant. and B.A) draw so much attention?

I wonder because i want one.

[realmc26]

If you buy a bike already prepped obviously its a bonus.

From my research the pro's of buying in S.A are no shipping costs from Australia (Around $2.600) or if coming from the U.S.A unless you specifically want to do Mexico and Central America you have a much greater distance to travel to get to S.A (obviously time and money the key here) which means more money and the cost of shipping across the Darien Gap, again costs vary but recent posts suggest by ship its about $900 approx for you and bike.

Also large bikes (650 +)are less common in S.A so attract a premium price, well above what you would pay for the same bike in the U.S. Often they have quite a few Km on the clock as well and often the title exchange will be dodgy as well.

Having said that often at the end of a trip its too expensive for the owner to ship back to country of origin and with time running out often bikes can be picked up for a bargain price if you are in the right place at the right time.
Those with limited time are more likely to fly in country and pick up a bike from another traveller.

Having looked at the pro's and cons of both options Im considering buying a new Honda cg 125 in Chile, about $1800 Aus new. Bulletproof and will cruise up to 100km depending on load. Known to be ok off road and great on fuel, easy to work on by any mechanic throughout S.A
Unless you have your heart set on a bigger bike or want to do serious off road riding Id give that a thought.

Just my 2 cents worth, only from what I have picked up with searches, no actual experience myself.

cheers,

James

[jessedylan]

Yeah that makes sense. Cheers for your input, i just hate the idea of getting over there and not being able to get a bike or it taking so long i need to miss to much. What do you reckon about going to a dealer, and getting help with the paperwork (my achilles, is paperwork). Are you an ozzie? have you done much touring? Advice about anything can help.
Cheers again James

Jesse

(also i didn't know where to post this, Me and computers don't like each other so i am not so savy)

[mark manley]

I know an American who last year bought a new Honda XR125 in SA and rode it around Southern Africa with no hassles at borders or with paperwork buying it, she went as far north as Kenya. The bike has been fine for the job, cost about $2,100 new and has been returned to SA, I don't know if she sold it there or shipped it home but buying there worked well.

[realmc26]

Here is the link for how to buy legally in Chile

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...santiago-45637

Tells you step by step, should not take too long. Maybe contact the local HU community direct to help out if required.

Buying in B.A could be quicker if you find a seller, photoshop the title in your name and transfer ownership in no mans land between borders. Illegal but common place it seems.

If you have the time Id go to Chile.

Search here for prices on new and used bikes in chile
www.chileautos.cl
Search under Motos.

I have travelled in South America but not by bike. Still planning.
Good luck