Final preps for Bolivia (fuel, storage, parking)
 

Hey everybody,

Almost on our way out for a 2.5 month ride from Bolivia > Columbia on a bike tour.

Few last minute questions, would really appreciate any help:

- How many liters of water do you typically carry on a bike tour? How many liters of extra fuel?

- In terms of parking our bikes. Where would be leave our bikes in the city if we want to go for a stroll through the market? Or, for example, if we want to visit Madidi National Park for 3 days, would we park at a hotel or lodge? Is this Safe? I'm assuming this also means we absolutely do not want a kick-start motorcycle?

- What type of straps should we purchase to strap our packs and equipment to the back of our bikes? I know bungee cords are probably not very secure. Do Chinese bikes or Hondas have racks or mounts where we could run our straps?

You guys have been very helpful, thank you in advance!:mchappy:

I usually keep a couple of litres of water strapped to the back of the bike. I'm seldom away from civilisation for more than a night though.

As for fuel, I have a 23 litre tank that gives me about 460 km range. I've only been onto reserve twice although I did have to knock on doors begging petrol in a particularly remote part of Chile/Bolivia once. (I got seriously overcharged but the lady threw in a litre of wine so I was happy).

[ETA]
I did carry a five litre container of fuel around for quite a while, until it broke loose and the container melted on the exhaust. Luckily someone pointed it out to me, that could have been nasty.

I also brought a water filter. I still haven't used it. Water is easy to buy anywhere there are humans.

Look for signs saying "Parcedaro" or "Estationmento". They're all over South American towns, they're cheap and safe. Many if not most hotels and hostels will also let you leave your bike and luggage. Don't worry about it, it's very easy to sort out.
What's your problem with kickstarts?

I've been using the straps that James Cargo used to secure my bike in the crate when shipping it out. I brought ratchet straps with me but I have never used them.

No problema, de nada.

Amazingly helpful!

Wouldn't it make it easier to steal if you don't need a key to start the bike? Is there something I'm not aware of to secure a kickstart bike? Sorry for the stupid question! :oops2:

Ah, I see what you mean. Competition bikes will have a kickstart and no ignition key, but anything designed to be ridden on a road as well as a race track will have a key, kick or electric start.
If you're worried about your bike getting stolen, bring a dirty great big padlock and chain. It's good practice anyway, key or no key.