Hi - I've just moved to Durban and I forgot to pack my BMW! I'm here for a year at the end of which I would much prefer to ride the long way home through Africa rather than just take the boring flight home. I let myself think it would be easier to find a bike here than ship mine from the US. I hope that was not an insurmountable mistake. Anyway, I would like to buy a bike in South Africa. I prefer BMW and my budget prefers airheads to oilheads. A GSPD would be perfect! Please consider me if you are crossing Africa and ending anywhere near SA - I will gladly buy your bike from you! Cheers!

Hey Scoot,

You should have no problem in SA finding a great BMW, and your idea to ride it through Africa is excellent, so have a great time!

Time for the disclaimer: BEWARE! I'm a Yankee too, and have bought a 2003 F650GS Dakar in Pretoria, planning to ride it home...basically your same story. But, I have found out to my dismay that the US DOT and EPA won't let me bring my SA bike in the country without significant (thousands of dollars) modifications. Don't know if this is more US protectionist crap, or if it's just silly bureaucracy, but I'm stuck.

So, I'm now looking to sell in East Africa, but will struggle with the issue of import duty.

Seriously consider bringing your bike from the US. It'll cost a couple thousand bucks, but you'll be able to ride it all the way home. Also, change the shocks if you haven't already (try Tours for Africa in Joburg for mods) because Africa's no joke!

If, however, you find out how to import a SA BMW to the US...let me know! I don't wanna go home without my baby!

Lessons learned here.

Hunter (currently in Kenya, going to Ethiopia in two shakes).

Hi Hunter,

Sorry to hear about all of the problems. I have a year to figure out how I'm going to get a bike home, if I find one (my contract is over in June and that's when I can start my trip). I think there is something about if a bike is over so many years old it really isn't a problem. That is one of the reasons I'm looking for an early 80's R80GS, though I don't know if even that is old enough to avoid the hassle. I know that doesn't help you with your much newer bike.

Yeah,

You're okay if you find an older bike (I think it's 12 or 15 years old and then it's no problem). Enjoy your trip!

I'm on my way to Ethiopia today!

Hunter

Hunter,
Not to lead you astray of any laws….
But, I had a GS shipped from Europe to Canada then rode it down.
Once in the US, I just rolled into my local AAA office and explained I needed to register my new bike. It was no problem. I live in Ca. it may be different where you live.
Good luck.