So, we are back to the problem of which one to get? I could ber happy with a Transalp, even if i haven't seen many in Brisbane. I think they are not really the type of bikes they ride around here. but back in Italy is one of the best sellers. Nick, could you tell me more about your route? maybe we could talk more on the phone, and you could explain me about your preparation.

Thanks Bill as well, and all the others who have posted, i really apreciate it. i must say i am 6'3" or 1,95m tall and 80kgs. i am not the strongest and that was the reason for riding a small bike. here in Brisbane, I have been riding a Vespa for a while, until i make up my mind.

Thanks again,
Daniel

Let me see whether I understand this correctly: Translation: Your Majesty would like to take two bikes, but Her Majesty doesn't. http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/wink.gif

To help you further it would help if you both could make a decision on that point.

First: if you are going the long way round, i.e. Darwin - East Timor - Indonesia - Malaysia- etc. then you should be aware that a very large part of your riding will be on very busy roads where the going is slow.

Second: for solo riding take smallish light bikes and you will have more fun.

Third: for two-up riding pick something that is comfy for both of you. Test this long distance at home. I think this is very important. I suggest a shaft drive bike like Honda NTV or BMW K75. I used a CX500 and it worked very well. They will give you the least trouble and you CAN fit alu boxes.

Think about what kind of trip you want to do, what route you want to take, Read the travellers' stories here on HUBB to get an idea of what awaits you.

I think there is a HUBB community up your way. Check it out via the menu on the left. Make contact and meet them.

Things will become clearer as you go and do all this.

Have fun planning.

Thank you very much, to all of you, i've just found out that down the road from me there is the Brisbane dealer of touratech and hepco. cound't be easier.

I will be looking and a second hand bike, new we it could only be a Transalp or Vstrom for two up, don't know what yet for a single person.

All the best,
grazie,
Daniel

I think the T alps were on sale at Peter Stevens in Melb. May well be over by now. Late second hand models should of course be much cheaper.

Remember that if your crossing Pakistan and Iran you will need a carnet, the cheaper the bike the cheaper the carnet. You also wont be able to have that bane of modern life..comprehensive insurance..so think about whats its worth to lose. A cheap bike will not have you hemoraging.

You will, no doubt! have seen Sean Howmans photo of his R65 in Tajikistan on the Horizons Calendar. It was a cheap bike, he owned it and it did the job for him.

Daniel, I've an Italian freind who rode his Vespa PX125 from Treviso (Italy)to Cambodia. He had a great time. So vespas are possible as well.

Post on the Brisvegas Horizons list and you may get a reply from Ken and Carol. If you could meet them you would be doing yourself a good turn.

Common EFI problems seem to be fuel pump failure (not that common) or blocked fuel filters as any BMW K100 owner will know.

If you are two up you need to make sure your missus has a comfy seat.

cheers

alec

ok, thanks, one more question, if second hand what is the best year for a gs dakar?

Thanks everyone for replying to my question, i hope to make the right cedision, all the best,
Daniel

Daniel
Just a comment on buying Touratech etc from Australian importers, yeah it's easier but maybe more expensive. I just bought a set of Touratech panniers and racks (2 panniers and a topbox) for my 98 BMW F650 and bought them direct from Germany. Ended up costing me $1700 including customs and GST so compare the prices before you buy. It took about 8 weeks to get here but that was mainly because Touratech were waiting on topcase mounting plates.