I have ridden every country in South America except Uruguay and Chile on an F800GS BMW. I met Toby and his wife Sara a few years ago when friends invited me to take part in a tour. I was reluctant to ride a 250cc Chinese bike but agreed to go. The trip changed my outlook on motorcycle size. I had a blast riding ride and gravel roads and a year later I bought a bike from them. Since 2014 I try to get back to Peru to ride the Andes on my bike which Toby stores for me. The shop is top-notch. His craftsmen created a custom pannier frame and footpegs. My bike was originally a 200cc. Before I bought it they had the engine block bored (spelling?) to 250cc. Maybe that is not something special, but I was impressed.

One of the greatest values is the advice Toby will give you on route planning. Toby travels so touch base with him beforehand to ensure he will be in Peru, otherwise, I imagine he will give you tips remotely. I enjoy their company immensely and schedule my trips when they are in Peru.

I don't know and can't comment on every outfitter but I stand on record that they are very honest and deliver high-quality bikes. That said, nothing is perfect, and we are talking South America. Something can go wrong. Toby must go through gallons of lock tight but you still *may* find a bolt comes loose. Just like any bike, you should go over it regularly. If you are seeking zero risks, then its best you stay at home.

If I can get away I hope to get back to Peru in December or January. This job thing is really cramping my style. Until I break free of employment, I have refined the logistics to a well oil process. Direct flight to Lima, spend the night, next day a 90-minute flight to Huanaco for ~$140 round trip. Prepack my bike and wire the GPS the day I arrive, then leave the next morning. 6-days riding later I return to Huanaco, spent the night, then fly back to Lima where I catch a redeye home. Arrive a dawn Sunday and back to work on Monday. You can be an adventure rider in South America if you have 10-days to spare. =)

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Peter B
2008/09 - NJ to Costa Rica and back to NJ
2012/13 - NJ to Northern Argentina, Jamaica, Cuba and back to NJ
2023 - Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia...back to Peru.

Blogs: Peter's Ride