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7 Jan 2009
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Join Date: Feb 2002
Posts: 249
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Get yourself a cheap 125, a DR or DT or whatever at home, find somewhere to use it, like a beach, club etc and take it from there. Its plenty of practise and the rest you'll learn on the road if you want.
As regards mechanics, learn to fix a puncturte on your own - its easier than pushing the bike 5km to the next village on your own, learn how to change brake, clutch cables etc, a small bit of basic electrics is always good and how to change the chain and sprockets.
No real worries, the area you're going to is well populated and every village has its 'grande machanique' who'll 'fix' the bike whether he knows how to or not. You've plenty of time so no worries.
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18 Jan 2009
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Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: North Carolina
Posts: 22
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Hi Damian,
I don't know about what kinds of bikes you can find in Senegal, but I know a good mechanic (really) in Bamako who can help you find a decent used motorcycle here. He's got a few 600cc sized bikes that just need a little work. We've also got an older xt225 that we would consider renting, if you're interested.
When we were in Dakar and went to the fancy grocery store there were a few ads of people selling their motorcycles, so I'm fairly certain you can find one there. I just know more about Bamako.
Either way, there are options here and if it's a short trip I think it's probably better to buy a bike on the ground rather than have it shipped. Hope that helps. Good luck to you.
Sonja
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19 Jan 2009
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Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Oztralia
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Kevin
As regards mechanics, learn to fix a puncture on your own - its easier than pushing the bike 5km to the next village on your own, learn how to change brake, clutch cables etc, a small bit of basic electrics is always good and how to change the chain and sprockets.
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Good advice, but there is no reason why you can't ride 5km on a flat tyre to get it repaired. I had two occasions last year in China when I had a puncture miles from nowhere and on one instance I had to ride over 30km with a flat.
30 years back in northern Nigeria I also had a puncture and managed 5km to the nearest village with ease.
Garry from Oz.
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Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
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What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
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Lots more comments here!

Every book a diary
Every chapter a day
Every day a journey
Refreshingly honest and compelling tales: the hights and lows of a life on the road. Solo, unsupported, budget journeys of discovery.
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All 8 books available from the author or as eBooks and audio books
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New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
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