I'll be more careful with my phrasing: I did not have any such problems in a couple of trips riding through every Central and South American country. I've taken my bike into most of these countries more than once--a total of more than 50 border crossings. No problems in any of them.

When I needed insurance, it was always available. Sometimes I was told by border guards that I needed insurance, but was let through because I promised that I'd definitely buy insurance at the earliest opportunity. Sometimes I did not quite manage to do so, but then again sometimes I did. On a few occasions I had to taxi to the next town, purchase insurance, and taxi back to the border, where I was then allowed entry with my bike.

I'm aware of reports that riders without existing insurance have been turned back at the borders of French Guiana and Argentina, and I have no doubt that such things have happened elsewhere as well. However, nothing like this has happened to me in this region.

I'll add that I've had the same experience in Eastern (non-EU) Europe, Asia, and Africa--when I've need insurance, someone has been present to sell it to me. Sometimes I've needed to find them at home, wake them from afternoon siesta, and wave money in the air. For me, the whole insurance thing has been much more difficult in the USA, Canada, and the EU than anyplace else.

Hope that's helpful.

Mark