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Copper Canyon 2004
Just posting an update and reminder:
Everything is good, we have lots of stuff happening, and lots of rides planned for you. There's tech seminars on Saturday, from tire changing to tools to take to paperwork, carnets etc., so don't plan on riding far Saturday. (Seminars in the afternoon.) Anyone have any other specific Seminar sugestions? Rooms are filling fast, so book soon. There is lots of camping available on site, so no worries if you're going to camp. The prices this year are much better than last, especially if you share a cabin. Santa Rosalia Ferry info here http://www.ferrysantarosalia.com/ See you all there! Grant ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com [This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 21 August 2004).] |
Don't forget to register and order your t-shirt if you want one!
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Anyone know where to get full coverage insurance for Mexico? I have a new bike (finanaced) and need proof for the lender. Sandbourn does it for 4 wheel vehicles but not for motorcycles.
Kurt |
www.mexadventue.com I've used them two years in a row. Full coverage on my KTM is about $80 for 6-days. Your finance company will require it and your itinerary in order to send you a notarized letter... as you probably already know.
good luck! Gerry |
Oddly engough, my insurance co. (Progressive) will cover everything but liability. They will even cover towing to the border. Go figure. So with that and liability from another company the bank should be happy.
Kurt |
I just checked mexadventure.com. They only offer liability for the bike I have. Maybe they offer it for other types but not Triumphs.
Kurt |
Call them if the site doesn't mention your bike. My KTM wasn't listed either but a simple phone call was all it took. They're pretty good to work with. There's also a form to fill out where you can ask them the same question.
Good luck.... hope to see you there! Gerry |
Anyone heading to the rally from the NYC area. Possibly leaving Oct 9.
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Does anyone know if there are still cambins available at the KOA, anyone interested in sharing one?
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
No idea...call them...it's a toll-free call.
:-) |
If you have a Garmin or a Magellan GPS, check out my post at http://www.advrider.com/forums/show...5175#post885175 I think I've found a superb source for GPS maps in which the details are amazing. I've purchased and loaded zone 2 which is Copper Canyon. Appears to be perfect for my needs.
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Any recommendations for a good beach town close to the rally. I have about two days after the rally before I'll need to head home. Anyone interested?
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
Talk to Geraldo Ibarra. I think his email may be on the main info page here. OR, catch him at the event. I'm sure he can make a great suggestion.
I think it's pretty cool that you're coming all the way from NYC. Looking forward to meeting you. |
Anyone planning on camping? I don't think anyone did last year (me included) but figured I might give it a go this year since I'll be hauling all that stuff around anyway.
Kurt |
JSherm,
What route do you have planned? I'm expecting to go through at Presidio/Ojinaga. Kurt |
I intended on camping last year and brought all my gear.
I ended up getting turned on to a way cool motel by other riders for 22 USD a night. It was very cold at night and I great heater and warm bed seemed like the better route for the dinero. I'm bringing camp gear again this year just in case I get hung up somewhere wierd. who knows? //dx |
I'll go camping, I'm bringing my camping gear but will probably try a hotel if the nights are really cold.
see you there, Mark |
I think last year was a bit colder than normal for late October. Still, I've got my eye on a nice down bag. I've camped in colder weather in the area but it was in January.
Kurt |
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I'd like to volunteer as one of the demo bike for the tire change session. My rear should be toast as I'm riding from nyc. Is anyone else planning on changing tires in Creel? Dan nyc ST1100 Adventure [This message has been edited by Digiamo (edited 16 September 2004).] |
I'd be up for it. Not keen on lugging a tire or two all the way from Chicago, but if it was a for sure thing I might do it.
Kurt |
I feel the same so I pinged Juan. I think I'll let this develop a bit before I lug a rear all the way from nyc. The "Mexican style" tire change needs a bit more clarification too. http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif
Guess this is all part of the adventure. Dan DiGiacomo nyc ST1100 Hola Dan, It only makes sense to take a fresh tire if the one on the bike now is worn out more than 2/3 of the original tread, or if you are riding the bike down and by the time you actually get there, it will be worn down. The ground in the CC region is pretty hard, mostly hard pack and loose rocks, so it really does not make that much of a difference how much tread you've got on your tires, as long as they are not excessively worn that it might pose a safety concern. As far as having the ability to change it at the meeting, absolutely, I am sure we can find a good tire service "Mexican style" shop that has the necessary tools and a couple of guys that we can supervise for this procedure, or I will be happy to change it for you, it should only take 15 - 20 min. Let me know what you think. Cheers, Ibarra |
No worries on tire changes, we'll be doing a demo on it, so you'll have an opportunity to practice new skills! (with an experienced hand or three there to help out!)
DO bring a spare tube - always a good idea even with a tubeless tire/rim, just in case you manage to really damage a tire - and yes we'll cover all that stuff) Bring patch kits with TWO tubes of glue, plus a truck boot/BIG patch. Note that we will be doing seminars and training all day Saturday, so don't plan on riding Saturday. We'll even have a short rider training course by an expert trainer available if all goes well. Next year we are looking at a full on ride training course if there is enough interest. Are YOU interested in a three day course in CC? see you there! Grant, in Munich at the moment, heading for Portugal soon for the HU Portugal Travel Meeting next weekend. |
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I also have progressive - was told no go on Mexico. Grrr. [This message has been edited by lasvegasrider (edited 20 September 2004).] |
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[This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 22 September 2004).] |
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[This message has been edited by lasvegasrider (edited 20 September 2004).] |
I just got back from the BMW RA rally in West Virgin and just catching up. BTW, I took the dirt bike school and had a blast.
Route: I am coming from NYC, probably with at least one other HU member (Dan) but I have not made any route plans yet. I would very much like to meet others prior to crossing the border. I think it would be a lot fun is a lot of us crossed at the same time. If anyone emails me there departure dates/route I would could periodically post a list of people to help us connect with each other. Tires: Actually, I was planning on bringing two tires and having them changed in Arizona or New Mex before crossing. Classes: Grant, I love the idea of practical classes, like tire changing riding training. I would be very interested. I'm sure you have a lot of contacts, but the guy at the BMW RA rally dirt bike school vas very good and a great guy. ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
Jacob, It's inspiring to hear you had a good rally and dirt training in WV. I look forward to picking your brain.
It's encouraging that you are bringing two tires on the pack but I am not planning to go through NM or Arizona except maybe on the way back over three weeks later. Is that what you mean? I am planning on spending the night of the 13th in Presidio, TX so I'll be fresh for the crossing on the 14th. Does anyone know the clean, cheap, motorcycle friendly motels in town? Dan nyc ST1100 Adven-tour |
I may be in Presido on the 13th as well. On my way through last year Presido didn't look like much more than a trailer park and gas station. Ojinaga looked a lot more inviting with a beter choice of places to stay and eat. I was headed north and stayed in a town called Marfa if memory serves me. A couple of cheap hotels up there. Let me know your plans maybe we could hook up.
Kurt |
BTW, your temporary vehicle permit can be purchased in advance at a numer of big city Mexican Consolates (Chicago, NY, etc.) I plan on doing that this year to save a bit of time and hassle.
Kurt |
Looking the map I was thinking of crossing at El Paso. Maybe a little less direct, but on US interstate rather than crossing E-W in Mexico. Is there a reason you guys aren't going that route.
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ [This message has been edited by JSherm (edited 28 September 2004).] |
Kurt and Jacob, I have no preference for a crossing since I never rode through Texas. It just seemed a shorter distance to Presidio. I like to plan loosly and let people change my mind often as I ride multiple days in a single direction. I'll definately take the info about Presidio accommodations and perhaps lodge in Ojinaga or Marfa. But if at the end of the day 10/13 we're already in Mexico, we may want to roll and get into the real deal. Maybe El Mangle.
Thanks for the heads up about the vehicle permits at the local consulate. [This message has been edited by Digiamo (edited 21 September 2004).] |
There's not much between Chiuahua and Ojinaga if I remember correctly but then it's a fast ride.
I'm considering taking a dirt road route from Cuauhtemoc to Creel, through Carichi. Did it a couple of years ago. Apart from getting lost for a day (I think I can avoid that this time) it was pretty cool and not too chalenging (except for the getting lost part, lol). Kurt |
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Will be heading down from NC the 7th via Waco, Tex. to Del Rio and the Big Bend park for the tourist thing - should get to Presidio on the 13th. No camping for me in Creel. Remember the frost last year?? The orange and purple, $7.50 ea., motel was warm and had hot water. Maybe I'll see y'all on the road. Just look for an old Transalp with a greyheaded old bastard aboard. Am prepared to head on down to SA if I can round up a riding bud with the lingo. --- Kurt, still got the S I C K hat?
Grant, I would be very interested in off road riding course if offered. Jim |
I'm leaving Seguin (near San Antonio, TX) on the 9th or maybe after work on the 8th, and heading for Guayamas,Sonora to meet a couple of other guys coming over on the boat from baja early on the 13th, and then heading for Creel from the west, doing dirt roads to get there, but nothing too radical from what I understand. No real itinerary at this point, just need to be in Guayamas on the 12th. Currently riding solo from S.A. to Guayamas, if this jives with anybody elses schedule, give a holler, would be happy for some company to bum around northern Mexico for a few days with. I'm riding a KLR650 and speak un pococito espanol.
------------------ Andy Tiegs http://www.tiegs.com |
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------------------ Andy Tiegs http://www.tiegs.com [This message has been edited by AndyT (edited 22 September 2004).] |
update
Cabins are booking fast, get in and book ASAP! We are going to be over 100 people at the present rate! Rider Training Course - looking good for a 45-60 minute "demo" course. For the real deal, full on course, (somewhat customised to deal with our particular requirements - e.g. loaded with luggage!) how many people would be interested in a 1, 2 or 3 day full on course at around US$300 day? Comparable pricing to USA, cause it's a USA instructor. http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif Could be done Thursday, Friday and Sunday if there is enough interest. Don't plan on riding Saturday, there will be lots to do at the Meeting place (KOA)! I'm currently planning on being in El Paso to pick up a bike from Skip Mascorro of MotoDiscovery (formerly Pancho Villa) and arriving in Creel Wednesday evening latest. With any luck I'll be able to get organised enough to leave El Paso Tuesday early am and get to Creel Tuesday night, but since I haven't booked flights yet, who knows! see you there! (I'm currently in Munich, heading to Portugal tomorrow for the meeting there, then London for a week, then home to Vancouver, then to CC!) (I get tired just thinking about my schedule...) One more item - there are lots of subjects we can come up with for the Saturday seminars, and we have some sorted already, but if you have a subject you'd like to talk about on Saturday, please let me know via the feedback form - link below "Contact Us". We want to have lots to do! thanks! ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com [This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 22 September 2004).] |
I would be interested in the all day training.
Is there any possibility of having a quiet area for camping. ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ [This message has been edited by JSherm (edited 28 September 2004).] |
Grant,
Grant, You're such a jet-setter. But I'd envy you more if you did all that by bike. Anyway, I'd be interested in a one day course myself. Andy, The ride from Presideo to Chihuahua is pretty fast. There's a new (last year) cuota for a lot of it. Also, m/c's go half price in that state. They're so progressive down there, wish we could do that here. JSherm, I don't recall anyone camping last year. I fully expected to have the camping area to myself this year. I'm not too noisey. Kurt [This message has been edited by Kurt (edited 22 September 2004).] |
No one camping at a HU meeting??? BTW, can someone give me an idea of what is available for shopping at or near the meeting site. Do I need to stock up prior to arrival.
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ [This message has been edited by JSherm (edited 28 September 2004).] |
Vittles and gas can be had as well as trinkets and beer within walking distance.
Kurt |
Okay, this is an open invitation to anyone who wants to come along.
Estimated route http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/biggrin.gif Oct 9 NYC - West Virg or thereabouts Oct 10 WV - AK or thereabouts Oct 11 AK - TX Oct 12 Austin TX - border Oct 13 border - Creel ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ [This message has been edited by JSherm (edited 28 September 2004).] |
Definately camping. I'll be in my Eurika with my new North Face Mummy bag, unless it rains relentlessly of course. What's the weather in the area this time of year? Dan ST1100 Advent-Tourist |
Kurt,
I check the Mex consulate website for the temp veh permit but couldn't find any info. Can I just walk in and get one. What docs will I need? |
Dan,
The weather is usually pretty good in October. The rainy season should be well over. Moderate temps in the days cool at night. Last year it hit the upper 20's at night but I suspect that was unusually cold for late October. JSherm, Go to www.mexonline.com/consulate.html There's a list of consulates. Look for the one you're intending to use. I checked the NY one and there doesn't appear to be any info about Temp Vehicle Imports. Maybe they don't do it there. Ojinaga is pretty small. The office is right by the border crossing, you don't even have to go inside to do it but you will need all your copies (of title, credit card, etc). Info about what you'll need can be found at: www.banjercito.com.mx. Look for the link Importacion Temporal de Vehiculos. It's all in Spanish, though. I should be in Ark. about the same time you are. Can't say exactly where 'cuz I haven't done any route planning other than a destination. Kurt |
Kurt - JSherm
The site for the temporary importation permit is https://www.banjercito.com.mx/iitv/iitv_en.php It is in english, mostly. I just filled mine out and is a little tricky so if you need any help send me an e and I'll give you my phone#. I did it this way last year and it will grease the skids at the border to have it filled out beforehand. Jim [This message has been edited by Possum (edited 24 September 2004).] |
Who besides K7 and I are planning to cross at Nogales?
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I don't have a list but there'll be many others from AZ and beyond crossing at Douglas.
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I'll be crossing at Douglas or Naco early on the 13th. I'm planning a mostly dirt ride to Creel.
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Speaking of dirt... Anyone interested in some dirt roading it that's crossing at Ojinaga? I have some topo maps (paper and GPS). Done it from just west of Chiuhuahua a few years ago.
BTW, there is a camp ground (RV park) in Presidio. I guess I missed that on the way through last year. Two hotels too! Heck, they have a website.... Kurt |
Hey Kurt I plan to be in Austin on the 12 for a tire change to knobbies and then head for Presidio. Would love to get dirty.
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ [This message has been edited by JSherm (edited 28 September 2004).] |
Jim,
You're notes worked just fine. Got the document and printed it out, so I guess I'm good to go.<G> Thanks for your help. JOhn Quote:
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------------------ Andy Tiegs http://www.tiegs.com |
Trying to figure out my itinerary.
I am planing to cross at Douglas on the 13th and try and make it to Creel by dusk, but I'd go the Hermosillo route if others are going down at the same time. |
Jacob,
Where in Austin are you planning on changing your tires? Are you bringing them or buying? I may be interested in doing the same. There's a BMW/Triumph dealer there I think. Kurt |
Hi, I`m trying to go to the Copper Canyon HU meet, but I have only a Visa
debit card. Will a debit card work for the temporary vehicle import permit? This site says a Check card will NOT do- http://www.coppercanyon-mexico.com/cc-mex/cchere.htm "If you drive your car, you must also purchase a bond (temporary import permit) on your vehicle at the border customs station in Mexico. The bond cost is $15 US and is good for six months with multiple entry. You must also leave a credit card (not check card) number for a deposit stating that you will not sell the car in Mexico." And this page says-". The process it is easier if you have a credit or debit card at your name." http://www.banjercito.com.mx/site/tramiteitv_ing.jsp# Doug 2193 Lutts, TN http://community.webshots.com/user/sundug 1992 ST1100 "Freedom and order are not incompatible... truth is strength... free discussion is the very life of truth." Doug 2193 Lutts, TN http://community.webshots.com/user/sundug 1992 ST1100 "Freedom and order are not incompatible... truth is strength... free discussion is the very life of truth." |
Kurt,
I believe you are referring to the place I have in mind. I believe they are called Lone Star BMW. I haven't contacted them yet. Maybe I'll try today. I'll tell them there may be more than one person interested and let you know. If anyone know a private shop in the area I'd like to know but this was the closest shop to the border that was listed in the BMWOA book. ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
Hey, I'm having trouble finding large patches and tube tire repair kits without any pumps or CO2 cartridges. Any ideas. I order one kit with patched and a pump but now I just want more patches, because I'm sure I'll be learning the hard way http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif
Any places retail places on the way through Texas to Presidio would be very helpful. |
Try NAPA stores and other auto supply places, they usually have patch kits. REMA kits are the best if you can find them. Also try bicycle stores.
Don't forget to get a BIG patch in case the tire is badly damaged and needs patching. A "radial tire boot patch" is good. Carry a spare tube if you're unsure of your skills. I think the tire changing seminar will be well-attended! http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
Those of you worried about tires might want to just have them delivered to a motorcycle shop in Texas. Three years ago, I called around Austin, TX and happened upon a shop called "The Bike Doctor." This is a small shop--one guy with maybe an assistant or two.
Bob is the owner, and he gave me awesome advice for my trip to Central America. He also taught me how to change a motorcycle tire before the trip. He performs some maintenance for the http://www.rosensrides.com/ tour group, so he has experience with travelers on dual-sport bikes. You should be able to order tires from him and get them delivered there. You'll need to give him a credit card to order the parts. Their web site is here. http://www.motorcyclepartsforless.com/ He says he checks e-mail about once a week, so you'll have better luck calling (512) 454-1210. See you folks in Creel! -John '99 SV650 red |
I would double check the credit card requirements.
IIRC, they just use it to charge 20 USD on it and it MUST have your name on the card. I don't think that the border clerks can make the distinction between debit or credit but don't quote me. I plan on using my debit/credit card first, then if need be use a standard credit card. I would call a local consulate. |
It seems that there are no plans to take the train. I guess it would take too much time. I am considering staying another day to ride the train. Is anyone else interested. Also, has anyone been to a town called Paquime between Creel and Ciudad Juarez.
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
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[This message has been edited by AndyT (edited 02 October 2004).] |
Hi all, I'm presently in Nevada heading for Las Vegas on a R1200GS with no ABS or servo assistance, just like the old days and if I can get it fixed in LV I am intending to cross at Nogales en route to Creel sometime around the 8th(ish)and would be happy to tag along with fellow drinkers. Honest I will register as soon as I find out if the bike will be fixedificated, as a certain president would say.
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Hey Grant,
Is there a limit to the # of people in the tire changing class. AndyT, Thanks for the comments. I was reading that town is famous for its pottery, but it sound like it wouldn't be much cheaper than ordering it online (they sell over the internet), although its better to see it in person. ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
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Re tire changing class limits:
If we get too many for everyone to see what's going on we'll do two, so no worries. No worries, we're flexible, not locked into anything... (just setting you up to be prepared for schedule changes etc http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif - it IS Mexico, or at least that's my excuse for flaws in the organisation...) http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/biggrin.gif ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
We don`t need "US CB radio authorization" to operate CB radio in the US, so what about this-
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips_mexico.html Operating Citizens Band (CB) Equipment American tourists are permitted to operate CB radios in Mexico. You must, however, obtain a 180 day permit for a nominal fee by presenting your U.S. citizen s band radio authorization at a Mexican consulate or Mexican Government Tourist Office. This permit cannot be obtained at the border. Transmissions on CB equipment are allowed only on channels 9, 10 and 11 and only for personal communication and emergency road assistance. Any device which increases transmission power to over 5 watts is prohibited. CB equipment may not be used near radio installations of the aeronautical and marine services. Doug 2193 Lutts, TN http://community.webshots.com/user/sundug 1992 ST1100 Thomas Jefferson made clear, "Dissent is the highest form of patriotism." |
Howdy! I am interested in going. Anybody leaving from the East? I'd love to find a few folks to cross the border with.
James |
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If you're in a large city, don't be surprised if the locals hassle you a lot once they hear you. :-) It's all in good fun but it gets old after 10 minutes. |
Hey Guys, I'd like to find someone to head down from NorCal with. Just got my GS a couple of weeks ago. It's an 04' with new tires so you don't have to worry about my breaking down (famous last words). I've never done this sort of thing before. I've been riding for 11 years, couple of track days and am an MSF instructor with some dirt experience. Hopefully I wouldn't slow you up either. I'd like to keep it on a small budget. Time off isn't a problem. Anyone out there?
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Hi NorCal,
I am heading down to the Copper Canyon from San Jose, CA. Planning to cross the border at Nogales on 11th (early morning). Is this timeline meets your schedule ? If so, please send me a private e-mail Thanks, Taka S. [This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 10 October 2004).] |
Taka, there's a problem with your email address - it bounces!
Also do NOT put your email address in a post, it's vulnerable to spam robots. Users can just click on the Mail icon above the post to contact you, so it's not necessary anyway. ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
Grant,
Thanks for pointing out about the e-mail address and the e-mail icon. I should have been more careful about these things. Also, my in-box was full and it has now been taken cared. Thanks for watching posted messages. Taka |
I'll probably cross at Douglas on the 13th, whoever wants to ride down let me know.
saludos |
Me and a bud will be in the general area of Big Bend Park/Presidio on the 10th, 11th or 12th. If you run past a Transalp and a Dakar wave us down and chat awhile.
Leavin out of NC and N. Ga. today -- see you on the road. Kurt, May try some dirt on the way down from Presidio. Look for a dust cloud. :) Jim D |
"I wouldn't sweat it. When we drove down in 1997, we didn't bother with licenses. Just use common sense and don't flaunt it if you're at a checkpoint. If you're in a large city, don't be surprised if the locals hassle you a lot once they hear you. :-) It's all in good fun but it gets old after 10 minutes." Since you have been there, maybe you can tell me if it`s OK for motorcycles to go to the head of the military checkpoint lines. Someone on another list said they are not interested in checking MC riders, and let them through. Doug |
I always wait. They have guns and I'm shy! Sometimes they check (maybe just out of curiousity) and sometimes they just wave you past. I have had my bags gone through pretty thouroughly once.
Kurt |
Sorry, guys not going to be able to make this one. Maybe if I had two weeks. I have a lot on my plate right now. I have the bug though. I'll be on the East Coast for the meeting in NC next summer.
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What Kurt says... these are for the most part 19-20 year old kids who might be excited seeing something as strange as we look coming up too fast. Generally speaking, if the list is long, there are other soldiers watching the queue in case someone trys to dump something. Motion them over and ask if you can ease around. Mostly, they're very friendly although sometimes they want to play, "Let's make the gringo open his bags." Don't sweat it. I think that the most important thing to take to Mexico is a good ATTITUDE. It's their country/their rules. Go with the flow, don't get excited and enjoy the game. If you can't understand that or even tolerate it, go to Disney. Don't turn into the ugly 'merican and make it difficult for others that are sure to follow behind you. If you can do that, you'll have a blast. The people are friendly as you move away from the border. Wave at the kids, enjoy the countryside, spend money with the roadside vendors, etc. |
The first question is always "a donde va?" where are you going? and where are you from.
Remember that most the check point guards are just kids from the country that have been stationed on some remote highway and theyre usually bored out of thier minds. They will be very interested in your bike, i.e. how fast does it go?, How much it costs? etc. Smile and be cheerfull you'll get past faster. Also you may run into a PGR check point, they are looking for drugs and guns. They are polite but assertive, be patient and dont piss them off. It's the local federales who get the wise ideas. . . ride with caution around them. (slow) should you not wish to be searched, put some third rate cheapo porn mags on top of your luggage. When they find them, give them as gifts. Also the helmet makes a discreet storage place. Mexican law is draconian, stiff penalties for minor offences, so act accordingly. |
One last call. I'll be leaving NYC early tomorrow. Several people (well at least 2) will be at Lone Star BMW the morning of Oct 12 for some service before the run to the border. The more the merrier!
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
Quick update from an internet cafe enroute home:
If you didn't make it to Mexico for the meeting - and even some that pre-registered didn't - you really missed a great time! We ended up with 92 people, more than 50% increase over last year. The weather was perfect, the riding awesome - I even got to do some myself! http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/biggrin.gif Lots of great presentations, lots of talk, and lots of plans made for future trips. There were 6 (that I know of) folks heading on south for Ushuaiua too! Jim Hyde's 3 hour off-road rider training went over big, with nothing but rave reviews. Just to make sure you include Copper Canyon Meeting in your next years plans - Jim will be back with more off-road rider training courses, and for those who just couldn't face the freeway drone - or the border crossing - we'll have rental dual sport bikes available (pre-booked only) at the meeting! Keep an eye on the Meetings page for more details as we lock everything down. Time will be about the same, in the September 10-18 area. We are debating doing it mid-week instead of the weekend. Comments? Which would you prefer? See you there in '05! ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
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I would prefer a midweek meeting. That would give others a couple of days to get there and home and for us in AZ, we could extend our route to/from the event. |
Photos wanted - if you have any photos from the meeting, please let me know!
You could also get published, I have received a request for photos for an article. No pay, just fame! http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
Grant,
Thank you for putting on such a great event. It was more than I expected. The Villa Mexicana was a great place to stay, either camping or cabins and the food was good also. The many different configurations on the bikes sure does give one a bunch of ideas for long distance travel. Also, thanks for taking the time to talk to me one on one about my KLR and how to make it as bullet proof as possible for my biggie trip in 2006. The information is appreciated. Talking to Juan Ibarra (sp??) was great. Listening to him talk about riding in different parts of our world made me want to start my trip right then. Would have had to clear it with the wife first.<G> For those that didn't come you missed a first rate rally. The evening slide shows are things dreams are made of. Made is very easy to sleep at night just rerunning the slide shows in my head.<G> The folks that showed up were very willing to share any knowledge they had about their trips or bikes. Very unique group of people in the way they share. Thanks to all but especially to Grant and Carol for putting this together. John Quote:
[This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 21 October 2004).] |
Thanks John!
(I assume you mean my wife Susan not Carol?) Others to thank for putting it all together would be Gerardo Ibarra and Arturo Macias, plus all those who helped out where needed, and especially all the presenters for putting together terrific slide shows and getting up in front of everyone and inspiring us to get out there and just do it. My thanks to all above, and especially to all those who made it to the meeting - you're the ones who made it a success! ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
Grant,
I have a few pics of the meeting and area if you want them for your article or the site. Let me know. Thanks for another GREAT HU meeting. I got to see some old friends, and made plenty of new ones. Regards, Bruce Quote:
[This message has been edited by gaspipe (edited 21 October 2004).] [This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 21 October 2004).] |
Bruce, thanks, good to hear you enjoyed it!
RE pics - not for an article I'm doing, someone else at the meeting is doing one for a mag. Click "Contact Horizons" at the bottom of the page to get me direct, and I'll tell you what to do with the pics. Thanks again, and see you next year! What's your vote - weekend or midweek for next year? |
I vote for midweek - it'd be easier to get to/from.
Bruce |
Grant,
Sorry, I did mean Susan.<G> The older I get the more brain cells it takes to remember names and the fewer brain cells I have.<G> Thanks to Susan as she helped me a lot with questions I had about the rally and registration. John [QUOTE]Originally posted by Grant Johnson: [B]Thanks John! (I assume you mean my wife Susan not Carol?) |
Grant,
Midweek would get my vote also. Gives the weekend for traveling to and from the rally. Take care, John Quote:
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I'll jump on the mid-week bandwagon.
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I'm now back in NYC. It seems these HU meetings are becoming quite the adventure for me. This time I crashed on my way to Batopilis. One disadvantage to riding in the back of the group is that when you crash there is no one there to help. Well, help did finally arrive, but more on that later. I have some interesting stories and photos I will soon post, but for those wondering what happen to me I am still alive, but never made it to Batolilis.
------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
Good to hear you're ok! I assume that crash is the one I saw the result of before I left?
Note to EVERYONE when riding in a group - keep track of numbers, and who is behind who - and GO BACK if someone is missing or drops back! They could be seriously injured! ------------------ Grant Johnson Seek, and ye shall find. ------------------------ One world, Two wheels. www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
Quote:
Don't know if I got to meet you or not as I was only there for two days and then had to head back. Take care, John |
I was riding fully loaded down to Batopilis, going slowly but hit the gas to get up a gravel hill and suddenly my rear wheel decided it wanted to be the front wheel. I spun out and the bike was in the ditch facing down the hill. I busted a Jesse rack and my chain came off the sprocket. I was thought I was the last rider, but Micheal (from Scotland?) pulled up later and we eventually got the chain back on and I drove the bike up the hill to a level area for further repairs. Pierre soon found us on his way back from Batopilis and the two of them patiently gave me lesson 101 on chain maintenance. The jesse bag was buggied and taped up and we limped back to Creel.
Here is a picture of the bike after it was back on two wheels (hopefully this will appear in the message, if not click the link). Note the bike is facing down the hill I was climbing up. http://jacob.smugmug.com/photos/10328701-S.jpg It could have been much worse. The jesse bags saved my leg which was pinned under the bike. I wanted to try the ride under real conditions of a overland trip where I would be fully loaded and I got it. ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ [This message has been edited by Grant Johnson (edited 26 October 2004).] |
Glad you made it ok. At least you got real time experience working on the chain and how luggage bags save legs.<G> Just wonder how my Givi bags would have looked (splintered??) if I had done the same thing. I do recognize the bike by your topcase. Got a picture of the bike.
Take care, John [QUOTE]Originally posted by JSherm: [B]I was riding fully loaded down to Batopilis, going slowly but hit the gas to get up a gravel hill and suddenly my rear wheel decided it wanted to be the front wheel. |
Here is the handiwork by the welder in Creel.
http://jacob.smugmug.com/photos/10666169-S.jpg ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ |
Looks good to me and if it gets you home it's a really good weld job.<G>
John Quote:
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