Which Way?
 

I have also posted this in the Central/South America section. You will see why...

Should I buy a bike in the southern states (USA) and then ride south through Central America down to Argentina/Patagonia, or am I better off buying a bike in Santiago or Buenos Aires then riding north?
I'd really appreciate your thoughts. Thanks a lot.

I live in the southern states (oklahoma) and might be able to help you locate one if you choose to go that route. It really depends on what you want. I may even be able to get it stored for you until you get here. When is your trip?

I think the abundance of bikes in the US will allow you to secure a good deal on one here over pretty much any country south of the US border. Then it becomes which city? I think L.A. would be a good place to look as there are quite a few new and used bikes available for sale at all times, plus the abundance and cost of direct flights. Just my opinion, so someone could/would have a better suggestion.

Thanks
 

a lot, lads. I'm hoping to be heading off pretty much at the start of 2009, but haven't yet decided which way to go. I'm not bothered really whether i start in the States or end up there; it's all one to me. Just wondered if anyone had advice having done the trip and maybe having a strong preference.

Sorry, haven't done the trip (yet), but since I live here in the US, and based on reading about others' experiences about finding bikes in S. America, it seems like the US would be logistically a better place due to the lower cost and abundance of available bikes here.