Firstly thanks for the response, all very useful information. In particular, thank you Scott for the web-address; what an amazing collation of information about traveling in the Russia/Mongolia region.

Alex Rubtsov, I do have some off-road driving experience and try to get more whenever I can. I recently did my first off-road event (“Moore to sea”), an 80 mile off road trial, with observed sections. This was far harder than I had anticipated, although I thoroughly enjoyed it, and gave everything a good go.
I hate using such a ‘mainstream’ reference among such seasoned overlanders, but I’m confident I could ride everything I saw in “The long way round” series. River crossings seem a bit daunting, but not too much of a concern.

Sue, I’d be very interested in getting hold of the map you recommended, is it possible to get this in the UK, or is it just available in Mongolia?


Scott, I’m coming round to the idea that a dual-sport machine in the wisest choice for this sort of trip, but if your offer to lend the XR400 was a serious one, then I’d be more than interested in borrowing it.
The only remaining questions I can think of are as follows:

I’m still interested in the possibility of hiring bikes in Mongolia, primarily because there are people interested in joining me over there. Can you shed any light on if/where this is possible, and the choice of machine available?

Are you due to leave Mongolia in July 2006? It would be great to meet up for a bit if you can spare the time. I’ve not really looked into a time frame for the trip, but I should be leaving the UK in early June.

Thanks again for all your help.