I've not ridden the Made In China bikes that are for sale in S. America but have ridden one sold here in USA. Not impressed. Down on power, might be a challenge riding at 4000 meters in Altiplano.

From reports I've read there are many Chinese brands sold down there ... and they come and go quickly. Most Gringos buy in Chile, some in Ecuador, a few in Bolivia. Buying the bike and getting it legal in your name seems to be getting harder and harder. Once again, seek direct, recent info on this.

Look up the reports with riders on Chinese bikes. The good news is
the Chinese bikes get BETTER every year!

The "Get what you pay for" mantra is a legit concern. I've heard both Good and Bad stories of guys doing just what you have in mind. IMHO, the value is not that great ... the local middleman dealers mark up too much and boost the price of a $500 usd Chinese bike up near $2000 usd. And what do you get?

A lot of this choice will depend how extensive your riding tour is gong to be. How far? How long? Dirt roads? Uyuni? Inland Peru'? All the way to Colombia?

In my view you have several choices:
1. Buy a Chinese bike and hope you can get it legal quickly. (it can take months... during which time you can ride around but may not be able to leave the country and return)

2. Buy a nice used travel bike from a Traveler. USA registered is best. Figure a way to transfer title to you and fiddle TVIP. Many good deals out there, many are KLR650's. Prices range from $2000 to $4000. Many are well set up with luggage and lots of good extras. Bikes show up here on HUBB for sale almost everyday.

3. Start your trip in California (or other US state) buy a nice bike here (very cheap). Register it and head South. Sell off in S. America or ship on to wherever.

My choice is option 3. But you need A LOT of time ... and MONEY to do it this way as your trip would be minimum 6 months and maybe a year to properly see all of Mexico, Cent. America and S. America. Selling the bike off at trips end is no guarantee ... but with enough preplanning can be done.

If doing a quick 2 to 3 month trip ... then do the Chinese bike thing and limit your ride to within country you by bike in. I'd try to buy a used one that's had the bugs worked out. Be careful on fast highways .. they are very SLOW ...

Thanks for the advise! Lot of food for thought...

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