A couple a pieces of advice:

Buy insurance in the country are traveling. The cost is cheap, but the problems of not have it are expensive. I have heard occasional reports of riders finding insurance that covers multiple countries, but wonder if they ever needed to file a claim and tested the actual coverage. Trip logistics change, so buying insurance in advance may mean purchasing coverage that you didn't use because your route changed. The rules change all the time and you won't know if the policy will be accepted until you actually show up. The cost of short term liability motorcycle insurance is inexpensive (typically 1 to 3 months.) Its the only insurance that is required, which covers what you hit, not you or your bike. The only place I couldn't find a term policy was French Guiana. The only insurance product available a minimum of 6 months at a cost of hundreds of Euros. The situation may have changed since winter 2012 (hopefully.)

Latin American hotels are cheap, camping gear takes up a lot of space. This topic can be compared to holy wars, opinions are strong and you need to decide if you really love camping. A lot of riders find they aren't using their camping gear, then send it home or give it away. In a total of 13 months of travel (over two trips) I used my tent 5 times and only really needed it...never. There was always a town not far with a cheap hotel. Plan to camp only if you love it. Your mileage may vary...

Start on the main roads until you and your partner feel comfortable with your bikes. Pay attention to your partners comfort level if you are planning for a happy trip.

Buy two of the same bike. It will cut your tool and expendables in half because you are sharing them. If you buy a faster/bigger bike for yourself then you'll be waiting for your partner or making her go faster than their bike is built to travel. On my last trip I rode a 800 cc. For my next (dream) trip I plan to riding a 250 cc. Think small, there are so many reasons smaller is better. I recommend buying a bike in Peru. Contact charapashanperu here on the HUBB. He will set you up and get the paperwork processed. I know Toby personally, a great guy. He is an ex-pat raised in Peru. Take a look at his offer. I am planning/dreaming on it.

http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...get-ride-76478

Spend time reading the posts here and in the Mexico - Central America forum...and other regional forums as your plans dictate. There is a wealth of information to be found if you invest the time to read. I spent a few years reading the posts and the rider's websites found often listed in the posts. Some people like to boldly go without research. My personality is to research, plan and then be flexible and open to suggests on the road. If there is a Horizons Unlimited travelers meeting in your country, then go. You will meet people that love to share their experiences.

Start with a dream, make a plan, then start checking off the boxes. You already have the first part. Go for it, motorcycle travel is amazing.

__________________
Peter B
2008/09 - NJ to Costa Rica and back to NJ
2012/13 - NJ to Northern Argentina, Jamaica, Cuba and back to NJ
2023 - Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia...back to Peru.

Blogs: Peter's Ride