Before Covid, I prepare a Suzuki DL 650 XT. And had pre booked a shipping of it to Chile. But we know what happened.
During this time I have spent time to create an alternative to shipping: Buying.
I have also moved to Portugal. I use a Honda NX4 as daily bike and travel bike. Old one from 2003. Made in Brazil. Father to XRE 300. And I have really learned to appreciate smaller bikes.
My travelling plan is to tour South America during the European winter
My plan is to buy a new bike from a dealer. With the condition that he help/fix with all paperwork. Since I plan to sell it in Colombia later. The buying price is not that important. The cost is the difference between buying and selling price. (As you see that I bought a 2003 Honda in Portugal. I have no problems buying used bikes. But that is when I am "home" and can give them a real overhaul, fixing and testing before taking of on along trip.
I do not want to buy a used bike private in Colombia. Due to that I do not know enough about the process. And all checks that has to be done.
I would also want to have and "agreement" with a dealer, before I arrive. So I do not have to search the market (for used bikes)
I have learned that Colombia has a tax system that makes everything over 200 cc expensive. Is that correct ?
Since I will tour SA, I want a bike for which I can get spare parts all over SA.
The other requirement is that I can mount panniers. Yes I know of rack less type Moto Mosko. But it is not my taste. I plan to bring camping and cooking equipment. I want hard panniers.
If we start to discuss bikes, it usually opens and endless discussion.
But I contacted several dealers, And looked at the SA market.
Honda was my first choice. Common bike all over SA: And since I don't mind small bikes. XR 190 is the candidate. But I did not found any good luggage system for that.
Royal Enfield dealer is the one that has given me the best information and support. About buying process. Reference to supplier of extra equipment. And more...
So for now. RE Himalaya is my main choice.
Equipped with luggage system, crash bars and.... from Kujo Motos
https://kojumotos.com/product-catego...v=f003c44deab6
OK. Himalayan is heavier. But low and easy to handle (I have use one in Nepal) Good price, since it is assembled in Colombia. And has a network over SA.
I have also been looking into ATK and TVS bikes.
The mail answer from ATK, was enough to stop there.
End of this chapter.
Any experiences from this in reality is welcome.