Kazahkstan by Motorcycle - any experiences?
 

Dear all

My girl friend and I plan to visit Almaty and adjacent area for 2-3 weeks during the summer holidays.

Requirements:
- Rental of motorcycle in Almaty. Any experiences?
- Two persons to fit one motorcycle. Any experiences?
- Any experiences in relation to good/bad camping areas?
- Any other things, please feel free to share.

Thanks in advance
Søren

Speak to Marat at silkoffroad.kz he may be able to hire you a DR650 or recommend someone who can help. Don't try crossing the border on a rented bike, or get to close to the border zones as they are sensitive about insurgents sneaking across and have military patrols.

The Tien Shan range is nearby, as is Charyn canyon, but north of Almaty is pretty flat and featureless.

Be prepared in case the cops stop you, tourists are popular targets for bribes. Avoid breaking the law and giving them an excuse, but if you are stopped act ignorant and waste their time. If they want a fine insist on a receipt "kvitantsya", maybe have 10 or 20 dollars in a decoy wallet.