100% option 1

You will thank me later

You want either a KLR650 in Texas or a 650 V strom
I'm guessing the KLR650 might work better, because your dad is probably okay with just going 60 mph and taking things slow.

Your budget for the bike should be $1500 cash. Expect to fire sale it for $500 in Nicaragua.

The only problem I see with this plan is I do not know how picky California is about issuing motorcycle titles. Does the bike have to be inspected in California to get the title?

It might make more sense to buy the bike in California and ride it to Texas.

Don't take your own bike. I've never been one of these people who is sentimental about vehicles. It is there to do a job for you and nothing more.

Crossing the Latin American borders is something you will have no desire to do again in your life. Definitely don't take your own bike and then have to cross all those same borders again. You will want to shoot yourself on the way back if you do.

You are going to hit a bunch of "topes" speed bumps at 50-60 mph when you are in Latin America. They are unmarked in many places and it is unavoidable not to hit them at high speeds sometimes. Better to have an inexpensive bike that you hit with them with than your garage queen.

The other good thing about not having a fancy bike on this trip is you will feel a lot more freedom to leave your bikes unattended and go do fun stuff. The Latin Americans are mainly looking for shiny stuff to steal. They will likely pass on an old KLR or V-strom.

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http://www.journeyrider.net Latin America blog (07-8)