Hi,
I have ridden to and from India twice in the 70's. No long haul since then just 2-3 weeks touring around Europe most years.

I retire in March 2016 and am already planning a long haul trip. My wife has given me a year off to 'get it out of my system'.

Originally wanted to go to Cape Town but feel, travelling alone, although I know I would meet up with other travellers, a little daunting due to some of the political unrest in quite a bit of Africa.

Could return to India again via China but not sure.Need an adventure not a holiday.

Best option I have come up with so far is to ship a bike to Canada then up to Alaska, USA and down through South America..Shipping cost quite high so have also been looking at purchasing something like a KLR 650 in Canada / USA and going from there.

At present all is 'open' except the date. Have to work till March 2016, then I'm free.

I have two prepared touring bikes here in the UK ( London) (i) Suzuki DR350 and a (ii) Yamaha ttr600.
Like the 350 best as I will be 64 when I start off and it's easier lifting up a laden 350 than the larger bikes. mechanically it can also be repaired on the road side in most instances. With larger fuel tank the fuel range is about 300. miles, sufficient for most road trips.

Open to discussion and may meet up on route somewhere if your going my way.

Best of luck with you plans.
Lushy 58