How to buy a bike in Asia?
 

Hello horizons unlimited forum,

firstly I would like to apologise if this is covered elsewhere - I have looked and googled for many hours now - but my internet connection is so slow (rural Australia) it is incredibly painful. If you know where to find the information a link would be greatly appreciated.

I want to buy a bike somewhere in Asia - legally - and ride it through several Asian countries. I am being vague because frankly I have no specific plans - if it's too difficult, expensive or illegal, I'll just cross it off the list like I have with Vietnam (cannot obtain a licence with tourist visa/ will not accept australian IDP so no insurance). I don't really care what kind of bike as long as it is reasonably cheap ($1000 usd ballpark), reliable and can cruise at regular speeds - 110 -250 cc should be fine.

I do not have any address in Asia or any way to obtain one. I can only obtain standard tourist visas to my knowledge ( no sponsors or employers). I have a valid IDP, passport, and Australian riders licence (provisional).

This is my first time travelling, so please keep it simple, as I am a noob. Any up to date, straight forward information would be greatly appreciated.

You had some very good advice from Blackwolf on RA?
Take note from what he tells you IMO

Thats perfect advice on RA.

However, although appartenty easier, buying a bike from Malaysia isn't as good as it sounds, you will only get a certain number of days on a temp import, 30 at one time and 60 within a calendar year ( i

No, problem you may say. Although Malaysia is great, it isn't for everyone .. so some spend less time there - Thailand is a lot more attractive for many reasons - cost, food, accommodation, friendliness of locals and the sheet amount of places to visit - so you will soon max out your temp import allowance.

Just understand that - its often worth spending that extra time / money getting a Thai bike, which are cheaper.

Good luck