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Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
Photo by Alessio Corradini, on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia, of two locals

I haven't been everywhere...
but it's on my list!


Photo by Alessio Corradini,
on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia,
of two locals



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  #1  
Old 7 Jul 2013
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To Ship or Not to Ship
Greetings from Washington, DC!

I will relocate to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from America soon, and I will ride as much as possible there. My questions are as follows:

1. What would be an ideal motorcycle for in and around the capital (in terms of value, part availability, etc...) but also to get out and adventure in the countryside?

2. Should I buy here (DC Metro area) where there are many options at decent prices and ship, or should I buy somewhere in Mongolia?

3. Are there motorcycle clubs in UB?

Thank you for any information you can offer.

Pete
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  #2  
Old 7 Jul 2013
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What about fly to Europe then buy a bike here. Then ride it to Mongolia. Save's the shipping. And you would have a second bike in the US if and when you go back.
John933
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To buy petrol in Europe. Pull up at station. Wait. Get out a 20 Euro note, then ask someone to fill up the bike. Give person money. Ride away. Simple.
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  #3  
Old 7 Jul 2013
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If you're from DC itself (ie, not VA or MD), then if you buy a bike there you won't be able to re-register it after its initial rego expires, because DC requires a physical inspection to re-register the bike. I understand that other (most?) states allow you to re-register online.

I don't now what they sell in Mongolia, but I would try to buy there unless you'r can do all the maintenance and source all the parts yourself. Or maybe buy from an overlander that would like to end their trip in Mongolia, I'm sure there are some.
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  #4  
Old 8 Jul 2013
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I'm from DC. They seem to have stopped inspection for motorcycles. We got ours registered without. But you must maintain insurance to keep the registration valid. You could set it all up then cancel registration & insurance, and keep the tag. They don't actually compel you to return it. I imagine it would be cheaper to buy a bike in the US than Europe for sure but maybe not too expensive in UB.

If you aren't riding for months & months 2up, a lighter bike may be more ideal for that part of the world...

Enjoy your time there, what an exciting move!
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  #5  
Old 8 Jul 2013
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Depends on how long you will be staying...
If staying years then buying there is a good option as parts and service should be available. Unless you already have a bike you know, love and can maintain using parts sent by purchasing over the internet.

Ask your coworkers too. Particularly those there or have been there recently.

Look forward to it
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  #6  
Old 8 Jul 2013
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The ride from Europe to Mongolia is pretty good, esp if you go through the stans - visa heavy but probably worth it. The UK pound is super weak so bikes are cheap - you just need to find a friendly person whose address you can use and who is willing to SORN the bike once you are out of Europe.

Agree with the others - if you will be there for a long time get what is available out there. They still have plenty of Minsks as far as I know!
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  #7  
Old 14 Jul 2013
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Much Obliged Folks
Many thanks to all who replied. Good insight all around. I've since decided, after more internet research, that I will be happy enough with what I can find there. Now, I'll have to learn about extreme weather riding!
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