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Where could I NOT go on a Sportsbike. Where could I NOT go on a Sportsbike.
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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 Lois Pryce, schoolkids in Algeria

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Photo of Lois Pryce, UK
and schoolkids in Algeria



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  #1  
Old 27 Jun 2006
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Location: Danbury CT USA
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I disagree that any paved road is easy. Throughout Mexico there are topes, big speed bumps, and a lot of them in many areas. I would be concerned about trying to ride through Mexico on a bike with less than eight inches of ground clearance, which would include most sportbikes and many cruisers. Eight inches is not a hard and fast number, because suspension travel and how the bike is loaded are going to be factors, but it is probably a good rule of thumb.

Having said that: 1). I rode an FJ1200 throughout Mexico in '89. It was a mistake (though great for passing packs of slower traffic), and I wouldn't do it again. 2). I have seen a few new sportbikes recently riding in central Mexico, as well as some pretty low looking Harleys. I don't know how they are doing it, or if they are being very careful in selecting routes.

Keep in mind that the topes are often unmarked and can be in rural areas where you would not expect them. Hit one at 100+ kph on a bike with a six inch high chin spoiler protecting several 6-1/2 inch high exhaust headers, and it is gunna be ugly.
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Old 11 Jul 2006
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Location: Yuma, Arizona, USA
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The sportbike is the perfect vehicle for rtw trips. Here's a video of one blowing by a US trooper at around 160 mph

http://www.sportbikez.net/video/40

Here is how to get through crowded city streets, in, I believe, Paris

http://www.sportbikez.net/video/81

And this is how to ride around Paris is you are truly pressed for time

http://www.sportbikez.net/video/5

Hope this compelling video evidence convinces you to try it on a sportbike.
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Old 11 Jul 2006
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As far as Africa is concerned it is now possible to get from Europe to Bamako in Mali without having to leave pretty decent tarmac (other than 5km of piste at the Mauritanian border which, taken slow, is perfectly do-able). Very soon another new road will be completed in central Mali which means you could get all the way from Europe to Nigeria on tarmac - and not too bad tarmac either... food for thought?
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