The Trans America Trail

[Eddieb]

Found a cool compilation vid from 2 guys who rode the trail, it's good viewing.

Click through the link to the Vimeo site so you can watch it full screen, it's much better.

<object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13365926&amp;server=vimeo.com&amp;sh ow_title=1&amp;show_byline=1&amp;show_portrait=0&amp;color=&amp;fu llscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13365926&amp;server=vimeo.com&amp;sh ow_title=1&amp;show_byline=1&amp;show_portrait=0&amp;color=&amp;fu llscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/13365926">Two riders from New England ride the Trans America Trail</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2864208">Rick Baker</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>

[dino3310]

well mate i cant watch the vid cause of my stink puta but all the pictures ive been patiently down loading the last 6 months, thats one trail im gonna do before i croak, im aiming for my mid fifties when all the kids have been kicked out and i can actually save some coin :rofl: theres some breathtaking country over there yonder:Punk:

[mattsdakar]

Thanks for posting, awesome scenery and a catchy we tune to match, like it!

[Crim]

bugga ya!:clap: now I have got to add that to the front of my trip from LA down to Teirra del Feugo, right - first step go and buy a lottery ticket, investigate boarding school options for the rug rats and long cheap world cruises for the wife...........

[GPS MAN]

I am a very good friend of the guy that mapped the TransAm Trail, Sam Correro.... He and I mapped the Shadow of the Rockies trail in 2008....

I rode the TransAm Trail in 2003....should anyone have any questions:scooter:

[dino3310]

bugga ya!:clap: now I have got to add that to the front of my trip from LA down to Teirra del Feugo, right - first step go and buy a lottery ticket, investigate boarding school options for the rug rats and long cheap world cruises for the wife...........

:rofl: :stupid:

[reofix]

turning 60... Trans America would do ... 10-12 weeks ... any takers?

[Phreaky Phil]

I am a very good friend of the guy that mapped the TransAm Trail, Sam Correro.... He and I mapped the Shadow of the Rockies trail in 2008....

I rode the TransAm Trail in 2003....should anyone have any questions:scooter:I have been interested in the TAT since i saw it on the internet in 98. In those days I had to go to the library to access the net. Most people ride it solo, ive only seen 1 or 2 ride reports on it 2up. The one that springs to mind was a couple on a KTM950 who did it all. Are there many bits that would pose a problem 2up ?

[bart]

The TAT is on my 'to do' list. Might be 2025 before I get there though, if they haven't paved it all by then.

note to self....got to stop breeding. Bloody kids are killing my fun fund.

[GPS MAN]

I have been interested in the TAT since i saw it on the internet in 98. In those days I had to go to the library to access the net. Most people ride it solo, ive only seen 1 or 2 ride reports on it 2up. The one that springs to mind was a couple on a KTM950 who did it all. Are there many bits that would pose a problem 2up ?

The mountain passes in Colorado can be a challenge:shit: Of course, the pillion can just walk to the top..about a mile walk on most passes and at altitude:angry:

The most challenging part of the ride is the SAND in Utah:angry:.. But, Sam has mapped alternate routes around these sections. I would highly suggest that if you are going 2 up to avoid these sections:yes:

Other than that allow about 4 weeks to ride the TAT, don't push yourself and have a GREAT TIME!:scooter:

[gav24]

The TAT is on my 'to do' list. Might be 2025 before I get there though, if they haven't paved it all by then.

note to self....got to stop breeding. Bloody kids are killing my fun fund.

SNAP!

Especially the "note to self":bye:

but 2013... Hmmm... maybe if no more sproggs arrive....better start gaining a few credits with the missus... Would love to though:yes::yes:

[bart]

SNAP!

Especially the "note to self":bye:

but 2013... Hmmm... maybe if no more sproggs arrive....better start gaining a few credits with the missus... Would love to though:yes::yes:

2013....if I sell my car....give up beer....what's the going rate for a kidney....shouldn't need 2 of them if I give up beer....hmmmmm....what would it cost....20k?....:yes:

[marks]

I rode the TransAm Trail in 2003....should anyone have any questions:scooter:

Do you offer guided tours?

[Phreaky Phil]

2013....if I sell my car....give up beer....what's the going rate for a kidney....shouldn't need 2 of them if I give up beer....hmmmmm....what would it cost....20k?....:yes:Depends on how much beer you drink on the way :laugh: Oh thats right, you gave up !! Seriously tho, Depends on if you camp or motel/cabin. I Canada & Alaska, we averaged out round $300 per day for 2 of us. Accom, food, fuel and sundries. That was NO camping.

[gav24]

2013....if I sell my car....give up beer....what's the going rate for a kidney....shouldn't need 2 of them if I give up beer....hmmmmm....what would it cost....20k?....:yes:

So thats $150 per day each, 4 weeks is 28 days. Guess that adds up to $5200.
Cheap as chips!

Oh yeah I forgot about Flights
and shipping or buying a bike there
and insurance
and...
Probably gonna be $20k in the end... each:gob:

Right Bart, we need a few sponsors...

...or...

...the other option is el cheapo...
Camping
Buy a cheap old XL250 / 400 each over in the US (quick look on ebay is about $1500)
Screw the insurance etc
Maybe work our passage over on a ship!
Hit the trail like a couple of hillbilly outlaws -Yeee Haaaaaw, blazing a trail to the wild west:Punk:

Reckon we could get it down to sub $10k each.....
but I might just keep saving/dreaming instead:bye:

[GPS MAN]

When I did it in 2003....think I spent around $4000 for the trip:yes:

The bike was a 2002 Honda XR650R with an IMS Ralley Tank, 7 gallons not liters:shit:

We camped for 2 nights, then one night in a motel to clean up mostly:shit:

You need some sort of GPS, don't get lost:sick: Enduro route chart holder

Map holder, recommend Cyco Active..just clips on the bars:yes:

Gear for all types of weather, as noted in the vid

You will go through 2 sets of tires:scooter:

My chain and sprockets made the whole trip:sunny:5000 miles of it:done:

It will put the biggest smile:yes: on your face you've ever had:rockon:

Did me anyway:bye:

[bart]

You'll have to have a rerun a decade after your first go. 2013 anyone? You can be tour guide.:scooter:

The bike option is interesting. Would it be cheaper to send a bike over, or buy one there?

[marks]

You'll have to have a rerun a decade after your first go. 2013 anyone? You can be tour guide.:scooter:

The bike option is interesting. Would it be cheaper to send a bike over, or buy one there?

you could pencil me in for that :yes:

[GPS MAN]

I'd do it again:rockon:

I owe a trip to both my boys.....promises, promises:shit:

My experience of people coming over from other countries is:

It's best to buy a bike there and sell it when you complete the trip:yes:

Sam would even help us coordinate bike purchases..he has done this for many out of country riders...

So, when do we go:rockon:

[marks]

So, when do we go:rockon:

well I'll have get our bathroom done up first or my wife will take a rusty knife and turn me into a bmw rider

[Box'a'bits]

well I'll have get our bathroom done up first or my wife will take a rusty knife and turn me into a bmw rider

What............, add extra silicon?
I've already turned that mod down.........

[Box'a'bits]

The beauty of taking your own is that then its a known quantity & you can prepare it for the trip. Otherwise you are reliant on what you can fnd in a small window of time available when you arrive.

Of course you can always arrange for someone to buy it for you. Selling before you leave is also an issue if you are time constrained, unless you have already arranged a purchaser.

[Padmei]

Must be someone here that deals in shipping large amounts of stuff that could slip in a few bikes for a slab of beer?:shifty:

[bart]

My thoughts are....buy a second hand, fairly unmolested DR over there. Butcher mine for spares and send them over (including the tank????). Ride the tits off it and send back whatever's salvagable

Only problem is, I'll have to keep my DR650 for the next 3 years. :sick:

[Phreaky Phil]

What do you reckon ? What bike would make or could be built into a 2 up TAT bike. Big and heavy will be really hard work in sand or slippery stuff. Smaller and lighter is much easier to handle, but it has to be big enough for 2 + gear for 2. Camping gear ? Big load !

[gav24]

Hi a friend of mine just shipped a bike (old MX bike) back from the states to NZ it was suprisingly cheap. I think about $700 NZ door to door (or maybe to Tauranga port if he had to pick it up)
So thats less than $1400 if you deliver to and pick up from the US and NZ ports? He used a Firm that usually brings in american cars...
There are also stories I've heard of GP MXers taking whole bikes exluding tyres and plastics to GPs in far off places like Russia and South America, in Suitcases....:shifty:
Maybe Bart is on to something by taking your own "extras"... (but then again they are usually much cheaper in the US)
If there is enough interest a bulk shipping quote would be cheaper maybe - sure that you could get 2 or 3 DR's in a bike crate designed for one electra-glide:blink:
Pencil me in for 2013 though - Thats the sort of notice I need to get saving/planning, would be good if theres a group as well, then I dont have to buy one of those new fangled GPS things - Its all bloody elastic-trickery to me:blink: I think a roll chart is my level of technology:yes:

[Waihou Thumper]

I dont have to buy one of those new fangled GPS things - Its all bloody elastic-trickery to me:blink: I think a roll chart is my level of technology:yes:

Within a couple of hours you would have it sussed! Read the manual over a coffee or three, play with the buttons and you are away! Spend the 14 hours on the plane getting used to it, track your flight..:yes:
Then again, I don't know your level of technology either....:gob: You may be right...:Oops:

[Phreaky Phil]

Hi a friend of mine just shipped a bike (old MX bike) back from the states to NZ it was suprisingly cheap. I think about $700 NZ door to door (or maybe to Tauranga port if he had to pick it up)
So thats less than $1400 if you deliver to and pick up from the US and NZ ports? He used a Firm that usually brings in american cars...
There are also stories I've heard of GP MXers taking whole bikes exluding tyres and plastics to GPs in far off places like Russia and South America, in Suitcases....:shifty:
Maybe Bart is on to something by taking your own "extras"... (but then again they are usually much cheaper in the US)
If there is enough interest a bulk shipping quote would be cheaper maybe - sure that you could get 2 or 3 DR's in a bike crate designed for one electra-glide:blink:
Pencil me in for 2013 though - Thats the sort of notice I need to get saving/planning, would be good if theres a group as well, then I dont have to buy one of those new fangled GPS things - Its all bloody elastic-trickery to me:blink: I think a roll chart is my level of technology:yes:If he got it landed to his door for $700 then thats a bloody good deal. You can get a price quoted for shipping and that doesnt sound to bad but there a usually a lot of hidden cost and fees that aren't mentioned.

[bart]

The depreciation of a bike riden by Bart over 5000 miles would probably be more than 2k. :scooter:

Sending a bike over may be a viable option. At least you could set it up exactly how you want. :yes:

[gav24]

We're off then!
2013 it is.. maybe... erm ....sort of....possibly...:shifty:

I'll try and find out about shipping from my mate, and post back here.

But 2nd hand bikes are stoopidly cheap in the states - at the moment. One you get off the plane, what do you need to do to ride one legally in the states - Insurance? Registration? WOF?
What about riding an NZ registered bike in the US - If not much for that option then license plates and a Reg/WOF ticket would fit easily in hand luggage:shifty::innocent:
... along with a few choice parts of my DR - would buy a big tank in the US though...

Questions questions?
Pretty bloody keen on 2013 - Dont tell the missus just yet though!

[reofix]

Maybe Aug -Sep time frame ... Would like to take my time though . To hell with blatting across america at 300-400 miles a day

[richyrich]

Ii wouldn't mind having a go at the tat.
i could cannibalize my dr for all the good bits:yes:
which would be best way-east to west or opposite way? .

[bart]

Ii wouldn't mind having a go at the tat.
i could cannibalize my dr for all the good bits:yes:
which would be best way-east to west or opposite way? .

Apparently the maps are only for east to west.

http://www.transamtrail.com/

You buy the maps, roll charts, and gps stuff for US$290

[cooneyr]

Apparently the maps are only for east to west.

http://www.transamtrail.com/

You buy the maps, roll charts, and gps stuff for US$290

If you have a GPS route there should be no issues ding it the "other way". Most GPS units will run backwards along a route and you can convert them easily on a PC anyway.

Roll charts are directional though unless you have a damn good head for numbers (lots of subtraction), really trust the distances and can get left means right and right means left correct every time. The road names will all be what you are turn off rather than what you need to turn onto.

[3L4NS1R]

We're off then!
2013 it is.. maybe... erm ....sort of....possibly...:shifty:


My current travel plans take me to end of 2011. With a year of rebuilding my finances, I think this would be an excellent way of putting me back to $0.

Consider me in for this possible trip.

[XF650]

Local guy is headed over there shortly, along with a bunch of other Kiwi's - their bikes are in transit.

[gav24]

undercurrents of interest...

...cool....

So far its decided that we will do East-West

Will have to go when the trail on top of the Rockies is open/clear - Thats mid winter for us:yes:

I think that I'm camping as much as poss to save on $$$

I already know that I want to use a bike like a DR650 (cant afford a HP2 enduro yet!) but we need to figure out whether to take our NZ bikes or buy then sell/ship back US bikes. Basic shipping costs are fairly easy to get - but what about the extras that may be needed, I bet just insurance if riding a Kiwi plated bike?
If we ride US bought bikes what else do we need to do, rego/warrants or US equivalents...

Of course all of these statements should have very liberal use of the words "If" "maybe" and "might". I'm mad keen, but a young family, mortgage and lack of $$$ may put paid to a 2013 plan. But if I can nail down a few costs and a definate plan now it might just happen...

Reckon Barts in the same boat as me on this one, aye Dad!:shutup:Mums the word for now!:shutup:

[gav24]

Local guy is headed over there shortly, along with a bunch of other Kiwi's - their bikes are in transit.

Lucky B:shutup::sick::shutup::sick:rd!

Is he on this Forum? We need to hit him up for details! and I hope a ride report for us "dreamers"!

[XF650]

Lucky B:shutup::sick::shutup::sick:rd!

Is he on this Forum? We need to hit him up for details! and I hope a ride report for us "dreamers"!

Mate doesn't visit here (too busy riding his new Tenere 660) but I'll chase him for more info in a couple of days..
I met another one of the group at the Field Days who's doing a story of the trip for one of the bike mags (riding a XChallenge).

[Padmei]

What about taking a bike over there without smog plumbing or if it's removed? Might not pass their equivalent of WOF?

[bart]

What about taking a bike over there without smog plumbing or if it's removed? Might not pass their equivalent of WOF?

I was thinking about that. They have strict rules on exhausts etc, especailly in California.

I'm swaying towards selling my bike just before going. Buying new over there. Throwing on a big tank and a few minor mods. Send it home once the ride's complete.

It may be easier to start new than prepare a bike for such a long ride (new brakes, chain, sprockets, bearings, cables, and all those other bits you don't usually worry about). :blink:

[bart]

Reckon Barts in the same boat as me on this one, aye Dad!:shutup:Mums the word for now!:shutup:

Yeah, the TAT seems like just the right adventure for me. As much as I'd like to see Africa or South America, I don't think I could be assed with all the boarder crossings, language barriers, bribery, hostage dramas, getting raped etc.

The chances of me going are remote, but a remote chance is better than no chance. I can earn a lot of browny points in 3 years. :innocent:

[gav24]

Yeah, the TAT seems like just the right adventure for me. As much as I'd like to see Africa or South America, I don't think I could be assed with all the boarder crossings, language barriers, bribery, hostage dramas, getting raped etc.

The chances of me going are remote, but a remote chance is better than no chance. I can earn a lot of browny points in 3 years. :innocent:

:yes::yes::yes:

I actually think that most of my brownie points will come from language barriers, bribery, hostage dramas, and hopefully getting raped between me and the missus!:love::innocent:

Like you say though, perfect adventure for us though, and 300 - 400 miles per day blatting across america sounds like my kind of fun for a few weeks.

My DR originally came from the US (as did all of the suzuki summer special bikes a couple of years back) and the new Pro Circuit pipe and jet kit came from California so I'm sure that issue isnt huge....
I am swaying hugely between taking my own bike - getting it set up before shipping would be half the fun and a great build up for the trip, and buying one ready to go in the US.
Need some shipping figures and paperwork hassles cleared up to really make my mind up.

Bart, a remote chance is a good start - from small acorns etc etc...:shifty:

[Eddieb]

These guys along part of the TAT, and around some fantastic country.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=603054

[gav24]

Just made a quick call to Taurus shipping, and they reckon these are some ballpark figures to go on:-

1 bike in a crate AKL to LA = $1800 - $2000
up to 8 bikes in a 20 foot container = $4500
all riding gear and extras can be added to the crates if needed.

Other extras will be US port fees of around $7-800 per bike or $2000 for a container.

Plus each individual bike will need a Carnet so you dont sell it in the US, $???

Crate storage can be arranged at the port so same one can be used for return shipping, return is about $1200 - $1300 if same crate is used.

...... How does that grab anyone, now a few approx $$$ are known?

seems we need 8 of us I reckon, then we have to get them from LA to Tennessee... Road trip!:scooter:

This is only one quote - what about air freight to Tennessee direct? Hell, to save $$ I'll pack myself in the crate as well!:shit:

[Crim]

great RR - still going (I think) - also takes you through the build on a couple of DRs

http://seekingzero.com/reise/

[richyrich]

good work there gav,looks like 2 of us from dunners so far. early days yet.
container sounds like the way to go.

[Phreaky Phil]

Were these figures return or one way. ? As far as im aware you do not require a carnet for North America. Although there is nothing to say you cant use one as it can be a handy document. I'm not sure if you have to pay any bond if not using a carnet.
Just made a quick call to Taurus shipping, and they reckon these are some ballpark figures to go on:-

1 bike in a crate AKL to LA = $1800 - $2000
up to 8 bikes in a 20 foot container = $4500
all riding gear and extras can be added to the crates if needed.

Other extras will be US port fees of around $7-800 per bike or $2000 for a container.

Plus each individual bike will need a Carnet so you dont sell it in the US, $???

Crate storage can be arranged at the port so same one can be used for return shipping, return is about $1200 - $1300 if same crate is used.

...... How does that grab anyone, now a few approx $$$ are known?

seems we need 8 of us I reckon, then we have to get them from LA to Tennessee... Road trip!:scooter:

This is only one quote - what about air freight to Tennessee direct? Hell, to save $$ I'll pack myself in the crate as well!:shit:

[gav24]

Were these figures return or one way. ? As far as im aware you do not require a carnet for North America. Although there is nothing to say you cant use one as it can be a handy document. I'm not sure if you have to pay any bond if not using a carnet.

Yeah prices were one way, Cheaper on return as you should already have the crate. I could only find that a carnet was "recommended" for the US. I only had chance for a really quick look at the Taurus website at work todayand it was not that detailed as it covered shipping to other countries as well.
Main thing I got was that its cheaper to just use a 20 foot container if you possibly can, even if theres just 3 of you its still cheaper it seems with 8 the costs get very reasonable. Way better than I thought like $4500 + $2000 to get there split 8 ways and less for the return, Thats about $800 each way, each. Sure there are other lesser costs as thats just crate, shipping and Port fees. So hopefully $2000 each, total shipping there and back, based on 8 bikes.

More research to come...:shifty:

[Phreaky Phil]

Yea even $2000 is still cheap. Ours to Canada was round $3500 all up, although we flew them up to make sure they got there without delays. What is worth it is to pay an agent to do all the documentation at the other end and do all the customs clearance so that when you arrive you can just unload and go

[gav24]

What shipping firm / agents did you use and I'll make a few calls.

[DR650gary]

Just buy them from a local ADV member and sell em. Bunch of guys did that recently for an OZ trip and a couple actually made money. Even a dealer would do you a special deal with a repurchase. You have to factor in local insurance and from what I read, that may focus your attention.

Sounds like a great trip but it is hardly a Trans Africa saga that would require a specially modified bike. Post a start thread on a US forum and I am certain you would have you bikes sorted in days so all you have to do is get there and fiddle with them a bit.

I may have missed the point I suppose about a man and HIS bike but a trip is a trip and I would rather do it on your bike than miss out due to lack of funds.

Check these out and see how helpful our American friends can be.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=2

Cheers

[Phreaky Phil]

We used Greenfreight in Auckland. They specialize in airfreight. I have spoken with them regarding airfreighting bikes over but have not talked $$ It seems San Fran is better to airfreight into as they have stopped flying Jumbos into LA and replaced it with one of these "new fangled" things that cant carry as much freight. !! He said there was a company that is aligned with the airfreight companys that truck freight and could freight to Knoxville , about 80km from the start of the TAT. I have no idea of cost, we were just talking of what can be done.
A container full of bikes is going to be much cheaper.
Have you thought about how to get from LA to the start of the TAT, distance roughly 3000km.
Ride them
U haul
Freight overland
Sea freight from NZ to somewhere closer

[DR650gary]

Check this out.

http://www.getrouted.com.au/

[Phreaky Phil]

Just buy them from a local ADV member and sell em. Bunch of guys did that recently for an OZ trip and a couple actually made money. Even a dealer would do you a special deal with a repurchase. You have to factor in local insurance and from what I read, that may focus your attention.

Sounds like a great trip but it is hardly a Trans Africa saga that would require a specially modified bike. Post a start thread on a US forum and I am certain you would have you bikes sorted in days so all you have to do is get there and fiddle with them a bit.

I may have missed the point I suppose about a man and HIS bike but a trip is a trip and I would rather do it on your bike than miss out due to lack of funds.

Check these out and see how helpful our American friends can be.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=2

CheersI tend to disagree with you there, I think 5000miles of Trans America Trail will be just as taxing on a bike and body as 5000miles travelling in Africa. There may be more in the way of bike shops and services etc in the US, but bike preparation for either trip is crucial to avoid breakages on a trip. Even then there is the unforseen things that youve got to deal with on the way.

[DR650gary]

My point was that a bike prepared here or there will be vastly better than prepared in darkest Africa. Cheaper to buy and prepare in the USA and then sell than prepare here, ship there and then ship back.

Spoke with a guy this am that did the Cape York trip from Brisbane and they looked at both options but ended up buying and selling in OZ. I really doubt the logistics outweigh the benefits of a locally produced bike. His mate had done the USA thing and shipped their bikes there, his words.."never again".

I reckon the US riders would be so helpful, as are we, that the journey would be much less stressful with local bikes, but I ain't on the trip:mellow:

Cheers

[Squiggles]

I'd buy a fully farkled one in the US (Just browsing the for sale @ advrider makes you :gob: at prices) and bring it back here after :rockon:

[DR650gary]

I'd buy a fully farkled one in the US (Just browsing the for sale @ advrider makes you :gob: at prices) and bring it back here after :rockon:

The best idea by far. The savings on the yummy bits alone would cover the shipping cost home. Check out the rebates possible in buying a European bike, in Europe, riding it and shipping home. Makes you want to go just for the savings, let alone the ride:yes:

[Antonio]

http://www.depot4motorcycles.co.nz

[Squiggles]

The best idea by far. The savings on the yummy bits alone would cover the shipping cost home. Check out the rebates possible in buying a European bike, in Europe, riding it and shipping home. Makes you want to go just for the savings, let alone the ride:yes:

I mean shit, theres a guy there whose just finished the tat asking 2800 for his DR (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=605083)


http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=605245
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=596734
:drool:

[gav24]

Thanks for all that info,

I would be on a very tight time frame at the start and finish of the trip so waiting to sell a bike would be a pain in the behind.

I quite like the idea of buying there and shipping back though.... could be a plan, especially if i can add a few more bike goodies for my old MXers to the crate. I have found heaps of places that will ship back to NZ, not many to the US though...???

I'll spend some time later checking out all the links you posted guys, Thanks for the help and ideas.

No one seems to be saying much about the paperwork / insurance / rego and associated costs of buying and riding a US bike, what about shipping back and deregistering in the US etc? Anyone have any ideas or places to go to find out?

Anyone know anything?

[Phreaky Phil]

I mean shit, theres a guy there whose just finished the tat asking 2800 for his DR (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=605083)


http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=605245
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=596734
:drool:
I think you misread the price, it was $3900 US which works out to $5400 NZ
you will probably get stung GST on the way back in to.

[Phreaky Phil]

Thanks for all that info,

I would be on a very tight time frame at the start and finish of the trip so waiting to sell a bike would be a pain in the behind.

I quite like the idea of buying there and shipping back though.... could be a plan, especially if i can add a few more bike goodies for my old MXers to the crate. I have found heaps of places that will ship back to NZ, not many to the US though...???

I'll spend some time later checking out all the links you posted guys, Thanks for the help and ideas.

No one seems to be saying much about the paperwork / insurance / rego and associated costs of buying and riding a US bike, what about shipping back and deregistering in the US etc? Anyone have any ideas or places to go to find out?

Anyone know anything?
I have been looking into the insurance and have a lead on something (travel insurance) Most companies will only insure you to ride motorcycles on roads. Some of the trails on the TAT may not fall under this category and you dont want to give an insurance company any reason to deny your claim. The costs of an injury over there are incredible. I believe your bike only needs to be registered here and is ok to ride here but I have to confirm this. In Canada we had to purchase there compulsory 3rd party insurance and that allowed us to be legal in Canada and the US. I assume this will be the same in the US. ?
We will be taking our own bike over as it will be modded and set up for 2up.

[gav24]

Good job Phreaky Phil,
That company "Get Routed" seemed like a go-er for a while but on further reading it seems that a trip from NZ to US wouldnt work with them? Seems alot like you have to fit in with their plans / dates etc anyway.
I like their crateless shipping though, super simple!
Finally, their prices dont seem that much cheaper than using a conventional firm and one of their crates...Less flexibility on dates as well.
Keep us updated on that pesky paperwork and legal stuff though, good to feel like some progress is being made, this trip could happen yet...:scooter::scooter:

[bart]

.............:corn:

[clint640]

I'd also give Chris Edwards at Go Logistics a call, they have experience shipping bikes to the US & their prices & service getting us to Oz & back last year were pretty good. For us with 2 bikes in one crate Go Logistics worked out quite a bit cheaper than Get Routed. We got crates from the local bike shop, adapting/packing/unpacking did take a bit of time but it wasn't too big a deal.

The TAT, or a US trip incorporating large sections of it, is definitely on my list for future rides. I'd consider buying a bike over there to do it, then finding somewher to store it & returning for a Southern US/Mexico trip the next year, then maybe again to look at Canada... If I had 6 months off to do a big Nth America trip in one go however I'd probably ship the KTM over.

Cheers
Clint

[gav24]

Cheers, will give them a bell in the next few days.
Seems like an even better idea to put 2 bikes in one modified crate....

Could be a plan Bart - go for a end of June - end of July trip 2013, and back for my liitle guys 5th birthday (He's 2 tomorrow)... Put that popcorn down and get earning points!:yes::love::innocent:

Meet us there GPS Man?...Got a bike there already Wade?

[bart]

Mmmmmm, popcorn....

[Eddieb]

After I started this thread and seeing the interest it generated Al bought a DVD he owns to the MMMMM to lend to me.

Published by Motorcycletraveldvds.com it's titled 'How to Prepare for and ride The Trans-Am trail' so I'll be watching that soon.

It looks like the same people also do DVD's for Baja, Moab and NZ.

[navek]

Looks like a must do, looking to plan a TAT/Canadian trip sometime 2011, 2012, anyone thinking same lines for collaboration.

[gav24]

I would love a 2011 or 2012, but due to financial and family (arent they the same thing!) reasons looks like a June / July 2013 trip could be on the cards, the TAT is the first plan, but the Mexico - Canada route may be completely finished (off road) by then and that could be a bit quicker / cheaper...
All just getting info together at the moment so I know whether its in my price range!

Could be keen for a minimum of 4 day training / wilderness camping (no top 10's!) off road ride when the weather is dryer, maybe all those interested would like to join me, and we can see how it goes, after 4 days of smelly riding and smellier camping the idea of 4 weeks of the same may not appeal... and you can save (or sell) some more for motels every night!

[marks]

so I'll be watching that soon.

video night at Eddies :yes:

he'll buy lots of beer :Punk:

[Eddieb]

video night at Eddies :yes:

he'll buy lots of beer :Punk:

While I'd like to do that I'm in the middle of renovating and you wouldn't get more than 3 people in front of the TV due to the mess. I'm living as if in a bedsit in the lounge at the moment.
The vege bin in my fridge is full of Woody's too.

If anyone has another venue it could be arranged.

[navek]

I would love a 2011 or 2012, but due to financial and family (arent they the same thing!) reasons looks like a June / July 2013 trip could be on the cards, the TAT is the first plan, but the Mexico - Canada route may be completely finished (off road) by then and that could be a bit quicker / cheaper...
All just getting info together at the moment so I know whether its in my price range!

Could be keen for a minimum of 4 day training / wilderness camping (no top 10's!) off road ride when the weather is dryer, maybe all those interested would like to join me, and we can see how it goes, after 4 days of smelly riding and smellier camping the idea of 4 weeks of the same may not appeal... and you can save (or sell) some more for motels every night!

Good idea, count me in, be good to see if we can pack sensibly and still live for a week on the trails. Need good lead time though for planning.

[DR650gary]

Not interested in the trip to Cape York? Seems a few guys do that on a regular basis. Certainly closer.

I had a mate do it and he loved it. Plenty of ADV riders in OZ to help out as well.

Don't leave home till you've seen the country, well their's anyway.

After Saturday we'll be welcomed with open arms.

Cheers

[navek]

Not interested in the trip to Cape York? Seems a few guys do that on a regular basis. Certainly closer.

I had a mate do it and he loved it. Plenty of ADV riders in OZ to help out as well.

Don't leave home till you've seen the country, well their's anyway.

After Saturday we'll be welcomed with open arms.

Cheers

Yes will do Cape York some time, have done a short excursion with http://www.fairdinkumbiketours.com.au/ into Kuranda National Park Rain Forest from Cairns they provide DRZ400's it was different and good fun.

I am a starter for the full Cape York some time. I guess best to do the far away ones first, the nearer to home can be done at any time.

[DR650gary]

My mate and his friends bought the bikes in Brisbane before they got there and left them for sale when they went home. Cheaper than hiring. Big journey but a ton of fun he said.

Cheers

[gav24]

Excuse my ignorance but is the Cape York ride the North-South or vice-versa over the blue mountains?
Think I saw a guy on discovery do a bit of that on an XR400 a few years ago (when I lived in a house that had a TV aerial reception and there was cable on the street...long story...)
Coming from Europe my knowledge of the adv world is mainly the Euro to Africa stuff, OZ is a bit of a gap for me Geographically.
From what I saw though that ride looked like some good trails and not too much of the mind and butt numbing long straight roads.
...I did see some cool footage of last years finke desert race - that looked like great fun! Its on the list!

[DR650gary]

Have a gander digger:blink:

http://www.insuremyride.com.au/imr/bike-stuff/dirt-bikes/rides/cairns-cape-york-cape-york-capers

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CirWnYHO5Ew

[XF650]

Lucky B:shutup::sick::shutup::sick:rd!

Is he on this Forum? We need to hit him up for details! and I hope a ride report for us "dreamers"!

Here's the blog: http://www.travelblog.org/North-America/United-States/California/Lawndale/blog-519833.html
Also check out their previous South American trip reports.

[GPS MAN]

Having ridden the TAT I can say that You will have the time of your life:yes:

If you want/need anything in the way of ???? PM me and I'll do my best to answer:innocent:

I got an email from Sam Correro, the TAT father, today. He said that Rosco Pennell and mates are headed over..or should be there NOW:gob:

Make it happen:rockon:

I'll go!

[gav24]

Waiting to hear back from the really friendly people at Go Logistics. Gave the plan to the very friendly Alanie and she's emailing me with a few options once she speaks to people at various air ports and sea ports. If no news by wednesday I'll give them a call again .. Stand by...

[Squiggles]

Waiting to hear back from the really friendly people at Go Logistics. Gave the plan to the very friendly Alanie and she's emailing me with a few options once she speaks to people at various air ports and sea ports. If no news by wednesday I'll give them a call again .. Stand by...

Pretty sure i used them to import a motor from the states, trouble free :yes:

[gav24]

Got a really comprehensive email from Go Logistics today.
Lots of acronyms, and things I dont fully understand yet so cant really give you any final prices yet, If I get time at work tomorrow I'll give them a ring to try and decipher the email.

They did say that its $5000 to airfreight one way to Tenessee though...:gob:

I like boats:yes::yes::yes:

[Phreaky Phil]

As it turns out I have been wiring a house for a client that is owns a shipping business and went to his office the other day. He wasnt there, but I got chatting with the guy who does the freighting and they can, and have shipped bikes and cars around. He said the price fluctuates quite a bit, but gave me a similar ballpark figure to ship a 20ft container.
Rossco Pennell has a website http://www.travelblog.org/North-America/United-States/California/Lawndale/blog-519833.html
One of the guys with him is a Naki Guy, so I might have to "download" him when he gets back.
The Trans America Trailbike has been purchased:yes: The Beemer is to big :gob: to do it all 2up and I dont want to have to do the "big Bike Bypasses"
Let the "BUILD" begin

[gav24]

Hey guys,
Some sad news for me from back in the UK, and looks like I may be heading back over for a while to sort and support. My riding plans are on hold at the moment, just cant even think about it really.
My partner and I had just been discussing the option of a joint holiday, her and the kids and her folks doing a tour of the US with me meeting up from time to time during the TAT. All seemed to good to be true...
Still the desire is still there to do it one day, but there is too much to get through before I can pick that up again...:bye:

[Phreaky Phil]

Thats a shame. Just keep it on the back burner bubbling away, Thats where its been with me for the last 10 years, Starting to come to the boil now though !!

[gav24]

Yeah definately on the back burner for a bit, but dont let that kill this thread, it might be a good escape to check on the plans .
Keep it bubbling:scooter::scooter:

[bart]

That's a shame Gav. I'm still keen on having a look in a couple of years time. :scooter:

[Eddieb]

I still have Al's DVD on prepping for the TAT. I'll be sending it back to him soon.

[Phreaky Phil]

I still have Al's DVD on prepping for the TAT. I'll be sending it back to him soon.Much to be learnt from the video ? We opened a T.A.T bank account today. Found on our last trip that it was a good incentive having a seperate account to put money into. The new bike prep has started in true Phreaky Phil fashion by pulling it to bits !!

[JATZ]

The new bike prep has started in true Phreaky Phil fashion by pulling it to bits !!

:Punk:
This should be good :corn: How about some pics eh ?

[Phreaky Phil]

:Punk:
This should be good :corn: How about some pics eh ?Ok, ya talked me into it. PS: I boxed up the other 350 bits today and will post them off this week

[marks]

I still have Al's DVD on prepping for the TAT. I'll be sending it back to him soon.

post it to me and I'll ride up and deliver it to him :scooter:

[gav24]

Shall I bring round a few beers one night then....?
Could do with a blokes and bikes night at the moment:yes:

[dino3310]

Ok, ya talked me into it. PS: I boxed up the other 350 bits today and will post them off this week

Naa dont post it mate, make him do another ride :shifty:

[Phreaky Phil]

Naa dont post it mate, make him do another ride :shifty:He might need to bring the BIG up if had to carry a box that big home:scooter:

[JATZ]

Naa dont post it mate, make him do another ride :shifty:


He might need to bring the BIG up if had to carry a box that big home:scooter:

Don't tempt me..... :D

But if you did, I reakon some time around the end of Sept might work :innocent:

[3L4NS1R]

Just wanting to say I'm still in for a 2012 or 2013 trip! Now got a couple mates there to pay a visit to, so double the reason to make the trip!

[gav24]

Yeah still keen too, but had to step away from organising this as I have some other family stuff come up that will stop me being at all useful. Will keep checking back here though to see how the plans are going, and maybe join in when my life is back to normal again.

[navek]

With all these goings on, is 2011 a reality for a TAT? If yes I would like to put my hat or helmet into the ring!:yes:

Who is the ringleader or is it the blind leading the blind?

Kev

[bart]

Sorry, but way too soon for me. I'm busy buying more houses and having babies and....(well it's not me having the baby, but you know what I meen)....and working and stuff. :shit:

[gav24]

Who is the ringleader or is it the blind leading the blind?



I think I may have been for a while...
Like Bart, I also have a new baby on the way, (well you know - the missus does!) early next year, and my Dads just found out that he has terminal brain cancer, so I'll be back in the UK at some point. Thats why I'm stepping out of any "ring-leading" type activities for a while, still really keen and after all the ups and inevitable downs of the next 12 months I will probably need the TAT or similar more than ever.
So please, get organising and if I'm available and can afford it - I'm in! Most likely 2012 though.

[Dont Know]

I still have Al's DVD on prepping for the TAT. I'll be sending it back to him soon.

Hi Eddie, no rush to return the DVD, rent it out to a few of your mates, get them keen to ride the TAT
I’m off to Darwin on Thursday 9th, going to join a group of 6 other riders and take 3 weeks to ride to Melbourne on rented DR650’s, heading over to the Western Australia boarder first and then down the Tanami Road, Alice Springs, Oodnadatta track, Coober Pedy, Flinders Rangers and the likes, intention is to see some of the tourist bits but via the more remote and less used roads.
Will cover something like 6,000 kms so I guess I’m to have a few sore bits at the end of the ride.

This is training for the TAT!!

Cheers
Al

[Phreaky Phil]

That sounds like a neat trip. Would like to get back to Aus to ride again. May be after the TAT.
Hi Eddie, no rush to return the DVD, rent it out to a few of your mates, get them keen to ride the TAT
I’m off to Darwin on Thursday 9th, going to join a group of 6 other riders and take 3 weeks to ride to Melbourne on rented DR650’s, heading over to the Western Australia boarder first and then down the Tanami Road, Alice Springs, Oodnadatta track, Coober Pedy, Flinders Rangers and the likes, intention is to see some of the tourist bits but via the more remote and less used roads.
Will cover something like 6,000 kms so I guess I’m to have a few sore bits at the end of the ride.

This is training for the TAT!!

Cheers
Al

[Eddieb]

Hi Eddie, no rush to return the DVD, rent it out to a few of your mates, get them keen to ride the TAT
I’m off to Darwin on Thursday 9th, going to join a group of 6 other riders and take 3 weeks to ride to Melbourne on rented DR650’s, heading over to the Western Australia boarder first and then down the Tanami Road, Alice Springs, Oodnadatta track, Coober Pedy, Flinders Rangers and the likes, intention is to see some of the tourist bits but via the more remote and less used roads.
Will cover something like 6,000 kms so I guess I’m to have a few sore bits at the end of the ride.

This is training for the TAT!!

Cheers
Al

Nice, I'm quite keen to do something like that. I'll be in Melbourne the 12th to 19th but I guess you'll only be half way there when I leave.

[3L4NS1R]

With all these goings on, is 2011 a reality for a TAT? If yes I would like to put my hat or helmet into the ring!:yes:

Who is the ringleader or is it the blind leading the blind?

Kev

Yeah - I'm out for 2011 - I'm traveling the other half of the world. 2012 is really the closest that I can go at the moment, unless I win lotto miraculously.

And I'd say it's blind leading the blind (I mean laissez faire) at the moment till we get a firmer idea of what we're actually doing/when we're doing it...

[bart]

Just finished reading 'Twisting Throttle America' by kiwi Mike Hyde. He rode the 50 states in 60 days (32000 km) on a v-strom. Very entertaining read. :scooter:

The logistics of his ride would be very similar to what we're trying the achieve. The last 4 pages break down all his expenses. I won't type it up here, as I'm sure he'd rather you buy his book (and he may be lurking). :innocent:

Have a look next time you're in a book shop.

[3L4NS1R]

Just finished reading 'Twisting Throttle America' by kiwi Mike Hyde. He rode the 50 states in 60 days (32000 km) on a v-strom. Very entertaining read. :scooter:

The logistics of his ride would be very similar to what we're trying the achieve. The last 4 pages break down all his expenses. I won't type it up here, as I'm sure he'd rather you buy his book (and he may be lurking). :innocent:

Have a look next time you're in a book shop.

Oh sweet it's out now... I read his Twisting Throttle Australia, still is the only travel book I've actually finished - I usually get sick and tired of humour attempts or constant complaining by travel writers but he strikes just the right balance.

Will have to pick it up next time I'm at the library!

[GPS MAN]

All I need to know is when do we leave?????:yes:

[tri boy]

Hmmm, TAT adv 2013 you say.<_<
pow wow needed.
If Phil/Dawn, a dopey DT230 rider from Welly way and a few other loose units can commit by winter 2011, then my 1/2 mongrel I am sporting for this ride could well develop into a raging.........., you get the idea.
To buy there, or build n ship?
I would be leaning towards cutting a deal with a shop over there. Or a well sorted private purchace.

But the seed is planted:yes:

[DR650gary]

http://www.globebusters.com/expeditions/north-america

Now there's a plan :eek:

[Woodman]

surely there must be some good used DR/KLRs available for purchase over there that could be ridden then sold on ebay or appropriate brand specific anarak forum.
The loss would be way cheaper than shipping costs, and hell you may even make a profit

There are enough people here who could tell you what to look out for on these bikes etc.

[Phreaky Phil]

Hmmm, TAT adv 2013 you say.<_<
pow wow needed.
If Phil/Dawn, a dopey DT230 rider from Welly way and a few other loose units can commit by winter 2011, then my 1/2 mongrel I am sporting for this ride could well develop into a raging.........., you get the idea.
To buy there, or build n ship?
I would be leaning towards cutting a deal with a shop over there. Or a well sorted private purchace.

But the seed is planted:yes:I would just box your XLR up and take that. Its already perfect for the TAT

[tri boy]

Yup. That idea has crossed my mind.
It would mean I might have to farkle it a bit more, and freshen the motor/suspension up.
Negotiations have been started with kanny.:msn-wink:

[marks]

Hmmm, TAT adv 2013 you say.<_<
pow wow needed.
If Phil/Dawn, a dopey DT230 rider from Welly way and a few other loose units can commit by winter 2011, then my 1/2 mongrel I am sporting for this ride could well develop into a raging.........., you get the idea.
To buy there, or build n ship?
I would be leaning towards cutting a deal with a shop over there. Or a well sorted private purchace.

But the seed is planted:yes:

maybe I need to pootle up to Inglewood next weekend to discuss?

perhaps we could borrow GPS mans prep DVD and watch it?

[Phreaky Phil]

Pootle on up. Havent seen the prep video, could be worth watching. There's been some very good threads on ADV rider ive been watching. This guys doing it in reverse, from Oregon to Tennessee. Heaps of pics. I reckon Tennessee to Oregon still the best direction to do it.
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=614433

[tri boy]

Do that Mark. A pow wow will be needed.
I bet there are a fair few ghosts hiding in them thar TAT hills:innocent:

[Sputnik]

Have done the TAT 1 and half times. GO FOR IT - Bloody good ride!
First trip I shipped the KLR to and from the states. Not costl at all. Second tirp I bought a KLR n Boulder Colorado and went 2 up with my wife. No way I would get away twice on my own!! Shipped that machine back to NZ.

As the GPS man says a couple of the Colorado pases would pose a challenge 2 up and note they are rarely open much before mid July.

Camp if you want however we flagged the camp gear and used motels. Cheap, good bed, showers and air-conditioned. Great after riding in 110degree F all day. The best part... you are not carrying less weight. Those passes are 12,000 feet plus.

Shipping: Contact KIWI SHIPPING based in Los Angeles. They have agents here in NZ and have there own containers. Current costs $350 handling cost NZ. US$700 for shipping plus AG and Customs charges at US end. Do the ride and drop the bike bike back to Kiwi Shipping depot in LA. No crate required as they strap it into a container, usually with a car or two. They handle a lot of bikes going to and from the USA. Wih Dept of Homeland Security getting invovled with imports there is a little more paperwork required. Fairly sraight forward. Have details if anyone wants them.

If you have time to spare allow some days to explore more of Colorado, and Moab trails.

GPS man. Chris and Spice in Boulder say we should get together sometime. Like to hear more on The Shadow of The Rockies route.

Great ride, nice people, amazing country, incredible amount of wildlife encountered. Take your cameras ..... and helmet cam! .... Camelback absolutely essential.

KLR,s now sold and New Tenere parked in the shed. Best bike for the route? .. doesn't matter! If its a trail or enduro or dual-sport it will make it. something with a reasonable fuel range helps.

If I can add to the GPS man info feel free to ask.

[tri boy]

Great info sputnik.:niceone:
Welcome to the site. Be prepared to have your knowledge raped by dirty dualsporters.

[Sputnik]

tri boy. anytime. excuse spelling errors and mistakes in my previous post. One eye on Stoner at Spanish MotoGP. Yep no tent gear, lighter bike. Cheers

[Drogen Omen]

Check out Compass Expeditions trips around South America.

www.compassexpeditions.com

<object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/O5KUAWy23Jo&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/O5KUAWy23Jo&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>

nice short 14 day ride and cheap for an all inclusive tour is HIGHLIGHTS OF PERU (http://www.compassexpeditions.com/2008-2009/tour-highlights-of-peru-14-days.html).

HIGHLIGHTS OF PERU: Peru & Bolivia
15 days: 26 Jul - 9 Aug 2011 - 4 BIKES LEFT / 20 Aug - 3 Sept 2011 - 1 BIKE LEFT
Rider: US$ 5,590 / US$ 3,490

Best trip i recommend is PATAGONIA EXPLORER (http://www.compassexpeditions.com/2008-2009/tour-patagonian-explorer-17-days.html)

PATAGONIA EXPLORER: Argentina & Chile
18 days: 10 March - 27 March 2011 - 3 BIKES LEFT
Rider: US$ 7290 Co-Rider: US$3690

[marks]

Yep no tent gear, lighter bike.

sounds like my kind of tat
I'm a cheap motel whore :yes:


Check out Compass Expeditions trips around South America.


can you say the word SPAM?

[Drogen Omen]

can you say the word SPAM?

???

just putting it out there...

[Phreaky Phil]

Advertising for commercial rides have a place, its not here though :Offtopic:

[Phreaky Phil]

Have done the TAT 1 and half times. GO FOR IT - Bloody good ride!
First trip I shipped the KLR to and from the states. Not costl at all. Second tirp I bought a KLR n Boulder Colorado and went 2 up with my wife. No way I would get away twice on my own!! Shipped that machine back to NZ.

As the GPS man says a couple of the Colorado pases would pose a challenge 2 up and note they are rarely open much before mid July.

Camp if you want however we flagged the camp gear and used motels. Cheap, good bed, showers and air-conditioned. Great after riding in 110degree F all day. The best part... you are not carrying less weight. Those passes are 12,000 feet plus.

Shipping: Contact KIWI SHIPPING based in Los Angeles. They have agents here in NZ and have there own containers. Current costs $350 handling cost NZ. US$700 for shipping plus AG and Customs charges at US end. Do the ride and drop the bike bike back to Kiwi Shipping depot in LA. No crate required as they strap it into a container, usually with a car or two. They handle a lot of bikes going to and from the USA. Wih Dept of Homeland Security getting invovled with imports there is a little more paperwork required. Fairly sraight forward. Have details if anyone wants them.

If you have time to spare allow some days to explore more of Colorado, and Moab trails.

GPS man. Chris and Spice in Boulder say we should get together sometime. Like to hear more on The Shadow of The Rockies route.

Great ride, nice people, amazing country, incredible amount of wildlife encountered. Take your cameras ..... and helmet cam! .... Camelback absolutely essential.

KLR,s now sold and New Tenere parked in the shed. Best bike for the route? .. doesn't matter! If its a trail or enduro or dual-sport it will make it. something with a reasonable fuel range helps.

If I can add to the GPS man info feel free to ask.Thanks Good info. Were those figures you were quoting for 1way or return ?
Dawn & I dont want to camp as it will be to much gear to carry. Want to travel light as possible. Camping gear for us adds another 10kg minimum and theres only 1 place to put it, out back where it f**ks up the handling

[Drogen Omen]

Advertising for commercial rides have a place, its not here though :Offtopic:

good point, sorry didn't think of that...

[Sputnik]

Here are some updated costs. I would still all at least us$700 for shppinfg to and from USA and ag & Customs charges on the US end.

Here is the response I got:
"Thanks for your query, please find attached a costing to get your bike
ex Chch depot to Los Angeles.
The return cost in one of Kiwi Shipping's containers will be USD495 plus
NZ landed fees of NZ$450"

Something to consider. If you are going as a group I suggest you may be able to negotiate a cheapercontainer rate.

The person to contact at the NZ end is :
Jeff Larsen
Mainfreight International Ltd

[Sputnik]

oops computer probs.

Jeff is in The Wellington office.

Would be worth talking to Rossco's team when they get back to compare costs. Rossco uses another shipping agent I believe.

[Phreaky Phil]

Thanks, I have met one of the guys on Rossco's crew who is from here in NP and I intend to "download" as much info as possible from him when they get back. Those prices sound quite good. I will look into it further.

[trustme]

I'll find a 20' box rate for you to Long Beach including return & a box rate out of Philly if you are too tired to ride back across the country. Should get 10 bikes & certainly 8 in a 20'er . Will give you the info on Friday night.

[Phreaky Phil]

I'll find a 20' box rate for you to Long Beach including return & a box rate out of Philly if you are too tired to ride back across the country. Should get 10 bikes & certainly 8 in a 20'er . Will give you the info on Friday night.Ride starts in Tennessee and finishes in Oregon

[Phreaky Phil]

I'll find a 20' box rate for you to Long Beach including return & a box rate out of Philly if you are too tired to ride back across the country. Should get 10 bikes & certainly 8 in a 20'er . Will give you the info on Friday night.
Thanks Paul for the info. It compares with the others. About $5k-$5.5k seems to be the going rate for a 20 ft container. The info Paul gave me has a breakdown of the costs. If anyone wants to see it I can scan it and email or post it here

[young1]

Team I am an interested "Lurker" in this forum...

[Box'a'bits]

Mandy & I are quite interested in this as well. 2013 suits in terms of Katherine's schooling & age (so we can finally leave her to it). :yes:

[young1]

To make this a true coast to coast does anyone know how far it is to ride from (say) New York or New Orleans (both big ports for shipping bikes to) to the start of the TAT?

[Phreaky Phil]

To make this a true coast to coast does anyone know how far it is to ride from (say) New York or New Orleans (both big ports for shipping bikes to) to the start of the TAT?
Its about 1000km from New York to Jellico (start of TAT)
The nearest East coast is about 600km.
New Orleans is actually south. In the Gulf of Mexico.
The nearest city to the Start is Knoxville

[young1]

Its about 1000km from New York to Jellico (start of TAT)
The nearest East coast is about 600km.
New Orleans is actually south. In the Gulf of Mexico.
The nearest city to the Start is Knoxville

That opens up some interesting options though, to ride all the way across the Continent. Be interesting to ride trail bikes across the Hudson bridge at the start of an adventure like that :-)

I have emailed both addresses on the TAT web site to ask (I see that one has bounced back already as undeliverable).

UPDATE - two days to ride from the Big Apple to the start of the trail

[Phreaky Phil]

That opens up some interesting options though, to ride all the way across the Continent. Be interesting to ride trail bikes across the Hudson bridge at the start of an adventure like that :-)

I have emailed both addresses on the TAT web site to ask (I see that one has bounced back already as undeliverable).Have you studied any of the TAT threads on ADV rider ? Theres a lot of them and some neat Videos to be found on Utube. Bikes have to be shipped to somewhere, the most common being LA or San Fran. If the bikes are crated individually its easier to start and finish in the same place so the crates can be reused. Rossco Penell and crew started and finished in LA I think. They rode there bikes from LA to Tennesse to the start. Long way !

[bart]

What the hell....take an extra month and go across Canada to the start line. :scooter:

[young1]

Have you studied any of the TAT threads on ADV rider ? Theres a lot of them and some neat Videos to be found on Utube. Bikes have to be shipped to somewhere, the most common being LA or San Fran. If the bikes are crated individually its easier to start and finish in the same place so the crates can be reused. Rossco Penell and crew started and finished in LA I think. They rode there bikes from LA to Tennesse to the start. Long way !

Yep have been on advrider but not YouTube. I like the idea of starting at the Atlantic and finishing at the Pacific.

It would be a big round trip riding from the West Coast, monkey butt!!

[trustme]

Ports most commonly used are Long Beach [ LA ], Oakland [SF ] & Philly mid way between NY & Washington DC. Looking at a map Philly is very very roughly 1/3 the distance to Tennessee that you would cover from the west coast. It is a while since I shipped into Philly but I seem to remember it was bloody dear due to the Panama Canal etc.
Swires whose price I gave to Phil only go LA. Maersk who constantly bombard me with emails about how good they are have not reponded to my enquiry.
Will chase them along if you like.
Both would ship out of Tauranga & I can find a suitable place there for you to pack bikes
The figure I gave included an allowance for container cartage at each end to a suitable packing site. a NZ customs export entry & US customs clearance, $300 worth of phyto sanitary grade packing timber for blocking & chocking the bikes. Figure is perhaps a little high & could be carved back a little but gives you an idea, better high than getting a surprise further on down the track

[XF650]

These guys are back:
http://www.travelblog.org/North-America/United-States/California/Barstow/blog-534151.html
The blog is a bit confusing - looks like they split into 3 groups. Local guy (Bryan) reckons it's right up there for rides to do. His 660 Tenere went well and it was only in the knarlier bits where he missed his 450.

[Phreaky Phil]

These guys are back:
http://www.travelblog.org/North-America/United-States/California/Barstow/blog-534151.html
The blog is a bit confusing - looks like they split into 3 groups. Local guy (Bryan) reckons it's right up there for rides to do. His 660 Tenere went well and it was only in the knarlier bits where he missed his 450.
Im guna contact Dave who was on the ride, he lives in the Naki somewhere

[fleebag4@]

Any space for one more though i no where near 60 :) I've been looking at doing soe trips and i might be doing a quick Asia run (1-2 months) in 2011 though i'm always keen for a ride.

As for bikes, well, this has been of the main issues as what to do! Buying one from ebay is great but with it's pro's and con's. Some say it makes more for an adventure.... Anyway, one option i was thinking of is maybe buying a new bike there and brining back .....Okay, i pay for GST when it lands, but it will be about half since i would of owned it for a while and they are cheaper there. I'm not sure if you can claim the gst back when leaving..

Anyway, i haven't finalised my plans and would be keen on joining your trip though i'm no mechanic. Just an easy going guy:shit:

[GPS MAN]

A lot of guys do purchase bikes over there. Sam C. will help you if you decide to go this route....

But, nothing like taking your own bike:scooter:

A lovely ride:yes:

[Aslan]

My dearest has agreed in principle that if I want to do the TAT in 2013 - my 66th year God willing - then start saving for it now.

So Phil and Eddie (and others whose posts I've not read) - count me a definite 'keen, subject to whatever eventualities life may throw at us in the meantime'

Cheers S

[Phreaky Phil]

My dearest has agreed in principle that if I want to do the TAT in 2013 - my 66th year God willing - then start saving for it now.

So Phil and Eddie (and others whose posts I've not read) - count me a definite 'keen, subject to whatever eventualities life may throw at us in the meantime'

Cheers S
We've moved our target to 2012. 2013 is too far away. Can you save enough money by next year ?

[navek]

:yes:
We've moved our target to 2012. 2013 is too far away. Can you save enough money by next year ?

I would be keen to join a 2012 trip, any ideas on timing, approx costs etc??
Can be flexible on how and what we get to ride.

Kev

[Box'a'bits]

:bye: No way that we can do 2012, given that we are sending our daughter to France this April. :bye:

But still keen to springboard off all of your hard work / use your ideas / learn from your experiences.

Mandy did comment to me that she thought you weren't too far from being ready, given the work that you'd done of the DR. Looking good by the way.

[Aslan]

Phil & Steve - I'm with Steve on 2013 - 1 turn 65 in Dec 2012 - hence the desire to celebrate in 2013.

Depending on how late in 2012 you're going I could be convinced however :)

[Phreaky Phil]

:yes:

I would be keen to join a 2012 trip, any ideas on timing, approx costs etc??
Can be flexible on how and what we get to ride.

KevHi Kev, at the moment there is no organised trip. We have a few people who have expressed an interest in riding the TAT. Cost wise, maybe $15k. Would be possible to do it cheaper camping, but there are some fixed costs ie; airfares, bike freight/hire/purchase,fuel, food, insurance, etc. It would be in our winter/spring. It has to be after all the snow has melted in the high passes in Colorado. Unfortunately that means its guna be hot in most of it.
If there are people who are serious, a gathering should be organised to discuss things and some rides organised to see if people are compatable. By this I mean people ride and travel differently. If you like to get up at 6am and get riding early, your going to hate travelling with someone who doesn't wake before 9am and needs two coffees before packing his gear and isnt ready to ride before 10.30.
Some people stop every 10min taking photos, others for a smoke, and some dont stop much at all.
Over a weekend ride these things dont matter or even get noticed but over a month they can become an issue.
We met two guys riding together in Alaska. They rode at different speeds so they just arranged where they would meet each night rode there own way.
Lots to think about

[Phreaky Phil]

Phil & Steve - I'm with Steve on 2013 - 1 turn 65 in Dec 2012 - hence the desire to celebrate in 2013.

Depending on how late in 2012 you're going I could be convinced however :)

I'm not sure how late we can go before running into problems on the passes, Autumn would "sure be perdy" in Colorado. Ive been doing a bit of research into weather and temps in the various places on the TAT but havent decided on a definite month yet.

[Phreaky Phil]

:bye: No way that we can do 2012, given that we are sending our daughter to France this April. :bye:

But still keen to springboard off all of your hard work / use your ideas / learn from your experiences.

Mandy did comment to me that she thought you weren't too far from being ready, given the work that you'd done of the DR. Looking good by the way.
Thanks, the DR is coming along nicely. Will be getting some more rides in shortly on it. Just about got all the "must haves" done and on to the " I wants" soon. Muffler, carb and big bore :woohoo:

[navek]

Hi Kev, at the moment there is no organised trip. We have a few people who have expressed an interest in riding the TAT. Cost wise, maybe $15k. Would be possible to do it cheaper camping, but there are some fixed costs ie; airfares, bike freight/hire/purchase,fuel, food, insurance, etc. It would be in our winter/spring. It has to be after all the snow has melted in the high passes in Colorado. Unfortunately that means its guna be hot in most of it.
If there are people who are serious, a gathering should be organised to discuss things and some rides organised to see if people are compatable. By this I mean people ride and travel differently. If you like to get up at 6am and get riding early, your going to hate travelling with someone who doesn't wake before 9am and needs two coffees before packing his gear and isnt ready to ride before 10.30.
Some people stop every 10min taking photos, others for a smoke, and some dont stop much at all.
Over a weekend ride these things dont matter or even get noticed but over a month they can become an issue.
We met two guys riding together in Alaska. They rode at different speeds so they just arranged where they would meet each night rode there own way.
Lots to think about

My only problem would be the guy who does'nt do the dishes! Look forward to your plans etc.

Kev

[NordieBoy]

My only problem would be the guy who does'nt do the dishes!

But I'm not going, so no issues there.

[BMWST?]

Have you studied any of the TAT threads on ADV rider ? Theres a lot of them and some neat Videos to be found on Utube. Bikes have to be shipped to somewhere, the most common being LA or San Fran. If the bikes are crated individually its easier to start and finish in the same place so the crates can be reused. Rossco Penell and crew started and finished in LA I think. They rode there bikes from LA to Tennesse to the start. Long way !

here is an email i got after i enquired re bike freight auckland LA

Hello and many thanks for your enquiry below.

If your BMW R100 GS is delivered to our premises and we take care of all paperwork, transport to the port, shipping line fees and ocean freight etc to Long Beach port, the current inclusive costs would be NZ$885 with a shared-space in a 40' container

US arrival charges for port & Line fees, Customs clearance etc would be additional & your care and cost.

We hope this assists meantime. Please feel free to contact us with any further questions or instructions you may have.

Please note that you bike will need to be crated

Thanks
Daniel

[young1]

here is an email i got after i enquired re bike freight auckland LA

Hello and many thanks for your enquiry below.

If your BMW R100 GS is delivered to our premises and we take care of all paperwork, transport to the port, shipping line fees and ocean freight etc to Long Beach port, the current inclusive costs would be NZ$885 with a shared-space in a 40' container

US arrival charges for port & Line fees, Customs clearance etc would be additional & your care and cost.

We hope this assists meantime. Please feel free to contact us with any further questions or instructions you may have.

Please note that you bike will need to be crated

Thanks
Daniel

Confirming that is one way?

[gav24]

Hi, I posted on this thread a long while back after a ride and chat with Wade / GPS man I knew that I just had to do this one day. In the mean time i've had to take some time off bikes:bye: and be out the country for a while due to illness in the family.
Anyway, I'm back and still keen, but a new baby on the way may mean that even 2013 is too soon..:violin: But no harm in "keeping the dream alive" so If anyone is up for a group meeting and multi day ride (i'm keen for camping) in the next few months somewhere between New Plymouth and Wellington then I'm in.
I have done some adv coaching in the past so if anyone feels the need for some of that then it could also be a possibility for those heading off to the TAT...?
Just throwing my - soon to be very poor and tired - hat in the ring!

[GPS MAN]

Hey Gav...glad to see you are back.....

All I need to know is when do we leave for the TAT:yes:

[Phreaky Phil]

I am a very good friend of the guy that mapped the TransAm Trail, Sam Correro.... He and I mapped the Shadow of the Rockies trail in 2008....

I rode the TransAm Trail in 2003....should anyone have any questions:scooter:What month did you do the TAT in. ? Ive been doing some study into the weather and temps from June-October. June/July/August seem bloody hot. Mid/High 30's. September slightly cooler and less rain. Not sure how late you can go before running the risk of not being able to get through the high passes in Colorado due to new snow.

[gav24]

All I need to know is when do we leave for the TAT:yes:

Yeah, and all I need to know is how much and who's paying for me!:scooter:

Good to be back Wade, hope to meet up for a ride again soon:woohoo:

[eltone]

here is an email i got after i enquired re bike freight auckland LA

Hello and many thanks for your enquiry below.

If your BMW R100 GS is delivered to our premises and we take care of all paperwork, transport to the port, shipping line fees and ocean freight etc to Long Beach port, the current inclusive costs would be NZ$885 with a shared-space in a 40' container

US arrival charges for port & Line fees, Customs clearance etc would be additional & your care and cost.

We hope this assists meantime. Please feel free to contact us with any further questions or instructions you may have.

Please note that you bike will need to be crated

Thanks
Daniel

Hey BMWST

Who did you get your quote from - I'm thinking of doing the same to the US later this year?

Cheers:)

[trustme]

Try to get a cost for port handling charges,customs etc in the US . It may bump that figure up quite a bit. I gave Phil a quote a while ago for containers with a best guesstimate for charges in the US, not strictly apples for apples but will give an idea.

[eltone]

:niceone:
Try to get a cost for port handling charges,customs etc in the US . It may bump that figure up quite a bit. I gave Phil a quote a while ago for containers with a best guesstimate for charges in the US, not strictly apples for apples but will give an idea.

Hey thanks for that.

I took my bike to the USA last year and shipped it with Schenker. It was a struggle to say the least - the guy I was dealing with hadn't as it turned out shipped a bike to the US before. I virtually had to do all the approvals myself. The total cost was about NZD2500 one way for a crate with a 2009 Tenere in it.

The quote that BMWST got below must be just for the shipping with other "charges" still out there. I have made an enquiry to that firm (GT International Logistics) for this years pricing as well as Mondiale (who is used frequently by Rosco Pennell who regulalry ships a container of bikes for trips to South America and the USA last year.)

Cheers

:niceone:

[cold comfort]

im aiming for my mid fifties when all the kids have been kicked out and i can actually save some coin :rofl:

Yeah, very funny-as one in "mid fifties" still waiting for the departure of the liabilities and the arrival of said coin!

[trustme]

They leave , then they come back cos it's cheap & they want to save for a world trip, car , house.
What about my wants, what about my needs.?? In your dreams pal.:yes::yes::yes:

[GPS MAN]

When I go over I am going to do the "Shadow of the Rockie's" trail....Sam and I mapped about 1/2 of it and it ROCKS:yes:

Talking to Sam not long ago and he told me that he is going to finish that trail this summer....hope:corn:

[Sputnik]

Hey BMWST

Who did you get your quote from - I'm thinking of doing the same to the US later this year?

Cheers:)

Contact KIWISHIPPING.co.nz. Have used them twice already. Straight forward to deal with and very competitive prices.

Passes in Colorado usually not open til mid July due Snow. Yep the rest of the trip in the 90 to 110 degrees F but you soon get used to it. Humid in the East, dry heat, apart from rain storms, in central and western States. Expect fog all down the West Coast. GPS man can probably confirm that.

GO FOR IT!

[alane]

Been some great ride reports recently on advrider.
--jdrocks---xcrider--simonpig--one-less-harley etc
Did any other Kiwi,s beside the Dunedin boys who had a report going in the N.Z forum of ADV do it this year??
(Maybe thier plane crashed on the way home,as it came to an abrupt end,uncompleted.:shit:)

--Thinking I might give it a go.--next yr.------Lots-a questions.----
I,d be keen on buying a second hand bike (WR250R---DR650)& bringing it home.
Where do I find out the cost of importing one from???
What bike could you make money on??:blink:
Where do I find it-(bike-not money)ADV rider??? --Bikefinds--Craiglist--ebay ???
What time do I go?---looks like late july /early august.
Now long do I allow for trip/buying bike etc.---Would,nt want to rush it--want a bit of time to tell jokes & lies to the locals.::innocent:
Looks like abought 5 weeks "out on the trail".
What about medical insurance----essential,they say in U S A,
----------MMMMMMMMM!!!!! ---could go on & on.------
Couple of things I noticed ,reading the ride reports
Be a bugger if it rained while doing the dirt roads of Mississipi/Arkansas
Eastern Arkansas residents could be a bit dodgy.:blink:
I,m GPS illiterate---be important to become competent ,especially in the deserts of Nevada & Utah.--What,ll I buy to get started??Garmin cx60??
Where can a "Tight-Arse" get Sams charts cheap??
Accommadation is reasonable as hard times have hit the economy over there.:facepalm:
It gets high--- 13000ft in Colorado,so bike jetting on carby ones is important.
Enough Q,s for now.:shutup:

OH!! One more--:whocares:
Phreaky Phil & Dawn---I know your set to go next year 2 up----How,s your trip organising progressing???(Bike shipping---insurance---what time of yr,& how long for????etc,)

[richyrich]

i have a shit load of info re TAT,ask away and i'll see if i can help.
include utah when it rains re dirt and people were friendly the whole 8200 miles we travelled

[Phreaky Phil]

Been some great ride reports recently on advrider.
--jdrocks---xcrider--simonpig--one-less-harley etc
Did any other Kiwi,s beside the Dunedin boys who had a report going in the N.Z forum of ADV do it this year??
(Maybe thier plane crashed on the way home,as it came to an abrupt end,uncompleted.:shit:)

--Thinking I might give it a go.--next yr.------Lots-a questions.----
I,d be keen on buying a second hand bike (WR250R---DR650)& bringing it home.
Where do I find out the cost of importing one from???
What bike could you make money on??:blink:
Where do I find it-(bike-not money)ADV rider??? --Bikefinds--Craiglist--ebay ???
What time do I go?---looks like late july /early august.
Now long do I allow for trip/buying bike etc.---Would,nt want to rush it--want a bit of time to tell jokes & lies to the locals.::innocent:
Looks like abought 5 weeks "out on the trail".
What about medical insurance----essential,they say in U S A,
----------MMMMMMMMM!!!!! ---could go on & on.------
Couple of things I noticed ,reading the ride reports
Be a bugger if it rained while doing the dirt roads of Mississipi/Arkansas
Eastern Arkansas residents could be a bit dodgy.:blink:
I,m GPS illiterate---be important to become competent ,especially in the deserts of Nevada & Utah.--What,ll I buy to get started??Garmin cx60??
Where can a "Tight-Arse" get Sams charts cheap??
Accommadation is reasonable as hard times have hit the economy over there.:facepalm:
It gets high--- 13000ft in Colorado,so bike jetting on carby ones is important.
Enough Q,s for now.:shutup:

OH!! One more--:whocares:
Phreaky Phil & Dawn---I know your set to go next year 2 up----How,s your trip organising progressing???(Bike shipping---insurance---what time of yr,& how long for????etc,)
Hi there, Our plans are coming along nicely. We have another couple who are keen to try it 2 UP. We are moteling it all the way as we dont want all the extra weight of the camping gear on the bikes. We are going to allow 5 weeks for the TAT part of the ride.
AS for Sams route sheets, there seems to be quite a backlash against people wanting to copy the charts or get a free GPS file of the route. I'm in agreement.Its only $250 for Sams charts. He invented the TAT so he's entitled to the rewards from it.
As for the dirt roads. Run aggressive tires, not " dual sport " tires that look like road tyres. If it gets to slippery then we will have to wait for it to dry out or find tarmac to go around.
Most bikes seem to run ok up high. loosing power but ok. A quick fix can be remove the airbox lid. this will lean it out a bit. Or drop the carb needle 1 clip position. Or get a fuel injected bike !

[richyrich]

+1 on desent tyres,as the dirt roads on the TAT are just that,when it gets a bit of moisture,it gets as slippery as a slippery thing.
also if it hasn't rained in a while,which it was like when we went through OK,MS,UT,and most of NV,you can get a lot of bulldust which will
block your airfilter in short order.
we were cleaning filters every day in nevada,they were caked in dust, and the bulldust was pouring off the front wheel and passing between my legs about seat hight.(DR 650) just like riding through water.
also hake sure you have a desent bash plate,especially if you ride a late model klr

[Phreaky Phil]

+1 on desent tyres,as the dirt roads on the TAT are just that,when it gets a bit of moisture,it gets as slippery as a slippery thing.
also if it hasn't rained in a while,which it was like when we went through OK,MS,UT,and most of NV,you can get a lot of bulldust which will
block your airfilter in short order.
we were cleaning filters every day in nevada,they were caked in dust, and the bulldust was pouring off the front wheel and passing between my legs about seat hight.(DR 650) just like riding through water.
also hake sure you have a desent bash plate,especially if you ride a late model klrWere the bikes dusting there own filters or were you riding in the dust of other bikes ? I might try to get some filter skins. that would be easier than cleaning filters all the time. No KLR's for us. Ive got a DR650 and the other bike is a KTM990. I want to use the Pirrelli Scorpion Rally front and maybe Mitas E09 rear. May have to use a Dunlop 606 rear as I dont Know if the have Mitas tyres in the US. How many sets of tyres did you go through ?

[richyrich]

filters got dusted by themselves,that dust in nevada,just hangs in the air and carry some good filter oil.i kept my airbox standard.
klr had to have 2 major topend rebuilds due to ingesting dust and yes he oiled his filter.
re bikes at altitude in colorado,the dr was fine,didn't touch carby and the only noticable thing was the lack of power.
we did the hancock pass,which has been taken out of the tat maps,but well worth it.carry a 14 t sprocket as clutch will cop some abuse if you have to stop ,and would be handy in black dragon wash.
tyres,we used dunlop 606 front and rear,you would want to preorder tyres and have them sent ahead as finding desent dualsport tyres in small town(and even cities like little rock ak.) usa is next to impossible.most m/c shops stock either road or mx tyres.
ohh, and m'c shops are closed on mondays.

[alane]

Anyone willing to relay thier experience with this?????:yes:

Who with??

How much?

:shit: this end
etc--etc---

[ducatijim]

To do the TAT with a like minded group. I have trolled this whole thread to see wots wot but come away still a bit confused. Are 'we' talking winter 2012 or 2013?

I would be in for 2013.( body and mind still able)

I would however, while over there, take xtra time, prolly at end of TAT to travel the rest of the continent( be rude not 2?) so off the cuff I already bring more problems than solutions as I would ship home(?) seperately.

I have a fully farkled DR650 that would be a shame not to use,( the setup of which has very sucessfully taken me thru 18000km of Australias worst so I know it works well) so I would vote for taking own bikes over as you then have a bike youre familiar with and is set up to suit.

Just my 2c worth-put me down as in.

[richyrich]

Anyone willing to relay thier experience with this?????:yes:

Who with??

How much?

:shit: this end
etc--etc---

yeah,i bought my dr 650 off ebay for 2k kitted out with rack and panniers,all i had to do was chuck on my ktm bars and bashplate and fit a larger gas tank and she was good to go.
bike -2000 usd
florida sales tax-7.5%
rego or tag-14 months 400usd
insurance (manditory) about 50usd for 2months (got pulled up by the cops and had to show insurance card)
you would need a us address for rego and insurance
bringing bike home to possibly to build a world traveller out of it or just use it for a hack

[Phreaky Phil]

To get a bike back to NZ, factor in about $1200 shipping, 15% GST and getting it Vinned and regoed. That would require a headlight lense and probably speedo. I think the vinning is several hundred.

[alane]

To get a bike back to NZ, factor in about $1200 shipping, 15% GST and getting it Vinned and regoed. That would require a headlight lense and probably speedo. I think the vinning is several hundred.

Thanks Phill.
If thats the case,I dont think I,ll be bringing anything home.:blink:

[richyrich]

To get a bike back to NZ, factor in about $1200 shipping, 15% GST and getting it Vinned and regoed. That would require a headlight lense and probably speedo. I think the vinning is several hundred.

i was quoted 480 usd to ship to nz
pretty sure no need to change anything as last time i bought a new dr here,it was a us model and dealer replaced mph speedo for a kmph one

[richyrich]

will let you's know total cost when it gets here

[Phreaky Phil]

I was talking to Kiwi shipping a few weeks ago. LA to NZ was about $500US and then you get all the charges this end. They reckon allow a few hundred.

[alane]

[QUOTE=richyrich;1130181681]yeah,i bought my dr 650 off ebay for 2k kitted out with rack and panniers,all i had to do was chuck on my ktm bars and bashplate and fit a larger gas tank and she was good to go.
bike -2000 usd
florida sales tax-7.5%
rego or tag-14 months 400usd
insurance (manditory) about 50usd for 2months (got pulled up by the cops and had to show insurance card)
you would need a us address for rego and insurance
bringing bike home to possibly to build a world traveller out of it or just use it for a hack[/QUOTE

Does sales tax apply in all states???---and does redgo/tag cost differ between states??----I presume 14 months was the minimum you could buy,Richy??
It seems to me ,buying a bike would be the cheapest option,--a bit of a risk ,getting a reliable/suitable one. Also location (of purchase)important----idealy-----get one right near the TAT start, fly to it (Knoxville??)---farkle it a bit :blip:---ride back to port Orford/ L.A.:ride: --sell it ,or ship it.:banana:
One downside to shipping your own bike is getting it to the Tat start,---it takes time/$$$ to get across to east Tennessee ,weather you ride or get it transported.:yeah:

Will be interesting to see what the ACTUAL cost will be for your bike shipping Richy.:soon:

[ducatijim]

[(
One downside to shipping your own bike is getting it to the Tat start,---it takes time/$$$ to get across to east Tennessee ,weather you ride or get it transported.:yeah::

And that makes another adventure!

Its a plus really, not a downside to the adventurer is it not?

[richyrich]

[QUOTE=richyrich;1130181681]yeah,i bought my dr 650 off ebay for 2k kitted out with rack and panniers,all i had to do was chuck on my ktm bars and bashplate and fit a larger gas tank and she was good to go.
bike -2000 usd
florida sales tax-7.5%
rego or tag-14 months 400usd
insurance (manditory) about 50usd for 2months (got pulled up by the cops and had to show insurance card)
you would need a us address for rego and insurance
bringing bike home to possibly to build a world traveller out of it or just use it for a hack[/QUOTE

Does sales tax apply in all states???---and does redgo/tag cost differ between states??----I presume 14 months was the minimum you could buy,Richy??
It seems to me ,buying a bike would be the cheapest option,--a bit of a risk ,getting a reliable/suitable one. Also location (of purchase)important----idealy-----get one right near the TAT start, fly to it (Knoxville??)---farkle it a bit :blip:---ride back to port Orford/ L.A.:ride: --sell it ,or ship it.:banana:
One downside to shipping your own bike is getting it to the Tat start,---it takes time/$$$ to get across to east Tennessee ,weather you ride or get it transported.:yeah:

Will be interesting to see what the ACTUAL cost will be for your bike shipping Richy.:soon:

yep,sale tax for every state,some worse than others.
rego goes off your birthday and mine happened while i was there,so had to rego 'til next bday.
if you get hold of sam from trans am,he can organize bikes for you and also set them up ,also pick up anything you care to buy for a small fee and or gas money,also use his address for purchases .
although we ended up not using his services,he's very helpfull and alround good guy,i contacted him a couple of times re.trail maps and a finding the route to hancock pass(not in the route sheets anymore) from salida.
i'll definately go back and do the western half of the tat on a real dirt bike with likeminded mad bastards,freedom camp,and a cheap vehicle for
carrying gear/beer/spares . f@#k yeah

[alane]

And that makes another adventure!

Its a plus really, not a downside to the adventurer is it not?


Yeah! well ,if your times limited & you have to take the freeway---it could become a "mission"---i.e. boreing. :blink:

I talked to a guy yesterday who said he was shure he briefly went to sleep on his adventure bike traveling the freeway. :shit:
But otherwise----make it a pre--adventure---adventure.:yes:

[alane]

[QUOTE=alane;1130182672]

yep,sale tax for every state,some worse than others.
rego goes off your birthday and mine happened while i was there,so had to rego 'til next bday.
if you get hold of sam from trans am,he can organize bikes for you and also set them up ,also pick up anything you care to buy for a small fee and or gas money,also use his address for purchases .
although we ended up not using his services,he's very helpfull and alround good guy,i contacted him a couple of times re.trail maps and a finding the route to hancock pass(not in the route sheets anymore) from salida.
i'll definately go back and do the western half of the tat on a real dirt bike with likeminded mad bastards,freedom camp,and a cheap vehicle for
carrying gear/beer/spares . f@#k yeah

Taa! for that info Richy.

YEP! Sam seems like a nice guy according to reports from other TAT riders,some even stopping off @ his place for BBQ,s
(spose you,ve all read about it?:shutup:)