The Mountain Recon DS Ride, Monterrey, Mexico, Oct 11-14, 2007

[Trail Boss]

Attendees as of 10/08/2007:

1. Richard
2. Uncle
3. Dirtbike Dave
4. Mike Frederick (mff)
6. Dick Jacobs (triumphant)
7. Alan (Eulogite)
8. Dan VanDam
9. Jerry Powell
10. Milton Otto
11. busted knuckle
12. Tim (thumper)
13. Chuck (CeeBee)
14. Chuck Taylor
15. Zoot
16. Steve Smith
17. Doc (DrBlackBird)
18. Wattner
19. Bishop
20. Onian (Matt)
21. Frank Colson
22. James McCanless
23. Roger Dill (Stealth007)
24. Jeremy McReynolds
25. Rick200

6/25/2007 Hotel Update: Since some (most?) of us don't speak Spanish I will be communicating regularly with the owner of the Hotel Jardin (the hotel we are staying at for this trip) on behalf of our group so that enough rooms are set aside for us. In order for this to be effective, here's what I need from you to make this work - your firm commitment, as soon as you can make it, that you will be attending this trip. This way I can make sure enough rooms are reserved for us. Please don't wait till the last minute to sign up.


MAPS:
I've acquired some topographic maps from INEGI (the Mexican Governments agency responsible for mapping, census taking, etc.) for use during this event. They are detailed maps of the area we will be reconing and include most of the unpaved roads in the area.

I will post them to the Mountain Recon (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm) page on my web site. I recommend downloading these maps to your computer and then printing a copy of each to bring with you. If you don't have a color printer you can save the files to a disk or flash drive and have them printed at Kinkos or someplace similiar. I suggest printing it in color, on 11 x 17 sized paper.

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I'm organizing a dual sport/adventure ride in the Sierra Madre mountains south of Monterrey, Mexico for Thur- Sun, Oct 11-14, 2007. I invite all dual sport and adventure riders to join me at this ride, especially those with keen desires for adventure and exploration. I'll be posting the details on my web site but we can use this thread for on-going planning, organization, and communication.

The Mountain Recon (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm)

The basic plan is to link up in the town of Galeana (which is south of Monterrey) on Thursday, Oct 11, at 6 p.m. local time.

We will organize ourselves into 2-6 man recon teams and spend Friday & Saturday, Oct 12-13, riding/reconing the roads & trails in the Sierra Madre mountains. We will debrief each evening, followed by a sampling of the local fare and probably while consuming Mexican beer and other spirits.

On Sunday folks will head back home.

The ride reports I've read about this area make me believe it contains a really good mix of excellent dual sport roads and paved roads. And some great single track too.

It won't be hard to get there. It isn't all that far (only 460 miles from Austin) with freeway most of the way (boring, but fast). Crossing the border is simple and straightforward.

So, put in for leave, pack your duffel bag, and ride or trailer to Galeana on Thursday, Oct 11th. We are going to have a great time and do some fantastic riding.

I have written a ride guide to help those attending prepare for this recon. The ride guide is posted to my web site so anyone who wants a copy can download it.

The Mountain Recon Ride Guide (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm)

To save a copy to your computer, right click on the ride guide hyperlink and select "save link as".

T-shirt & Sticker
A friend of mine designed a logo for this trip. If you would like a t-shirt or sticker, you can order one from cafepress (http://www.cafepress.com/texasadventure).

Here is the logo he designed:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/RECON.jpg

The other side of the shirt has this logo:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/reconback.jpg

[Tourmeister]

ALL DS Riders...?

What if you get a turnout like you got at Junction? ;-)

And don't forget to post the "Rules" of the ride :-P :lol2:

<Tourmeister heads off to check his calendar...>

[Hotair]

I want to gooooooo!!!! But the Ural is too slow!!!!!!

[Cagiva 549]

I would be intrested in riding this area again , made a couple trips down there in the 80's . Wonder how much it's changed . SEYA

[Trail Boss]

Hotair,

You could always trailer the Ural there...


Cagiva 549,

Excellent. You are a prior service adventure rider with experience in the theater of operations. Perfect. I'm promoting you to squad leader in charge of one of the recon teams.

[Cagiva 549]

Just read the last post taged on to the Junction ride , my last trip to the area in 1990 all the riders wifes went , The ladies went shopping in Montery alone one day , no problums and rode in the hills 2 up no problums . That was almost 20 years ago . It was good country and good people that we met there . SEYA

[Trail Boss]

Thank you for the intel report, Sargeant Cagiva.

[Trail Boss]

<Tourmeister heads off to check his calendar...>

Captain Tourmeister,

Your extensive expertise in adventure ride operations and your recent cross-border excursion experience make you a natural choice for team leader during this operation. I hope your request for orders to participate in this operation are approved.

[KenH]

I just posted at the end of the TAR thread. I may be able to score some local connections in and around Monterrey and Saltillo.

[Trail Boss]

Ken,

Local connections! That is great! Thank you.

It would seem you are the perfect candidate for the Brigade S-2 (Intelligence) Officer job for this operation.

[hardybaker]

It this the same weekend as the BMW national rally (of Mexico), which will be held in Monterey? ( and the answer is no, the rally is the last weekend.) Over six hundred Beemers will be there. Probablly me too. Hardy
Hey Richard I'd like to be included.

[KenH]

I'll have to take a long, hard look at whether I go or not. There may be significant financial incentives for not missing work (like enough $$$$ to buy a new KLR).

[mff]

Sign me up.
Mike Frederick,
A friend of Uncle Rogers

[triumphant]

I'm up for this one. Already put in my calender.

www.dickjacobs.com
__________________________________________________ ____

'07 BMW K1200LT (So she can ride too)
'06 BMW HP2 Super Motard (Took the place of the GSA)
'07 BMW R1200GSA (South America on this one - totaled on the Tail of the Dragon)
'99 Cagiva GC 904 (Continental Divide Trail on this one)
'95 Triumph Trophy900 (Bar hopping)
'91 Ducati Strada 856 (Track bike)
'02 Bajaj Legend Scooter (When fuel @ $4.00/gal)

[nimrod]

I'm in! Sounds like a great time. Hopefully I'll be coming directly from Creel so the timing is perfect. Let me know how I can help. John

[Trail Boss]

I've located a hotel for us to stay in during this trip. It is the Hotel Jardin and is located in Galeana. This is a 26 room hotel and I understand they are motorcycle friendly.

Hotel Jardin
Intersection of 5 de Mayo & 15 de Mayo streets
Galeana, Mexico
telephone 826-213-0420 (if dialing from the USA dial 011 52 826 213 0420)

[AusFletch]

Saltillo absolutely rocks! We have always stayed in the same hotel just west of the z
zocalo and never paid more than $450NP. Great hotel with a secluded parking lot to
hide from the Transitos (long story). I think it is Hotel Mision??? I will see if I can confirm...
http://www.ausfletch.smugmug.com/photos/17761951-S-1.jpghttp://www.ausfletch.smugmug.com/photos/17761925-S.jpg

Conveniently enough that very same hotel is only a short walk from one of my favorite bars/restaurants in the world:
http://www.ausfletch.smugmug.com/photos/17762047-S.jpg http://www.ausfletch.smugmug.com/photos/17762045-S.jpg

The mountains between Saltillo and Monterrey beyond San Antonio and near the resort
Monterreal have some fantastic DS riding opportunities. The setting is quasi-alpine. In July/August the highs are never above mid 80's and it is comfortably dry. It reminds me
of northern New Mexico.
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/86522636-S.jpg http://www.smugmug.com/photos/86522835-S.jpg
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/86585857-S.jpg

In the highly unlikely event that trouble should find you, well, I have friends in the area.
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/86586601-S.jpghttp://www.smugmug.com/photos/86587613-S-1.jpg

I would love to go but have already double-booked that weekend with HU in Creel and
M2M in Marathon.

Have I mentioned that I love Saltillo??? You all are going to have a GREAT time.
Please don't tell anyone. :trust:
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/86596663-S.jpghttp://www.smugmug.com/photos/86595382-S.jpghttp://www.smugmug.com/photos/86596254-S.jpg

[Trail Boss]

AusFletch,

Sorry you won't be able to make it this year. Not to worry though, if things go as planned we will be doing this every year in the Fall.

[gsxrmike]

I am all set to go.. But i have never paid more than 200 pesos or 20 bucks for a motel room in Mexico????? 40 bucks is a little high for my cheap *** wallet. I may have to look around, I don't need the 5 star treatment, I will settle for a clean bed and hot shower, I am sure there is more like me out there,
Mike

[norestartswact]

I'm very interested......!

If trailered, where would truck and trailer be left?

[Trail Boss]

I am all set to go.. But i have never paid more than 200 pesos or 20 bucks for a motel room in Mexico????? 40 bucks is a little high for my cheap *** wallet. I may have to look around, I don't need the 5 star treatment, I will settle for a clean bed and hot shower, I am sure there is more like me out there,
Mike

Mike,

Split the room with another rider and BAM! it's $20 per person :-P

I'm sure there are some $20 hotels around Saltillo. Hopefully you can locate one.

[Trail Boss]

I'm very interested......!

If trailered, where would truck and trailer be left?

I'm probably going to trailer to Laredo on Wednesday night and overnight in a local motel. I will arrange to leave the truck and trailer in the motel parking lot until my return on Sunday.

If you trailer to Mexico, I'm sure you could leave truck/trailer at the hotel you are staying at in Mexico.

[slowoldguy]

Richard, me and my bunch ain't really into rallies (or any grouping of very many people, cities, or well....we just ain't that sociable to tell the truth;) but we do love to ride ) but I got to tell you, this kind of deal sounds too cool for words. I've sent links to my two nephews and three other riding buddies. Ever since I saw that thread on advrider, of that road between the two sheer canyon walls (my that's attractive) , I've been plotting to get down there somehow. But being limited in Spanish and not liking border crossings :eek: I thought I'd be limited to some Pancho Villa Tours type thing.

I saw reference to temp's still being pretty high, what are we expecting weather to be?

There should be enough dirt road and paved road for those of us on GS's and DL's, right? My bunch ranges from "single track capable" (the nephews), to "we might die" (the old farts).


I was told today to make sure everyone's passports are still good, over 6 months before expiration or they won't let us across. Have y'all heard that?

[Simmons1]

Hi Richard:

I may be game for this as well. Is this going to be a TAR like event with the rides starting and ending at the same Hotel every night?

I have never taken a vehicle across the border and I don't speak Spanish so I have no clue what is involved.

I have spent many enjoyable weeks in Saltillo in the past for work.

Thanks!

[Trail Boss]

slowoldguy,

Glad you hear you and team are thinking seriously about attending.

Historically, the weather that time of year in Saltillo is low in the high 50s in the mornings and highs in the mid-80s in the heat of the afternoon. A snap cold front might push the temps down to the low 50s/high 40s and a heat wave would push temps up to the low 90s. Not much rain that time of year either. So generally speaking I believe the weather will be perfect for adventure riding.

I believe there will be roads suitable for all types of bikes. I'm hoping some true "single track capable" bikes/riders show up to recon the single track for us. The rest of us on the larger adv bikes will be exploring the paved and dirt roads. I'll be riding my Wee-Strom and Uncle will be on his GS, so no single track for us.

I haven't heard that about the passports expiration.

[slowoldguy]

Richard, we'd be trailering to Laredo, also.

[slowoldguy]

I haven't heard that about the passports expiration.
__________________
Heck, it may not be true but a bud who scubas a lot and goes 3-4 times a year said it so I'd check it out. My bunch is good to go except maybe me :eek:I have to check mine.So generally speaking I believe the weather will be perfect for adventure riding. Weather sounds bueno. (I'm practicing. LOL.)

[slowoldguy]

Nm

[Trail Boss]

Rich,

Yes, the rides will begin and end at the same Hotel each night. That way we won't have to ride each day with our bikes loaded down with all our stuff.

I'm working on a ride guide for this event which will include info on the paperwork needed for border crossing. I should have the ride guide done in the next week or two and when it's done I'll post it to my web site in .pdf so anyone who wants to attend can download it.

[Cagiva 549]

All the routes in that area are dooable on big DS bikes . There are some goat trails that the locals used to ride on trials bikes but none are mapped and I dont know if they go from point A to Point B , I think they just wander around the hills as local access to the natives that live in the mountains . My main goal is to ride Huasteca Canyon from Santa Catarina to San Juan Bautista . I think that is dooable because I have seen photos of that trip with 4X4 in it . I know the road from San Juan Baustista to Arteaga is good though it was 15 years ago last time I rode it . There is a cut off road that goes into the mountains between Cola De Cabailo and San Juan Bautista That is very steep and narrow that gives you access to an awsome water fall a few hundred feet high down in a mountian canyon . It is supposably accessable frow the west by normal dirt roads , dont know , its not on any of my currant maps . for that road I would want the 450 . After 15 years I may not regoginize any thing there , May have to start from scratch , but looking forard to trying . According to the experts Passports are not required to drive accross the border till 2008 , only to fly . check the threads in ADV regional outer darkness , very good info there . SEYA

[slowoldguy]

David and Richard and anybody else who knows, I've been surfing the web ever since I saw this thread. It seems that there are substantial topo changes, and with that substantial changes in flora. What part of the area is the most verdant, or alpine? I've seen some waterfall pictures that are pretty outstanding and some pretty lush looking growth. And then I've seen the high desert which I am sure most of it is. Is it all scattered , or is one area more like what I want than others?

I'll try hard not to get as excited as I already am. ;)

[Cagiva 549]

The mountains that run south between Monterey and Saltilla are green , I have been to places that look like rain forest down in the bottom and desert on either side . One canyon I know 40 to 50 ft wide with thousand foot walls has a road through it . Horse tail falls is close to Santiago south of Monterey the road over the mountain to there is one of the best . The other falls up in the mountain I dont know a name yet is a mile down in a canyon , we rode donkeys to it last time I was there . There are some intresting photos of the area on Google earth some are far away from there location and the big falls is in the low reseloution area so no research there but I checked Hausteca canyon and it looks doable. SEYA

[slowoldguy]

David, which bike will you be taking? I'll be on my new Adventure, if I can learn to ride the big pig (just got it Wednesday). Right now I'd be more comfortable on the trusty GC, but I'm a quick learner. ; On the advrider link there is a link to a smugmug account that then has a link to a dude named Otto's smugmug account that has some pictures of a really cools Falls area. Could that be the one you are talking about?http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/gallery/1896527#95618061
Cascada Chipitin, Potrero Redondo

[Cagiva 549]

Thats the one . I wasnt sure about the name of the falls , There is another a few miles east of the high falls where that flow goes into a bigger river . not high more like huge rapids . I wasn,t sure if Chipitin was the high falls or where the two came together . O Yeha , photos are useless . The road into Chipitin from the east is very steep and very narrow I did it on a old KLR and two up on a KTM 2 smoke . I made her get off and walk a couple of places . There is a good road in from the west with real maps I'm sure we can find it . I probly will take the 950 , dont like the weight but it sure is nice to carry what you want . One hill climb up out of a river crossing on the Chipitin east road would be tough on the GC , I struggled with the KLR but who knows , it may be paved by now . Every thing we rode there 20 years ago was easy on the KLR with stock DS tires . Every body else was on dirt bikes but I had no problums keeping up and passing them when they had to lay there bikes down and drag them under downed trees in a forest fire area , mine had electric start . SEYA

[slowoldguy]

We're in. I've got me and two nephews in the "we're coming" camp.. Working on one or three more. I may try to do a jeep trip down to reconnoiter between now and then. Just need a jeep. :(

[Trail Boss]

We're in. I've got me and two nephews in the "we're coming" camp.. Working on one or three more. I may try to do a jeep trip down to reconnoiter between now and then. Just need a jeep. :(

If you (or anyone else here) does a recon, would you please let me know? There is one thing in particular I'd like you to check out during the recon.

[justin1889]

I'm one of the 2 nephews that slowoldguy is referring to. I was just curious if there were going to be any bump gates to venture though on this trip? If so what would be the chances of slowoldguy setting up a seminar (perferably on FM 350 near campwood) on how to properly ride though a bumpgate. :rofl:

[slowoldguy]

My O My. Try to teach the younger gen something useful and this is the thanks I get. Jeez. Hey, BTW if y'all are making any money off that You-Tube vid, I want my part. In cash. No checks.

And anyway, I was fully committed . What was I doing when I hit it? 30? Not my finest hour. :(

[Trail Boss]

2 wonderful things have happened in the past 2 weeks.

First, I was fortunate to meet a local Austin rider (trailblazer) who has explored this area multiple times on his KLX 650 and in his Jeep. He was kind enough to meet me and let me pick his brain about the area. His knowledge of the roads in the area is extensive and he provided some great route suggestions. His enthusiasm for this area and his descriptions of the roads/trails in the area convinced me we are in for an excellent adventure.

Second, I was able to contact a rider in Monterrey, Mexico who was able to help me with hotel information for hotels in the area.

So, based on my discussion with trailblazer and the hotel information from the Monterrey rider, I have changed our headquarters to Galeana, a town roughly in the middle of the area we will be exploring. My preference is always to stay away from major cities during events like this, but I had been unable to find out much info about any of the small villages there in the mountains, whether they would have sufficient resources to support us (gas, food, beer, etc.), and a hotel we could stay at. Thanks to the help of these 2 we now have a mountain pueblo to stay in during this event, getting us out of the city of Saltillo.

Here's the hotel info:

Hotel Jardin
Intersection of 5 de Mayo & 15 de Mayo streets
Galeana, Nuevo Leon, Mexico (town of Galeana, state of Nuevo Leon)
telephone 826-213-0420 (if dialing from the USA dial 011 52 826 213 0420)

I've already let Felix Sanchez, the hotel proprietor, know that we are coming and the dates we will be there. He was very receptive to us staying with him.

[Eulogite]

Have you got room for one more, Richard? If so, count me in.

[Trail Boss]

Have you got room for one more, Richard? If so, count me in.

Always room for one more. Welcome!

[Tourmeister]

Okay... I can't stand it... I am gonna have to start working on making this happen for me! Not sure if I will ride the whole way or trailer to the border.

Anyone else trailering to the border? Where are you going to leave the truck/trailer?

[RockmanTex]

Richard, add me to the list. It looks like a trip one doesn't need to miss out on. Scott, I will probably trailer to the border.

Steve
07 DRZ400S
06 Wee Strom
03 ST 1300

[Trail Boss]

Welcome to the ride, rocketmantex.

[Trail Boss]

Tour,

I haven't worked out the details yet, but Dirtbike Dave & I are going to trailer to the border on Wednesday evening and stay in a hotel on this side of the border Wed night. I'm hoping to leave the truck/trailer at the hotel we stay in Wed night.

[Trail Boss]

Here is a really good ride report on advrider of a father/son trip to the Sierra Madre mountains we will be riding in. Enjoy.

1100 miles / 9 days Sierra Madre, Mexico (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=240088)

[Eulogite]

I'll be bombing down I-35 Wednesday afternoon from Dallas to Laredo. Anybody else? Rich?

[Simmons1]

If I can go, I am trailering to the border. KLR no likey 500 miles of interstate. Any interest in trailering to the border?

I am still working through the logistics of going. Its only two weeks after I get back from riding in Spain/France and two weeks before the Fall Color Tour in Clarksville, Arkansas I will be close to being out of vacation for the year.

[Trail Boss]

Alan,

Dirtbike Dave & I are trailering together and expect to leave Austin around 5 p.m. (Wed is a work day for us). Originally I intended for us to overnight in Laredo, but since our destination is now Galeana instead of Saltillo, I'm considering a route to Galeana from McAllen.

If we go in at Columbia, I'm thinking it would be really fun to enter into the mountains at Santa Catarina and run south through Huasteca Canon, San Juan Bautista, Laguna de Sanchez, Mesa de Oso, Casillas, Rayones, & then Galeana. So far that seems to be the most interesting way to get to Galeana from this part of Texas and should be easily do-able in a day starting from Laredo or Columbia.

I haven't come up with an interesting route from McAllen to Galeana yet. Still thinking and looking at my map.

[Eulogite]

KLR no likey 500 miles of interstate

ZX-11 no likey Mexico?


Its only two weeks after I get back from riding in Spain/France

:bow: I like the way you casually dropped that into the conversation.

[Eulogite]

I'm considering a route to Galeana from McAllen.


Then I better leave Dallas by noon on Wednesday! :jammin:

[Simmons1]

ZX-11 no likey Mexico?




:bow: I like the way you casually dropped that into the conversation.

ZX11 no likey dirt, double track or single track.

All it takes is $$$ and vacation time. We saved for 3 years to be able to go ride in Europe again.

[Trail Boss]

I have written a ride guide to help those attending prepare for this recon. The ride guide is posted to my web site so anyone who wants a copy can download it.

The Mountain Recon Ride Guide (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm)

To save a copy to your computer, right click on the ride guide hyperlink and select "save link as".

[slowoldguy]

Great job Richard!

The list grows. I think after the phone call today I can safely say that my group is now 4. So that'd be me, nephew #1 justin1889, nephew #2, and an unnamed Texas Oilman (who can't figure out yet how to post on the site).

As we will all be on the aforementioned "multi-cylindered" 600 lb Vstroms and GS Adventures, we will be doing the "dirt-lite" version of this trip. Our recon's will be limited to the paved backroad twisties and the more traveled dirt roads, hopefully connecting two twisty roads together. But I hope we find plenty of those.;)

Looking forward to it and hope our recon expeditions are as useful to others as the more adventurous ones.

I think we are following along with your thought process on the trip down. Trailer to the valley and cross there and come in a different route. I'll be studying my atlas.

[Tourmeister]

Richard, does the hotel person speak English well enough to take reservations from someone that does not speak a lick of Spanish? :doh:

[Trail Boss]

Richard, does the hotel person speak English well enough to take reservations from someone that does not speak a lick of Spanish? :doh:

Unfortunately, no.

Here's a possible solution: In mid-July I will call Felix (the hotel proprietor) with our updated attendance figure and see if there is any problem with setting aside a sufficient number of rooms for us. Then, I will keep him regularly updated on our numbers as the ride approaches, to ensure we don't run into a situation of not enough rooms for all our riders.

If we end up with more riders than he has rooms then there is another hotel in town and I will do the same thing there.

Here's what I will need to make this work - a firm commitment as soon as possible from those who are going so I can give Felix accurate numbers as to the number of rooms we need.

[Tourmeister]

Put me down. I will make it a priority to attend.

[Trail Boss]

Put me down. I will make it a priority to attend.

Excellent! Think this trip will have events as bizarre as our last one? One can only hope.

[Tourmeister]

As long as it is not my tires that are going flat, bolts snapping, or.... :doh:

[Eulogite]

I'm committed, Richard. Your ride reports and others have me itching to see some of these places and to have a guide for the first trip is priceless.

I have over three months to practice my hablo espanol.

Donde es el casa de peepee? :rofl:

[MIGHTYMOUSE]

If you guys do decide to go through McAllen I have a safe place for you to keep your trucks and trailers.

From looking at the map the town your staying at looks to be quite a ways from Monterrey and the area we have ridden at (la cienega) so plan to get up early and ride all day to cover that much ground. We regularly put in over 100 miles riding and dont travel that far.

The picture in my avatar is me riding through one of those canyons down there close to Cola De Caballo.


Yes alot has changed in twenty years and much road is paved that was not before. I have heard of that other waterfall but we have not ventured that direction yet.

Have fun.

[Tourmeister]

If you guys do decide to go through McAllen I have a safe place for you to keep your trucks and trailers.

Do you live down there?

I can haul up to five bikes and four other people besides myself with all their luggage. I'd want to leave Wednesday to get there in the evening.

[Cagiva 549]

If you guys do decide to go through McAllen I have a safe place for you to keep your trucks and trailers.

From looking at the map the town your staying at looks to be quite a ways from Monterrey and the area we have ridden at (la cienega) so plan to get up early and ride all day to cover that much ground. We regularly put in over 100 miles riding and dont travel that far.

The picture in my avatar is me riding through one of those canyons down there close to Cola De Caballo.


Yes alot has changed in twenty years and much road is paved that was not before. I have heard of that other waterfall but we have not ventured that direction yet.

Have fun.

I rode that canyon in spring of 89 after hurricane Gilbert devistated the area . there was no road then , the bridges were logs laying across the creeks . Looking foward to seeing what it looks like now . SEYA

[Trail Boss]

I've acquired some topographic maps from INEGI (the Mexican Governments agency responsible for mapping, census taking, etc.) for use during this event. They are detailed maps of the area we will be reconing and include most of the unpaved roads in the area.

I will post them to the Mountain Recon (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm) page on my web site. I recommend downloading these maps to your computer and then printing a copy of each to bring with you. If you don't have a color printer you can save the files to a disk or flash drive and have them printed at Kinkos or someplace similiar. I suggest printing it in color, on 11 x 17 sized paper.

[slowoldguy]

We will be trailering down early enough Wednesday to be able to handle any remaining border issues. It is my intention to have everything possible done before we get there through the consulate in Austin and online. I want Thursday to be a full-day of (street) riding if possible. ;)

[Trail Boss]

slowoldguy,

The Mexican consulate in Austin is open M-F, 8 - Noon only. You can get your vehicle permit there, but not your tourist permit.

[Trail Boss]

If you guys do decide to go through McAllen I have a safe place for you to keep your trucks and trailers.

Arnie,

I'd like to take you up on your generous offer. There will 4 of us with 2 trucks/trailers. Is that okay?

[Trail Boss]

Here are some excellent pictures of the area taken by Milton Otto. Milton is a veteran rider of the area and told me this evening he will be joining us for this trip. Check out all his pics posted on his smugmug account here (http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/).

Between Los Lirios & Laguna de Sanchez
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/95618346-L.jpg

Between Casillas & Laguna de Sanchez
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/95617961-L.jpg

Between Laguna de Sanchez & Casillas
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/95618503-L.jpg

Cascada Chiptin, Potrero Redondo
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/95618061-L.jpg

The Road to Raices, between Trinidad & Raices
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/95618291-L.jpg

Fellas, this is gonna be a great ride.

[AusFletch]

slowoldguy,

The Mexican consulate in Austin is open M-F, 8 - Noon only. You can get your vehicle permit there, but not your tourist permit.

I think this has been mentioned here before but, just in case, you can also get your importadora (temporary vehicle import permit) on line here:

http://www.banjercito.com.mx/site/tramiteitv_ing.jsp

OTOH, the Banjercito folks at the Mexican Consulate are awesome...as are the Consulate staff.

You can actually get your FMT (forma migratoria turista or temporary tourist visa) at the Consulate so you can have it pre-filled out. You will still need to pay for it and get it approved and stamped (and stamped and stamped) at the border.

I work within walking distance of the Mexican Consulate in Austin and am pretty familiar with them so if anyone plans to come to Austin to take care of this just let me know and I'd be glad to lend a hand.

If I can't go on this trip at least I can contribute to the vicarious thrill. :rider: -Fletch

[MIGHTYMOUSE]

I live in Weslaco, couple miles down from McAllen and have plenty of fenced in area to keep everything safe. My work and house are 10 minutes from the bridge at Progresso, another crossing point. I'll help anyway I can and may even join you guys if work permits. Another friend down here forgot more about those areas then we'll ever know, maybe he'll chime in here, JIM?

[slowoldguy]

MIGHTYMOUSE, if you still have room we'll be needing space for two trucks and two trailers also. Tom

[hardybaker]

I just returned from a ten day trip in MX. I highly recommend crossing and getting all your paperwork done in Columbia, which is a bout fifteen miles upriver from Laredo. Total time to get the papers,,,, probablly eight or ten minutes. HB

[MIGHTYMOUSE]

MIGHTYMOUSE, if you still have room we'll be needing space for two trucks and two trailers also. Tom



Yes no problem

[gsxrmike]

Hey, Anyone going to be crossing at Del Rio??? Anybody comming out of or going through the Odessa, Midland area,,, I may be just riding down there, If I cant hitch a ride on a trailer,
Mike

[busted knuckle]

Count me in! Great timing to coincide w/the Creel ride - thank you. Should we wear our "I'm not lost" T-shirts? (Just in case)

[MIGHTYMOUSE]

Here are just a couple of pics from our trips in the Monterrey area from the last couple of yrs. I'll try to add a few more as time permits. The whole area is really really awesome and there is lots and lots of exploring yet to do.

If you take the road up past Cola De Caballo you'll come to this little waterfall which is the water that drops down to CDC. These are some good friends from Oklahoma that came with us last year. The water is usually coming over the road here but not this day.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Monterrey039.jpg

Just past this waterfall is Betos bar and grill, I highly recommend it. It has been remodeled since these pictures and is the happening place on the mountain on weekends. From there you can look down at the CDC

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Monterrey044.jpg

from the second floor there is a gorgeous view to a lake where CDC emptys to and a town below, the pics dont do justice.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Monterrey049.jpg

Beto himself usually does the cooking over a real wood fire, the arracheras and chile are to die for and if you dont eat hot chile you will die he he.
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Myosins,MonterreyandColoradopics664.jpg

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Myosins,MonterreyandColoradopics665.jpg

We were admiring the mountains and the clouds from here, it was breath taking.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Myosins,MonterreyandColoradopics580.jpg

This waterfall happened a couple of years ago after the hurricane hit down there, there used to be a road where that pool water is. This was truly a sight to see and we were not able to get past there this time.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Myosins,MonterreyandColoradopics709.jpg

The destructive power of water is mind boggling, I'll post some more pics of that later, mind blowing imo. This also was the road, when we went back the next year (this past october) which at this time was impassable except maybe with a trials bike.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Monterrey071.jpg

There is a huge bat cave on the way up there but its on a side road I dont remember as I was not driving. It is immense and again the pic doesnt do justice. The bats come out every night as they do in Austin.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2007-6/1265636/Monterrey031.jpg

[thumper]

Great Pics! Got room for one more?:trust:

[Trail Boss]

Great Pics! Got room for one more?:trust:

Tim,

There is always room for one more. Should I officially add you to the list of attendees?

[Trail Boss]

Mightymouse,

Great pics. Thanks for posting them.

[Tourmeister]

Richard,

:tab Do you have a running list of attendees somewhere? Perhaps could edit the original post in this thread to add one if not? It might help with other folks hooking up for getting there and or rooming.

[Trail Boss]

Richard,

:tab Do you have a running list of attendees somewhere? Perhaps could edit the original post in this thread to add one if not? It might help with other folks hooking up for getting there and or rooming.

Scott,

The running list of attendees is on the original post. It's been up there for a week now. Guess I should have done a better job of letting everyone know it was there. My bad.

[Tourmeister]

:oops: :mrgreen:

[thumper]

Tim,

There is always room for one more. Should I officially add you to the list of attendees?

Yes, I've been to Mx. many times, but not on my bike and never to Monterrey. I'll make my reservations tomorrow.

Btw, I have a 3 bike trailer, but only a regular cab truck.I'll probably take 59 down there if anyone wants to split the ride.

[Trail Boss]

Welcome, thumper. You are now officially on the list.

[thumper]

I can haul up to five bikes and four other people besides myself with all their luggage. I'd want to leave Wednesday to get there in the evening.

Hey Scott, Got room? I'd like to get there Wedensday evening too.

[Cagiva 549]

Add me to the official list . SEYA

[Trail Boss]

Add me to the official list .

Done.

Welcome!

[Trail Boss]

The Hotel Jardin, Galeana. Taken by Milton Otto this past weekend.

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/167661896-M.jpg

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/167661013-M.jpg

[thumper]

Welcome, thumper. You are now officially on the list.

Could you add one more? His name is Brian.

[Trail Boss]

Could you add one more? His name is Brian.

Done. He is the 21st rider.

[thumper]

Done. He is the 21st rider.

Thankyou Sir;-)

[Tourmeister]

I wonder what the parking situation will be at the hotel?

[Trail Boss]

I wonder what the parking situation will be at the hotel?

Scott,

I will discuss the parking situation with the hotel owner and see if there is a place to secure the bikes overnight.

[thumper]

Scott,

I will discuss the parking situation with the hotel owner and see if there is a place to secure the bikes overnight.

Hey Richard, Looks like I'll be driving my pickup to the hotel late Wednesday nite. I had an interpreter call and the hotel said no problem with security.:eek:
He could only take tenative reservations this far out [no deposit accepted till 15 days prior]. We'll actually arrive early and putz around til' the dinner Thursday nite.:rider:

[Trail Boss]

Tim,

Thanks for the info.

If you want to, on Thursday you can run one of the recon routes I've got planned. Let me know and I'll send it to you.

[thumper]

Tim,

Thanks for the info.

If you want to, on Thursday you can run one of the recon routes I've got planned. Let me know and I'll send it to you.

Most definetly!! The dirtier, the better.:trust:

[Trail Boss]

Most definetly!! The dirtier, the better.:trust:

Okay, will do.

[Trail Boss]

Hotel Update: I spoke, through an interpreter, with Felipe at Hotel Jardin today and brought him up to date on our ride.

He told me all his rooms sleep 2 people - they either have 2 regular beds or one large bed with a pull out bed.

He doesn't have enough space to secure 21 bikes and 3 trucks/trailers so he is going to try and locate some secure parking (warehouse or something suitable) for our vehicles. I did let him know that our group may continue to grow.

At some point I will need to put a deposit down to reserve the rooms. I will discuss it with him when I update him early Aug and we will work something out.

[Trail Boss]

Most definetly!! The dirtier, the better.:trust:


I've got 2 routes for you to choose from:

Route 1: This route is not particularly long but it does have about 20 river crossings. I suspect it may be a class 2 route (Motorcycle Off-Highway Road Rating System (http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19079)), but it could be a class 3. Your recon of this route will determine its correct class rating and whether this route is suitable for medium sized dual sport bikes (650cc thumpers) or large adventure bikes, its scenic rating, and amount of time required to complete.

Route 2: This is a longer route that includes a road not found on any map. I have been 100% assured that the road is definitely there. Again, I suspect this is a class 2 road, but it may be class 3. Your recon will provide in-depth navigational information, difficulty rating, scenic rating, and travel time.

If you are feeling really vigorous and rarin' to go you can combine route both routes into 1 big route. I have no clue if the big route can be completed during the number of daylight hours available. If not, then you will end up either crossing rivers or hugging steep mountain passes in the dark on your bike.

[thumper]

Yup, it's stacking up pretty good here!:rider: We'll definetly take the twenty crossings and if we can't squeeze in Rt.2, we'll volunteer for the next day!

So far we're debating whether to cross the border in the middle of the nite or an hour before dawn. My Intel[guys that work for me] say either will be fine so long as we stick to the freeway. The deciding factor will be the late nite cooperation of the hotel people! Whichever, we should be prime for a long Thursday ride. I would imagine that the weather will be a determining factor of Rt.1.:eek2: I'll have my tracks for download each night and a backup camera as well. Another easy decision...we'll carry our minimal camp gear each day. You never know!!:zen:

[mcrider]

So far we're debating whether to cross the border in the middle of the nite or an hour before dawn. My Intel[guys that work for me] say either will be fine so long as we stick to the freeway.

Rule One: "NEVER drive in Mexico in the dark."
Why?
Open range. A black bull standing in the road.
Some older vehicles. A broken down truck sitting in the road.

etc., etc.

[thumper]

Point well taken Chris. I agree it's not a great idea...even in a pickup on their Interstate. I asked around and the guys who work for me said it's a fairly well travelled road even at nite. Some of them have families south of Monterrey and drive straight thru on Friday.

[miltonotto]

I trailered my KLX to Aramberi today, to the south of Galeana. Mucho rain and flooding here folks so don´t be gettin in a wad..., yet.
One note, I came thru McAllen this morning and took the G.Bravo, China, Gen Teran, Montemorelos route to the sierras, a route I would not recommend. There is one nasty 30 mile strech there between China and Teran that took an exasperating 1 hour. Pouring rain didn´t help but the potholes, you had to stop an automobile for. They are redoing the road, (so throw in a little road construction with the pot holes) but didn´t look like it would be ready before a year or two.

[Tourmeister]

Welcome to the site! :wave:

Thanks for the info.

[slowoldguy]

milton, thanks for joining in. I've seen your photos. Incredible. I plan on being the slower end of our trip down south and was planning on limiting myself to what we are calling class one dirt roads, and hoping for lots and lots of twisty pavement in the "reachable" general area. Any specific twisty road suggestions for me?

Thanks for the heads-up on route planning. The route that sucked? That WAS my route. LOL. Not anymore.

[thumper]

Great photos Milton.:clap: That are very inspiring.:trust: Thanks for the traffic report. That's the route I was gonna take.:headbang:

[Trail Boss]

Milton,

Welcome. I'm glad you joined this forum.

Thanks for the heads up on the route. I, too, was planning on taking that route in Oct, but will now be selecting an alternate.

[miltonotto]

I plan on being the slower end of our trip down south and was planning on limiting myself to what we are calling class one dirt roads, and hoping for lots and lots of twisty pavement in the "reachable" general area. Any specific twisty road suggestions for me?


There are a kazillion miles of roads of all classes in that area. You'll have a great time.

PS I'm back, safe & sound (?) and I didn't fall! :rider:
mo stories later.

[Trail Boss]

PS I'm back, safe & sound (?) and I didn't fall! :rider:
mo stories later.

:popcorn:

[dennisd9]

I've been watching this thread hoping my work schedule would allow me to join the ride, but I can't arrange it. Just a word of caution-- one of my associates has family near that area, and indicates that there has been increasing crime in the mountains related to drug dealers who hide out there. He also expresses some concern about the risk of some of the mountain roads with steep, unprotected drop-offs, but I think everyone here is aware of that risk.;-):eek2:

[miltonotto]

Well in the 10 years since I first visited the area I've never seen any hint of drug dealers hiding in the mountains. In 2003 on paved roads I was stopped twice by police in patrol cars who just wanted to check me out (or shake me down and decided against it?). Once up in the mountain boonies I came across a contingent of the military camped out. I was received by Commanding Officer with apples & codiality. He claimed they were planting pine trees, and indeed later I saw soldiers in the woods planting pine trees. As far south as Rayones you get alot of weekenders from Monterrey, many have second homes (cabanas) in the area.
Steep roads with unprotected drop-offs? Absolutely.
Rule of thumb: This is Mexico, the land of personal responsibility. Leave all preconceptions at the border, pay attention to your surroundings. Anything can happen. Watch for open man holes, they probably won't be marked.
Mostly I've found people friendly and codial, the more so the further into the boonies you get. Just keep smiling, and above all, respect.

[dennisd9]

Leave all preconceptions at the border, pay attention to your surroundings.
Mostly I've found people friendly and codial, the more so the further into the boonies you get. Just keep smiling, and above all, respect.[/QUOTE]

Couldn't agree more-- as I said, just a precautionary note from a semi-local. Didn't mean to put a damper on things-- I'd go if I could.

[WoodButcher]

So how many people will be on small bikes...like a DRZ400? Not saying I'm in, but I'm starting to really like the idea. I'm not sure about riding all the way from the border to Galeana though. Also, I'd hate to be only one on a small bike and get left behind by all the big boys.

[busted knuckle]

So how many people will be on small bikes...like a DRZ400? Not saying I'm in, but I'm starting to really like the idea. I'm not sure about riding all the way from the border to Galeana though. Also, I'd hate to be only one on a small bike and get left behind by all the big boys.

I can't speak for everyone, however, as your bike probably wouldn't keep up with the "big guys" it might be prudent to find other bikes your cc's to travel with. Or, truck your bike down there, ride all you want, and truck it back. Doesn't really matter HOW you get there, once there you'll be glad you went!

[slowoldguy]

WoodButcher. Trust me . Those of us on GS's and Vstrom's are thinking "are we going to be the only folks on street pigs?" LOL. I think you'll be fine. Richard wants all kinds of bikes so that we can explore all kinds of dirt roads . We'll leave you all the single track.

[Trail Boss]

Rusty,

Yes, there will some on the smaller DS bikes there. Thumper & his crew will be on DR350s, etc and are looking for some serious dirt riding (class 3 stuff). I believe they are trailering the entire way. Milton Otto is planning on attending, trailering his KLX650 the entire way and, based on his ride reports, is not too shy about tackling the class 3 stuff. And 2 other fellows I've spoken with this past week have each expressed interest in riding their street legal dirt bikes on this ride. So, I think there will be some enough riders on smaller bikes that you guys can put together one or more recon teams and tackle some serious class 3/4 and/or trails.

If any of you riders that will be on the smaller DS bikes want to ride some single track, please sound off here and I'll see if I can get MightyMouse to map out a couple of routes. He's ridden the trails in area on his dirt bike and should be able to come up with some fun routes for you.

[thumper]

If any of you riders that will be on the smaller DS bikes want to ride some single track, please sound off here and I'll see if I can get MightyMouse to map out a couple of routes. He's ridden the trails in area on his dirt bike and should be able to come up with some fun routes for you.

And it just keeps getting better and better. I'd be real interested in those trail routes.:trust:

Hey Rusty, I have no interest in zinging my DRZ on a Mexican Interstate ethier!:eek2: So far I've only got one other rider and he'll be on an XT350. There's bound to be others that wanna do as much offroad as possible.:rider:

[WoodButcher]

And it just keeps getting better and better. I'd be real interested in those trail routes.:trust:

Hey Rusty, I have no interest in zinging my DRZ on a Mexican Interstate ethier!:eek2: So far I've only got one other rider and he'll be on an XT350. There's bound to be others that wanna do as much offroad as possible.:rider:

Are you trucking/trailering all the way to the hotel? Or riding down from the border?

I'm still kicking this around before I run it by the CFO, but if I could hook up with somebody to trailer my bike all the way down, or meet along the way to trailer it the rest of the way, that would ease my mind (and rear). Of course my wife might tell me those parts of my anatomy are too close together and there's no way I'm going, but I've got to at least try.

[thumper]

Are you trucking/trailering all the way to the hotel? Or riding down from the border?

I'm still kicking this around before I run it by the CFO, but if I could hook up with somebody to trailer my bike all the way down, or meet along the way to trailer it the rest of the way, that would ease my mind (and rear). Of course my wife might tell me those parts of my anatomy are too close together and there's no way I'm going, but I've got to at least try.

We'll be trucking all the way to the hotel. Our plans are to leave Houston Wednesday at 3:00pm, drive to the border, cross at daybreak Thursday and be unloaded at the hotel around 10:00am, then we'll ride till the 1st meeting at 6:00pm.:rider:

[Trail Boss]

Rusty,

Milton Otto is trailering all the way from Austin and I believe his trailer is big enough for 2 bikes. You might send him a PM.



Rusty & Thumper

I'll give Mightymouse a shout and see what info he can give us for the trails.

[slowoldguy]

We plan on getting down midday Wednesday and taking care of any last minute things, but we plan to be on the road at first light Thursday also. I guess we will just be taking the direct route down but I sure would like to avoid Monterrey. Anybody come up with a good route to ride down?

[thumper]

mo stories later.:popcorn:

[miltonotto]

Hey guys, See some of my lastest photos and teaser stories at http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/gallery/3141740#172370793

[miltonotto]

I sure would like to avoid Monterrey. Anybody come up with a good route to ride down?

The fastest, quickest way down is to cross at Laredo, take cuota toll roads that route you towards Saltillo completely bypassing Monterrey to the north, and then Saltillo to the East, down 4-lane divided Hwy 57(?) to San Roberto and then east to Galeana.

If you want to cross at McAllen, take the cuota (toll) road towards Monterrey but exit at Cadereyta, south to Allende, then south on Hwy 85 to Linares where you turn towards Galeana. This route takes you thru the twisty Santa Rosa canyon between Linares and Inturbide, which is a pretty neat road in its own right.

[Bucky1845]

Wish I could go on this trip but my cruiser wouldn't make the dirt. Anyway, for your consideration, if you get as far south of Monterrey as Matahuala, check out Real de Catorce. It's an abandoned silver town that can only be reached by riding through one of the mines. It was, during it's heyday during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, a town approaching 75,000 people. Today it's a city of a about 2,500 people, artists mostly, a couple hotels, and a few vacation homes, and lots and lots of abandoned homes and mines. Facinating.

[slowoldguy]

If you want to cross at McAllen, take the cuota (toll) road towards Monterrey but exit at Cadereyta, south to Allende, then south on Hwy 85 to Linares where you turn towards Galeana. This route takes you thru the twisty Santa Rosa canyon between Linares and Inturbide, which is a pretty neat road in its own right. This sounds good. (Races off to Mexican Road Atlas.)

[thumper]

Hey guys, See some of my lastest photos and teaser stories at http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/gallery/3141740#172370793

Amazing, great pics,....is it October yet?:drool:

[Trail Boss]

Hey guys, See some of my lastest photos and teaser stories at http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/gallery/3141740#172370793

Milton,

I really like the photos. You sure have a talent for taking excellent pics.

[gsxrmike]

I will be coming out of Odessa, Texas, I plan to cross at Del Rio, Anyone else crossing here, I also plan to be a week early.... I will be riding a KLR 650
Anyone got a good route for me to take, I like to stay away from the toll roads unlessI am hauling ***,
Mike

[CeeBee]

All Right, All Right !!!! :giveup: I can't stand it any longer! Sign me up, I should be there Wens. night.
There's alot going on in Oct. - 16th - 18th in Creel, 20th - 22nd in Terlingua and now 11th - 14th on this ride. Thats 13 days on a WR450, Hope my body and the bike hold up! Guess I can't put off buying an old pickup any longer - any deals out there. Any suggestions on soft saddle bags and a tank bag for a dirt bike?
Chuck

PS - I'm picturing Mike Green stepping back and looking at the WR :eek2: with a tanker gas tank, moose rack installed with bags hanging on each side, tank bag and piled high with suff, smiling, shaking his head , saying nice bike

[thumper]

All Right, All Right !!!! :giveup: I can't stand it any longer!

Guess that trail pic finally did you in! Or was it Milton's road less traveled?:lol2: It's gonna be a blast!:trust:

[Trail Boss]

All Right, All Right !!!! :giveup: I can't stand it any longer! Sign me up, I should be there Wens. night.

Chuck



Welcome, Chuck. In the famous words of the indigenous female guerrilla soldier in Rambo 2, "You make wise choice".

[Hood Ornament]

Any suggestions on soft saddle bags and a tank bag for a dirt bike?
Chuck




Dirt Bagz (http://www.moto-sportpanniers.com/dirtbagz/index.html) has some real good saddle bags and Wolfman (http://www.wolfmanluggage.com/Tank/EnduroTank.html) makes a good tank bag.

[Goat Trail Green]

All Right, All Right !!!! :giveup: I can't stand it any longer! Sign me up, I should be there Wens. night.
There's alot going on in Oct. - 16th - 18th in Creel, 20th - 22nd in Terlingua and now 11th - 14th on this ride. Thats 13 days on a WR450, Hope my body and the bike hold up! Guess I can't put off buying an old pickup any longer - any deals out there. Any suggestions on soft saddle bags and a tank bag for a dirt bike?
Chuck

PS - I'm picturing Mike Green stepping back and looking at the WR :eek2: with a tanker gas tank, moose rack installed with bags hanging on each side, tank bag and piled high with suff, smiling, shaking his head , saying nice bike

I want Pictures of that BEAST !!!!!!! :clap:

Hey thats is some seat time now. I am jealous but in a very good way :clap:


Mike Green

[CeeBee]

Dirt Bagz (http://www.moto-sportpanniers.com/dirtbagz/index.html) has some real good saddle bags and Wolfman (http://www.wolfmanluggage.com/Tank/EnduroTank.html) makes a good tank bag.

Thanks Albie, I just ordered the bags - they look like the ones I was searching for. :clap:
Chuck

[CeeBee]

Guess that trail pic finally did you in! Or was it Milton's road less traveled?:lol2: It's gonna be a blast!:trust:

It was both and more! I stayed up till almost 2am reading about the rides and the area - trying to ignore the desire burning a hole in the core of my sole yearning to be released on dirt in Mexico. :doh: I hope you know Spanish!
Other wise we'll be eating road kill and cactus :eat:
Hasta la vista compadre
Carlos

[CeeBee]

Welcome, Chuck. In the famous words of the indigenous female guerrilla soldier in Rambo 2, "You make wise choice".

Thanks Richard,
My wife thinks it Rambo without a brain! I just said you should hear Richard, he's riding a 600 lb. bike on single track mountain hill climbs! And he's our leader!!! :eek2: She rolled her eyes and asked about medical evacuation insurance - I just smiled as i checked out my new carburator.
Chuck

[thumper]

I hope you know Spanish!
Hasta la vista compadre
Carlos

Just enough to get us in some real trouble.:duck:

[onian]

Im very interested in going on this run. Cant say 100% yes just yet, but it should be no problem at all to go. I could ride all the way from Killeen, but if some one was trailering around me would appreciate the ride as well. Would be on a KLR650 btw.

[Trail Boss]

onian,

I hope you can make it. If you will let me know when you are confirmed, I will add you to the roster.

[ramblinrog (aka) Uncle]

Not to change the subject Rich, but I've got to get you to Colorado with me sometime.

[Trail Boss]

Not to change the subject Rich, but I've got to get you to Colorado with me sometime.

Uncle,

I'd love to go riding in Colorado with you. Getting a week or so off next July is definitely do-able, but I just know the kitchen pass is gonna cost me dearly...

[CeeBee]

I"M IN !!! Have finally worked it out.
The plan is to pack the pickup in Houston with the WR 450 and head to the border and spend the night Wednesday the 10th. Will cross the border at Mc Allen TX. Thurs. morn., do the necessary paper work on the 11th, and head to the Mountain Recon ride out of Galeana Mx. :deal: http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17927 Leave Sun. morning the 14th and drive to Creel for the Chabochis ride, :flip: http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=216771 stopping for the night and arriving on Monday the 15th around noon. Get up Friday the 19th an drive to Terlingua Tx. by way of the border crossing at Presidio for a fun type dual sport enduro. http://trh-cycle.org/flyers/ds2007.pdf Drive back to the Houston area on Monday the 22nd. I have room for one bike and rider in the truck if you have the need for a Mexico experience! The rides in all three places are what you want them to be. There will be single track people, dual sport people and road bike people and variations in between at each location. Will be a lot of fun!!! :party:
Chuck

[Tx Rider]

Man that's a lot of riders... Too bad I spent all the time off I can afford this year already, I love recon duty. :dude:

[thumper]

I"M IN !!! Have finally worked it out. Will be a lot of fun!!! :party: Chuck
Wish I had that many days left [I'd be in for sure], but Galeana taps me out til' next spring.:argh:

[Trail Boss]

Man that's a lot of riders... Too bad I spent all the time off I can afford this year already, I love recon duty. :dude:

Tx Dude,

The plan right now is to do it again in 2008. Maybe you will have leave accrued for these rides:

Coahuila 300: mid-March, 2008
2008 T.A.R. (Texas Adventure Ride) - last weekend in April
MexTrek 2008: mid-Oct

[Trail Boss]

Hey Recon Riders,

I called the hotel manager, Felipe, today to give him the updated attendance figures. During our conversation he told me that he believes he has located a place where we can lock up all the bikes each night, which is good news. It's probably still a good idea to bring a disk lock and chain, but it is encouraging that he has found a place to secure our bikes each evening.

[Tx Rider]

I don't go nowhere without a good 6' cable lock. :0

Next year is wide open, and I have never ridden anywhere south of the border. :)

[Trail Boss]

...I have never ridden anywhere south of the border. :)

We can get that fixed next March at the Coahuila 300.

[slowoldguy]

richard, we are still moving right along. Texas Oilman is getting his vstrom kitted out quite sprightly. I ordered my bags last Friday from Happy Trail. Sent my seat off today to spencer's in Florida. I have one more fellow that needs M.D. Anderson to give him another green light 9/16 and he'll be joining us. I have a good feeling about it. He'll be there. ;)

Keep us posted on anything you need from us and we'll keep plugging along.

[thumper]

Hey Recon Riders, it is encouraging that he has found a place to secure our bikes each evening.

Hmmm....I wonder about those of us who are also bringing their trucks? I would even go so far as to pay a small fee to guarantee I still had it on Sunday morning.:wary:

[miltonotto]

Hmmm....I wonder about those of us who are also bringing their trucks? I would even go so far as to pay a small fee to guarantee I still had it on Sunday morning.:wary:
I can't recall exactly, but I'm thinking there is at least one secured, pay parking lot in Galeana, maybe one-two blocks away from the hotel. Plus, there is a second hotel on the square some 25 yards from the Jardin, and they have a secure lot behind their hotel (the Jardin doesn't.) Also, the cop shop is on the square too and there is a significant, benign presence of police guys in the park/square at night, strolling around in groups of 3-4. I've always just parked in front of the hotel, bike and/or car, with no problems but we are gonna come near to taking over this corner of the town, so seems prudent to get the multiple vehicles off the street. There's usually a shortage of parking spots in front of the hotel anyway.

[DrBlackbird]

Would like to add another dirt rider to this party......New to Dual Sporting, but not by any means new to "Dirt"......Will be riding a KLR650.
.
Passport and Pesos ready n willing
.
........Doc

[Trail Boss]

Would like to add another dirt rider to this party......New to Dual Sporting, but not by any means new to "Dirt"......Will be riding a KLR650.
.
Passport and Pesos ready n willing
.
........Doc

Welcome, Doc!

[Trail Boss]

A friend of mine designed a logo for our Mexico trip. If you would like a t-shirt or sticker you can order one from cafepress. Here's the link to cafepress (http://www.cafepress.com/texasadventure)

Here's the logo:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/RECON.jpg

A modified Texas Adventure logo for this trip:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/reconback.jpg

[Wattner]

I would love to join in if there is still space available...It has been years since I rode this area. Would be a fun time. Maybe stay a day or two and head to Real de Catorce, if there are any takers, I would enjoy the company.

[Wattner]

Wow...after searching upcoming rides on this and ADVrider...I posted the following:I just came across this thread as well as the Mountain Recon DS ride around Monterrey. That ride ends on the 14th,,,,precisely enough time to make it (On time, late, early...ya know Mexico kinda makin' it)...So, I am shooting for the Monterrey ride, then Jet over the afternoon of the 14th and arrive the eve of the 15th in Creel. This sounds like a good fill of the best that Northern Mexico has to offer....I have ridden both areas several times, however my last few Mex adventures have taken me way South. I was going to take the Honda 650, but with the road travel, I will opt for the BMW adventure. Anyone else that would like to get together, I will be trailering from South Florida to Central Texas (Austin, San Antonio area) and would enjoy the company....PM for a plan, or post here....

[Trail Boss]

I would love to join in if there is still space available.

Wattner,

Welcome! I've added you to the list of riders attending.

[Wattner]

Thank you so much...Is there a limit to the number of riders? I have 3-6 more that are interested....

[Trail Boss]

Thank you so much...Is there a limit to the number of riders? I have 3-6 more that are interested....

No limit to # of riders. Galeana has 3 hotels which should accomodate as many riders as realistically will attend.

[Trail Boss]

Austin & Central Texas Riders,

My buddy Dave needs to check the valves on his KLR before the Mountain Recon trip, so we've planned a tech day on Saturday morning, Sept 8th at my place to get this done. If anyone else would like to attend to do a little work on your bike, please feel free to do so. I've got a long, paved driveway that has lots of work space (as long as the weather cooperates). Let me know if you want to attend and I'll PM you my address.

[RockmanTex]

I wonder what effect hurricane Dean would have on the Galeana area if it makes landfall in that area? Is Creel the backup plan?

Steve

[miltonotto]

I'm wondering the same thing. Heavy rains can really screw things up down there, with wash outs, landslides, etc. Keep an eye on it at Mexico weather (http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/map/MXQA0072?name=index_large_animated&day=1). On that weather map, we'll be going to that little narrow "waist line" part of the state of Nuevo Leon about halfway between the "c" in the label "Mexico" and Laredo on the border.

Another weather map (http://www.weather.com/maps/news/junenonactive/tropicalatlanticsatellite_large_animated.html)

Typically it rains alot in September anyway, and it can mess with the roads. Just one of the realities of traveling in October. I'll keep in touch with my contacts down there.

Which brings me to another point. One of my contacts was wantin' photos and prices for cheap used pickup trucks. I told him they were plentiful and cheap in Texas, but haven't done the leg work yet to come up with examples. Anyone wanna help?

[miltonotto]

Track Dean (http://www.weather.com/maps/news/atlstorm4/atl4projectedpath_large.html?from=secondarynav_sea son)

[Trail Boss]

An updated version of BiciMaps Mexico Atlas GPS just came out that auto routes!

I purchased Bici Maps Mexico Atlas for my Garmin GPS earlier this year so I could use it during a recent Mexico ride. It was a decent mapset and certainly helped me navigate during my ride, but one thing it was noticeably lacking was the ability to autoroute.

An updated version was recently released that now autoroutes. Here are the other features that have been added:

Highways updated to 2007

Street detail for 44 cities in the country including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Cuernavaca, Puebla, Queretaro, Pacuca, Acapulco, Leon, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Villahermosa, San Luis Potosí, Hermosillo, Chihuahua, among others.

Auto routing and automatic navigation in highways, city streets, unpaved roads and trails throughout the country

More than 280,000 rural locations and towns

Extensive POI data base with over 45,000 geographic reference locations such as beaches, mountains and hills, lakes, rivers, dams and so forth. Also urban points of interest such as hospitals, government buildings, shopping centers and more.

Over 1500 gasoline stations along the highways network

International and state boundaries

Lakes, rivers, dams, national parks, biosphere reserves

Contour lines at 50 meter interval in Baja and 100 interval for the remainder of the country

In short, if you are looking for a Mexico map for your GPS for the upcoming Mountain Recon, the updated Bicimaps seems like it could be the best choice.

Here's the link to the web site: Bici Maps (http://www.bicimapas.com.mx/English.htm)

[slowoldguy]

Richard, much to my dissapointment my crew is out this time. That would be me the two nephews and Texas Oilman. A member of the group has developed an unavoidable family related scheduling conflict on the 12th. Bad timing but like I said, unavoidable.

The ride planning you have done is excellent and my hat is off to you. I expect I will try and do the repeat ride should one take place. (My Happy Trail cases came in yesterday.:( ) I have really been looking forward to the ride and will miss the opportunity to be with y'all. I apologize. Thanks again for all your efforts.

p.s. We'd really like to give it try in January, February if anybody experienced with Mexico is game to be the guide. P.M.'s only , I will not respond on this thread, so we keep Richard's thread clean.

[Trail Boss]

slowoldguy,

Sorry to hear you & crew won't be able to attend. I hope to repeat this event yearly, so maybe you will be able to catch the next one.

The next Mexico event after this that I'm planning is the Coahuila 300 in mid-March 2008. I'll be posting info on it after the Mountain Recon is in the history books.

[titan305]

Hey Richard,

Thinking of adding my name to the list.
Not quite sure how I would get down there, possibly haul the bike to S. Texas and leave the truck, then ride across. I am curious if you have a route already mapped out (no GPS) to get to Galeana from any S. Texas crossing.

If anybody has any room let me know. Or wants to ride with me let me know. I'm up for any suggestion. I am in Montgomery, Tx.

I'll be on a 650L FWIW.

Thanks, Les

[thumper]

Richard,

Looks like Brian is gonna back out, but I'll still be there Thursday early a.m.

[ChuckTaylor]

2nd Titans request for a crossing recommendation and map scenario. Recon/dirt track mission no problem. Border crossing, bureaucrats and associated chaos... not so good.
We'll be riding down from S.A. on GSs Thurs. so I'd like to minimize the trauma and focus on the good stuff Fri. Sat. Mainly interested in avoiding extended 4 lane slab/toll rds., Laredo hassles and bypassing Monterrey if possible.
Any vets on a similar schedule? Also looking for those going from this to the Creel event the following week.
:rider:

[Trail Boss]

Hey Richard,

Thinking of adding my name to the list.
Not quite sure how I would get down there, possibly haul the bike to S. Texas and leave the truck, then ride across. I am curious if you have a route already mapped out (no GPS) to get to Galeana from any S. Texas crossing.

titan305,

I believe the quickest way to get to Galeana from Montgomery is to go through San Antonio and take I-35 to Laredo. Cross the border into Nuevo Laredo and run the toll road 85D to Monterry. Go around the east side of Monterrey and south to Montemorelos. From Montemorelos ride west and south to Galeana. It's probably the fastest route but the downside is a significant amount of freeway/toll roads. approx. 621 miles from Montgomery to Galeana.

You can map out the route in live search (http://maps.live.com/?vendor=google&pkw=live_search&s_kwcid=live%20search|771011731). I like Live Search as a mapping source and it seems to show most of the roads we will be reconing.

If you are open to taking 2 days to get to Galeana (leave Montgomery Wednesday morning, arrive in Galean on Thursday afternoon) with some fun dual sport riding on Thursday, then here is an alternate route. Follow the same route from Montgomery over to near Laredo. Before you reach Laredo, take the cutoff to Columbia, Tx and cross the border there (smaller crossing, probably faster and easier). Take NL1 to the north side of Monterrey and overnight.

On Thursday morning, enter the mountains south of Santa Catarina (Santa Catarina is a suburb of Monterrey, on the west side of Monterrey between Monterrey and Saltillo) and run the mountain roads south all the way to Galeana.

[Trail Boss]

Border crossing, bureaucrats and associated chaos... not so good.


Chuck,

I cover all the border crossing stuff (to the best of my ability) in the ride guide I wrote for this event. You can download the ride guide from this page (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm). Right click on the link to the ride guide and select "save target as" to save it to your hard drive.

[Trail Boss]

Richard,

Looks like Brian is gonna back out, but I'll still be there Thursday early a.m.

Thanks for the update. I'll take Brian off the list. See you in Galeana.

[ChuckTaylor]

Thanks Richard, I appreciate all the how to's in the ride guide and all the work you're putting into this. I was looking for a little veteran advice like you just posted for Titan.
Stuff like "Before you reach Laredo, take the cutoff to Columbia, Tx and cross the border there (smaller crossing, probably faster and easier). Take NL1 to the north side of Monterrey and overnight" and "On Thursday morning, enter the mountains south of Santa Catarina (Santa Catarina is a suburb of Monterrey, on the west side of Monterrey between Monterrey and Saltillo) and run the mountain roads south all the way to Galeana.
Just some sage advice from folks that have been there. Can't wait to get on the road. Thanks again.

[titan305]

Richard, thanks for the link that is what I was looking for. Still considering different routes as I do want to avoid fwy's but dont want to get too far out while riding alone.
Crossing at Colombia I'm sure is safer and quicker than Laredo.

Still researching a few things. Appreciate all the work you have been doing and advice!
Les

[Trail Boss]

Hey Gang,

Based on intel from Milton Otto and the ride reports on the area, I've come up with 10 proposed recon routes for our group. For those of you with GPS I've posted the routes up on the web site in .gpx format. Here's the link: GPS Routes (http://www.texasadventure.net/The%20Mountain%20Recon/Mountain%20Recon%20Home.htm)

[onian]

Well looks like I was able to work out my passport issues in time and it will be here on saturday. So can go ahead and lock me in for this. I am stoked to go cant wait.

[Trail Boss]

Well looks like I was able to work out my passport issues in time and it will be here on saturday. So can go ahead and lock me in for this. I am stoked to go cant wait.

Sweet! You are now officially on the list for the trip. See you at the tech day.

[miltonotto]

I'd like to minimize the trauma and focus on the good stuff Fri. Sat. Mainly interested in avoiding extended 4 lane slab/toll rds., Laredo hassles and bypassing Monterrey if possible.
:rider:Hey Guys, for what it's worth: The best way to bypass Monterrey (Mty) is South on 85 from Laredo (or Columbia) then just shy of Mty take Saltillo Cuota (toll rd) West. Toll roads (Cuotas) are essentially Mexican versions on US Interstates. Now I know this sounds boring to you guys but its the best way to bypass Mty and get on down to Galeana. Don't you want to get as far away from the border in the least amount of time? Get to the real Mexico, south of Monterrey. Besides, toll roads are safe, in addition to fast. Consider this: Its 283 miles between Nuevo Laredo and Galeana via 85/57 Cuotas all the way, took me 5 hrs June 2007 highballing it single-mindedly in my Chevy Blazer, stopping only for gas and tolls. And that's from the Mexican side of Laredo. This, simply, is the quickest way to Galeana.

You can count on 1 hour at the border even if you already have your papers from the Mexican consulate in Austin!

The Columbia Border. Interesting to say the least, but remember they close (yes close the border) at midnight. Don't know when they open in the am, maybe 8? Also, the Texas toll road that connects Columbia to I-35 closes at 10pm. So Columbia, although there is usually nobody there and is a dream to negociate, is say 40 + 40 = 80 miles out of your way.

I know if you've already made up your mind I ain't gonna convince you, but Laredo is not bad.

Going around the east side of Mty? I don't really know that way but I'm always looking for suggestions of how to get thru the big city of Monterrey. I kinda skirt the old centro of Mty to the west and then south which keeps me out of the warehouse districts. Follow signs to 85 (Victoria) Go past Montemorelos on 85, to Linares, then west at Linares towards San Roberto and Galeana. More interesting but longer and remember, this way you gotta go thru Mty, which hey, won't kill'ya.

Alternately you can cross at Reynosa, that way you get further south while still in the US. From Reynosa to Galeana is approx 213 miles, which sounds great but took me about 6 hrs, not including stops, but that was thru China.

leave .... Wednesday morning.... take the cutoff to Columbia, Tx and cross the border there (smaller crossing, probably faster and easier). Take NL1 to the north side of Monterrey and overnight.
On Thursday morning, enter the mountains south of Santa Catarina .... and run the mountain roads south all the way to Galeana.
:rider:2 days to Galeana, the back way. Hummmm, I'm interested. Never done NL1. The backroads from Mty thru Huasteca Canyon, Cienega and on to Rayones and Galeana could take 8 hrs but maybe..... I'll have to ck my notes on that one but I like it.

[titan305]

Great help Milton!

85 to 57 to 31 seems to be a fairly easy route. It checks out on livesearch at about 283 miles taking 4 hours and 36 mins. This route I believe would be reasonable being all toal/slab. If I end up riding down alone this route appeals to me.

The route from Santa Caterina looks fun. Not so confident on the back roads though, definately not alone. Slower speeds but more direct.

Thanks for your advice!
Les

[miltonotto]

Not so confident on the back roads though, definately not alone.Not yet, anyway. That's what this trip is all about, Les, an introduction to the possibilities of fun & adventure awaiting you in the often intimidating yet usually benign land of Mexico. I'm looking forward to it.checks out on livesearch at about 283 miles taking 4 hours and 36 mins.What? I checked air pressure in my trailer tires a couple of times, otherwise I was cookin'.

[Wattner]

Looks like the plan is firming up....2 for sure, 2 maybe. We will be riding from Austin on Tuesday Oct. 9th and heading into Mexico. Depending upon dparture time, we will stay in Laredo, Nuevo Laredo, or hopefully even as far as Monterrey or surrounding area. We will then wake early on the 10th and ride to Real de Catorce, spend the night and pull into Galeana before 6:00 pm on Thursday the 11th.

We will ride with this group on the 12th and 13th and on the 14th, we will head towards the Copper Canyon to ride the Chabochis Rally http://www.chabochismotorally.com/ from the ADVrider crowd, arriving in Creel on Tuesday October 16th. WQe will ride there until Friday the 19th and work our way back to Austin over the weekend.

We will be riding GS1200's, and if anyone would like to ride as a group for any part, or all we welcome the company.

We rode over 5600 miles through Mexico earlier this year and have many trips through the areas we will be going to and through, however I have never done this actual trip.

Sounds like it'll be a hoot!!!!

[gsxrmike]

Anybody know what the weather has been doing to the roads in the area
Looks like the hurricanes have been getting the place a little wet,,,,,
I have looked at the weather maps but does not show the roads.......
Mike

[miltonotto]

Go to Mexico weather (http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/map/MXQA0072?name=index_large_animated&day=1).
On that active weather map, we'll be going to that little narrow "waist line" part of the state of Nuevo Leon about halfway between the "c" in the label "Mexico" and Laredo on the border. No, it won't show the roads.

This is not exactly the same map as the active weather map (link), but another way of looking at our target area is this
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/191888393-L.jpg

Mauricio, a tour guide at www.Matacanes.net/ emailed me this today, regarding Mexico weather in the Cola de Caballo area:

“Can you resend me this mail late September, right now we have no problem
with any of this roads, but it could rain more… I will be doing Garganta del
Diablo next Saturday (near Mesa del Oso), and we went to Casillas last
Saturday to Alamar and Misterios… the roads were fine until then.

Let me know when you come, maybe I could join you… I have a Honda CRX230…”

[thumper]

Hey Richard, Getting close enough to think about hotel reservations. Where are we at on this? Should I mention "Recon Ride"?

Also, I'm pretty well bent on crossing Thursday early.."early" a.m. I know CeeBee will caravan with me and I think Cagiva might also. Any others wanting to cross on Thursday a.m.?

One last thing. Any luck with MightyMouse and the trail tracks?:trust:

[Trail Boss]

Thumper,

I've been talking with Felipe, the hotel manager, monthly so as to keep him up to date on our visit. As of last week he had rooms for us and didn't indicate there were any problems.

The challenge with making reservations with the hotel is that they don't take credit cards.

All that being said, if you or anyone else wants to call down there and talk to the hotel about a reservation, please feel free to do so. It won't hurt anything. FYI, I haven't found anyone there that speaks any English so if you do call you will need to speak Spanish.

Unfortunately, Mighty Mouse doesn't have his trail tracks in his GPS.

[Eulogite]

I'm going. Will anybody else be riding a "faux" DS bike ? Combinations of rutted, muddy, rocky, or steep will probably have me seeking pavement, but I intend to give the dirt a shot. I've procured extra levers just for the occasion.

Dick Jacobs, are you still riding down from Dallas?

[Trail Boss]

I don't know about "faux" but I'm riding my Wee-Strom.

[DrBlackbird]

Add two more to the mix.....Frank Colson from Katy, KLR650......and James McCanless from Sealy, BMW800
.
We're heading down mid afternoon Wed. Lay over in Laredo, full day of adventure riding Thur before we make it to Galeana

[Eulogite]

I don't know about "faux" but I'm riding my Wee-Strom.

That was the Cycle World description in a recent comparo.

I'll try to follow you.

[Chango]

Hey Gary , The ol' R80GS should be completed this weekend . I will
Run it thru multiple low water crossings like last weekend.
I figure any streams in Mexico over 3' - 4' + in depth.
4 of us could tote one bike across at a time by putting
a small tree timber thru our spokes or between a frame tube.

Everybody watch Treasure of Sierra Madre before the trip!!!!

James in Sealy Tx.

[Trail Boss]

That was the Cycle World description in a recent comparo.

I read that magazine comparison where they compared the new Tiger to the V-Strom, Multistrada, and Ulysses on paved roads only. I have to admit that the basic premise of the comparison seemed pretty lame to me. It told me which adventure bike of those 4 is the best road bike, but it didn't tell me which, of all the road bikes available, was the best road bike. How does the new Tiger compare to the FZ1, Bandit, etc? I mean if we are going to stick to pavement only, why not compare all the paved road only bikes in the comparison? What's next - a comparison of 4 motocross bikes to see which one is the best trail bike using the rational that most motocross bikes are not raced?

Okay, rant over. Despite that comparison, I routinely ride my Wee on class 1 & 2 unpaved roads and expect to do so in Mexico on this trip.

[Trail Boss]

Add two more to the mix.....Frank Colson from Katy, KLR650......and James McCanless from Sealy, BMW800
.


Done.

Welcome, Frank and James!

James, are you going to ride that BMW on the unpaved roads?

[DrBlackbird]

Apparently Richard,....You don't know James too well........
.
Last weekend had him doing full lock doughnuts in a 1ft deep Texas back roads river crossing. All the while with a silly grin on his face while perched on his "Ural". Yeah, the Boy can ride. He's stripped this old GS down to bare bones.......He's also packin real lite, he's only bringing one change of under wear, and one set of socks.....Hmmmmm...
.
So my figuring is that the last man to arrive to Galeana, has to "Bunk" with James............;-)
.
.
.
.Movie>> http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20031012/REVIEWS08/310120301/1023
.
.The first picture you see in this movie clip is "Fast forward to Oct 12th 2007.....It's the three of us, James, Gary and Frank. With James saying, "What do we do now, since my BMW is broken".......and of course you know how the movie ends, with my character saying........"You should have bought a KLR"................................Lol

[Tourmeister]

Hey Richard,

Thinking of adding my name to the list.
Not quite sure how I would get down there, possibly haul the bike to S. Texas and leave the truck, then ride across. I am curious if you have a route already mapped out (no GPS) to get to Galeana from any S. Texas crossing.

If anybody has any room let me know. Or wants to ride with me let me know. I'm up for any suggestion. I am in Montgomery, Tx.

I'll be on a 650L FWIW.

Thanks, Les

:tab I will be leaving Huntsville Wednesday with truck and trailer. I was thinking of heading to McAllen to take advantage of MightMouse's storage offer for the truck/trailer. I have one trailer that can take three 650 sized DS's and another that can handle five. I hope to make McAllen early enough that I can take care of all the paperwork that evening so that Thursday morning we could just ride on down to Galeana. I've not decided on a route from McAllen to Galeana, regardless I would MUCH rather have someone to ride with. I am not opposed to crossing at Laredo if there are more folks crossing there. Like I said, I'd really prefer to hook up with some other folks. I speak pretty much no Spanish. :doh:

[Chango]

Richard , Sin duda !!! (without doubt) I will ride the BMW on paved roads, arroyos , goat trails , just about anywhere it'll squeeze thru. Its like a dirt bike.

"I stay dirty for a reason. If you've been riding dirt as long as i have,
you'll notice that the combination of dirt and body oils will make you
WATERPROOF "

[Trail Boss]

My bad. I thought you were riding a new parallel twin BMW F800, not an older GS. I was thinking about following you around with my camera to get pics of how the F800 handled the dirt.

[Chango]

Saturday I plan on going to Eagle Pass and riding over to Allende and take care of paperwork in advance. Anyone want to meet up and go?

James in Sealy

[Stealth007]

Richard,

Add my name to the list as well as Jeremy McReynolds

Roger Dill (Stealth007)

[Trail Boss]

Richard,

Add my name to the list as well as Jeremy McReynolds

Roger Dill (Stealth007)

Roger,

Welcome to both you and Jeremy. I've added both of you to the list.

[linx310]

New KLR rider here....found this site and this trip is exactly what i am looking for but I have a few questions.

1. Is a passport required even though the law says it doesn't go into effect until 2008? Reason i ask is because i don't think it would be possible to get one in time unless I shelled out big bucks for rushed one.

2. Is there any one near San Marcos Texas that I could bum a trailer and a ride down to Mexico. Being a poor college student (who is a San Marcos local btw) I do not own a trailer or a vehicle of transporting the bike. I would be willing to help pay for gas.

3. Can we camp instead of sleep in the hotel room? Being a poor college student means limiting my expenses. Or can just split the cost of a hotel room with a few people? **** I don't mind sleeping on the floor if any of you would want an extra person to pitch in for a room.

I don't understand much Spanish, and have limited off road experience with my KLR. I have a open mind when it comes to advice and would like to learn from some of you veterans since not to many people in my age group ride DS bikes (most own sport bikes). So this would truly be a adventure for me.

[Trail Boss]

1. The most current info tells us that drivers can still cross into Mexico using their birth certificate (the one issued by the state). Those driving into Mexico don't yet need a passport.

That being said, there is always the chance some bureaucrat at the border hasn't gotten the word and thinks a passport is required, which would slow your border crossing down to get it worked out.

2. Can anyone here help linx310 out with a ride?

3. Not sure about the camping since I've never been to this area, but I would guess you could find a hidden place to quietly camp somewhere outside of town. Rooms are going to be $25-$30 per night. There are not enough rooms at the hotel Jardin for everyone that is attending to have a single room, so I'm expecting a lot of us will have roommates, which cuts the rooms costs down to $12-15 per person per night. I would be surprised if you weren't able to team up with someone and split a room.

[Chango]

Richard , if anyone is interested in doing a pre- Mexico DS ride. Some of us will be going this Sunday 9/30 (weather permitting) for an approx. 110 mile
ride of Austin & Colorado counties . Basically check out new tire patterens , equipt, rider , and machine. Two awesome stream crossings and hilly dirt roads. Meet up at Tony's Restuarant in Sealy 8:30 and leave out at 10:00.

James in Sealy

BMW R80GS
Monark Enduro

[thumper]

Richard , if anyone is interested in doing a pre- Mexico DS ride.
Meet up at Tony's Restuarant in Sealy 8:30 and leave out at 10:00.

James in Sealy

BMW R80GS
Monark Enduro

Sounds good to me. See ya there.:rider:

[Tourmeister]

:tab So who is crossing at McAllen and when? I've got a truck/trailer and plan to leave Huntsville Wednesday morning, spend the night in McAllen, then ride to Galeana Thursday. I'd REALLY prefer to hook up with someone at McAllen because I have NO desire to ride down alone. I figure Sunday will be a marathon run from Galeana back to Huntsville.

Oh yeah... I will be taking the KLR, not the Strom ;-)

[rccline]

When I try to access the GPS links on your website for the Mountain Recon ride, the file is in XML format, not gpx. How do you acquire the files in a format my gps can read?

Thanks.

Robert Cline
Houston, TX

[Trail Boss]

When I try to access the GPS links on your website for the Mountain Recon ride, the file is in XML format, not gpx. How do you acquire the files in a format my gps can read?

Thanks.

Robert Cline
Houston, TX

Robert,

I just downloaded (right click, select "save link as") 2 of the routes to see if they downloaded as .gpx or as .xml files. Both downloaded to my computer as .gpx and I was able to open both in Mapsource.

I don't know why they are downloading as .xml files for you. Send me an email and I can reply with them as an attachment. (rgibbens@austin.rr.com)

[rccline]

[QUOTE=Richard_;301169]1. The most current info tells us that drivers can still cross into Mexico using their birth certificate (the one issued by the state). Those driving into Mexico don't yet need a passport.

That being said, there is always the chance some bureaucrat at the border hasn't gotten the word and thinks a passport is required, which would slow your border crossing down to get it worked out.
QUOTE]

The passport problem is not with the Mexican government, but is with the US Government. You may have problems returning. You may travel with certain documents to Mexico without having a US Passport, BUT, you must have applied for a passport.

The good news is, you may start the passport application online.

http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/status/status_2567.html

Robert Cline
Houston, Tx

[Trail Boss]

Here's an email I received from Adventure Mexico (the company I buy my Mexico motorcycle insurance from):

"Until June 2009, you do NOT need a passport to drive in Mexico.

If you plan on DRIVING to Mexico before June 2009, you can still use your US or Canadian Drivers License as identification for crossing back into the US. You will NOT need a passport for driving or walking across the border back into the US until June 2009.

The new passport requirement for 2007 ONLY applies to AIR TRAVEL!

There has been a lot of confusion this year about the new passport requirements for traveling to Mexico from the US or Canada. Adventure Mexican Insurance Services has done a lot of research on this issue, and we would like to provide our customers with the most current and clear information on this topic. If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact our office at 800-485-4075 or email: info@mexadventure.com

Below is a quick summary of the new passport legislation, and a timeline of when the changes are expected to be implemented:

Why is the Passport Law Changing?
As part of the The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, the Department of Homeland Security is supposed to implement a plan that requires all travelers to the US to provide a passport or similar documentation upon entry into the US. This requirement applies to all US citizens and foreign travelers. This plan is called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.
Read more about the WHTI - NOTE - this webpage still lists the January 2008 deadline, but the documentation below will show that the deadline has been changed to sometime around June 2009. Also, note the difference between Air and Land travel.

When Will Passports be Required for Re-Entering the US from Mexico?
This is where the confusion lies!
The passport requirements are being applied at different dates for different types of travel. There are 3 different classifications for traveling into the US.

1: Air Travel - (By airplane):
As of January 23, 2007, all travelers - including US and Canadian citizens are now required to have a passport when entering the US by airplane.

2: Sea Travel - (By boat or cruise ship):
The exact deadline for when passports (or similar documentation) will be required for entering the US by sea has not been set. However, current legislation has been passed that requires the deadline to be no later than June 2009. The sea travel deadline will be the same as the land travel deadline.

3: Land Border Travel - (Driving a vehicle or walking across the border):
The exact deadline for when passports (or similar documentation) will be required for entering the US by land has not been set. However, current legislation has been passed that requires the deadline to be no later than June 2009. The land travel deadline will be the same as the sea travel deadline.

Why has the Passport Requirement for Land Border Travel Been Delayed?
Originally, the passport requirements for land border travel were supposed to be implemented by January 2008, but in October 2006, the President signed into law a delay of this deadline until June 2009. The main reason for the delay is because the Department of Homeland Security is attempting to develop a PASS CARD system. This system will create drivers license-sized cards that will serve as limited use passports for land border entries from Mexico and the US. The Senate recognized that the PASS CARD system could not be properly implemented by the original deadline, so they passed the Leahy-Stevens Amendment which delayed the deadline until sometime prior to (or on) June 2009.
Read the actual legislation from Senator Leahy's website
Read the documentation of the President signing the June 2009 deadline - Page 3; bottom right paragraph

Should You Get a Passport Now?
If you think you may be driving to Mexico after June 2009, then you should probably go ahead and get a passport sometime soon. The passport processing times will only get longer as we get closer to the passport requirement deadline. It is currently taking up to 15 weeks to receive a new passport without paying extra for expedition. Plus - you already need a passport if you want to travel to Mexico by airplane!

Links on How to Obtain a US Passport:
First Time Passport
Where To Apply for a Passport
Renew or Get a Paspport in a Hurry

We hope this information is helpful for you, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the passport requirements for traveling to Mexico. We will also keep you posted if we hear of any updates on this issue.

As always, we look forward to providing you with quality Mexican auto insurance on your next trip to Mexico!

Regards,

Adventure Mexican Insurance Services
www.mexadventure.com"

[miltonotto]

You don't need squat to get back into the USofA. DL will do. But to avoid extreme disappointment or fancy footwork at the customs house, please pay attention to the details.

To obtain a Mexican Tourist Card (your 1st step in getting your bike in) you'll need a photo ID and one of the following (originals only – no photocopies)
Passport
Birth Certificate
Voter Registration
Certificate of Nationality

The border guys do not like photocopies of Birth Certificates, I'm warning you. I once saw a companion slip in with a copy of a birth certificate substanciated by an expired passport, but I consider that a fluke. Once I got a 13 yr old in (no papers at all) with a lot of pleading and a mordida but that was in the old days. Are you feeling lucky? I've seen one companion turned away cause he didn't cancell his car papers from a previous trip. Bummer.

Things you must have to enter Mexico with a motorcycle:
 An unexpired passport or certified birth certificate (no photocopies)
 A major unexpired credit card in your name
 An unexpired driver’s license
 The title or unexpired registration to your bike (and/or car and trailer). One or the other is sufficient. It must have your name listed (no photocopies)
 As a precaution, any old cancellation papers from previous trip

[Tourmeister]

As a precaution, any old cancellation papers from previous trip

I put the receipt from the Banjercito for my last in my passport so I will be sure to have it with me for future trips. Just in case...

So no one heading through Huntsville or near Huntsville that wants to hook up for the run down?

[Gilk51]

When I try to access the GPS links on your website for the Mountain Recon ride, the file is in XML format, not gpx. How do you acquire the files in a format my gps can read?

I think that if you do a right click and "save target as" that you will get the GPX file as needed. GPX is an XML format - so just rename it with the gpx suffix after you download it. (I just tried it and it did the same thing to me)

[thumper]

Richard , if anyone is interested in doing a pre- Mexico DS ride. Some of us will be going this Sunday 9/30 (weather permitting) for an approx. 110 mile
ride of Austin & Colorado counties . Basically check out new tire patterens , equipt, rider , and machine. Two awesome stream crossings and hilly dirt roads. Meet up at Tony's Restuarant in Sealy 8:30 and leave out at 10:00.

James in Sealy

BMW R80GS
Monark Enduro

James, are y'all still doing this? Anyone else going?

[DrBlackbird]

James, are y'all still doing this? Anyone else going?
bump

[Chango]

Yeah , still goin Sunday . It looks like three or four of us so far .
Hey Dr. Blackbird , will your bike still be down for upgrades?



James in Sealy

[DrBlackbird]

Down but not out........"We can rebuild it, we have the technology" The 6 million $ KLR........****, just about every part I buy for it has 2 zeros behind it. When I'm finished with it, it'll run on Tequilla and climb the side of mountains.
.
Have fun, but take it easy, Ya don't want to screw up and ruin your trip down south
.
.
.
............Doc

[Cagiva 549]

How many miles per bottle will it get and will it get better mileage on Patron then Sauza . This sounds like an expensive trip . SEYA

[nimrod]

Anyone going to the ADV rider event in Creel after Richard's Mt. Recon? It's the 16th - 18th and I'm looking for a riding partner for an easy 2-day run to Creel. Anyone interested let me know.

[AusFletch]

Anyone going to the ADV rider event in Creel after Richard's Mt. Recon? It's the 16th - 18th and I'm looking for a riding partner for an easy 2-day run to Creel. Anyone interested let me know.

I plan to cross the border en route to Mazatlan on the 21st but I guess that doesn't really help. Sorry.

[Cagiva 549]

Anyone going to the ADV rider event in Creel after Richard's Mt. Recon? It's the 16th - 18th and I'm looking for a riding partner for an easy 2-day run to Creel. Anyone interested let me know.

Its possible , we will know a few days before departure time , possibly three of us . SEYA

[Eulogite]

TM, I'll ride down with you from McAllen. What's the rendezvous point?

[miltonotto]

A recent trip to the general vecinity. Check out Ejtv's other posts if you haven't seen them already. This guy rocks. http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5393616#post5393616

[Chango]

Yes , he does rock .... Great story and photos .


James in Sealy

BMW R80GS "Schek Replica"
1972 Monark Enduro
1937 BMW R12 w/sidecar
1976 Maico GS

[DrBlackbird]

Just got back from the Mexican Consulate in Houston....(4507 San Jacinto).
.
I was the only one in the room, took all of 10 minutes............
.
Needed:.....
1) Passport...or...Birth certificate
2) Drivers Lic.
3) Credit Card
4) Vehicle proof of ownership
.
You can only get a 180 day visa and vehicle permit......cost 438.77 pesos.
.
You or your wife can do the paper work at the window, asked and was told so.
.
Vehicle permit must be turned in at the border and only the border not the exceed the 180 days.

[thumper]

Just got back from the Mexican Consulate in Houston....(4507 San Jacinto).
.
I was the only one in the room, took all of 10 minutes............
You can only get a 180 day visa and vehicle permit......cost 438.77 pesos.


I'm thinking of doing the same. Doc, What time of day did you go? Did you notice if it was the same cost for multiple vehicles on one permit?

I'm also gonna try to exchange currency here in Houston so I'm not waiting for them to open at the border.

Another detail has changed in my plans. I'm now crossing at McAllen since CeeBee got his papers for there instead of Laredo.:argh: Dang Tourist!:lol2:

We'll be crossing together at dawn with our bikes in seperate trucks. So Scott we could follow you on your bike if you want. I think it would be better to be tailgated by a couple of gringos instead of some local truck drivers.:eek2:

Anyone else crossing there at that time Thursday?

[DrBlackbird]

I was there after lunch....I think any time after 1:00 would be fine.
.
Don't know about multiple vehicles.

[Tourmeister]

Well, if all goes according the plan of the minute... I'll be trucking to Laredo and back with Cagiva549 and crew.

[Chango]

I'm thinking of doing the same. Doc, What time of day did you go? Did you notice if it was the same cost for multiple vehicles on one permit?

I'm also gonna try to exchange currency here in Houston so I'm not waiting for them to open at the border.

Another detail has changed in my plans. I'm now crossing at McAllen since CeeBee got his papers for there instead of Laredo.:argh: Dang Tourist!:lol2:

We'll be crossing together at dawn with our bikes in seperate trucks. So Scott we could follow you on your bike if you want. I think it would be better to be tailgated by a couple of gringos instead of some local truck drivers.:eek2:

Anyone else crossing there at that time Thursday?

There should be multiple currency exchange places on the U.S. side before the bridge...... Myself and Robert (rccline) are crossing at Roma Texas and
Dropping down into the Allende/Linares areas.

Encuentramos el groupo en Galeana !!!!!

Ciao , Chango !!!!!!!!

[miltonotto]

I'm also gonna try to exchange currency here in Houston so I'm not waiting for them to open at the border.

At Laredo and McAllen there are 24hour Casa de Cambios. I think you get the best exchange rates right at the border, personally I perfer the US side. South of the river you'll be stressed enough with mini culture shock to have to worry about changing money in a foreign land.

[Tourmeister]

I'm out :tears: :headbang:

I've been pushing trying to make this happen and everything is just pushing back harder and harder... So I am going to take the hint and let this trip go. It pains me to no end because I know it is going to be an awesome trip!! I look forward to all the reports and pics. Have fun and be safe!

[thumper]

The fastest, quickest way down is to cross at Laredo, take cuota toll roads that route you towards Saltillo completely bypassing Monterrey to the north, and then Saltillo to the East, down 4-lane divided Hwy 57(?) to San Roberto and then east to Galeana.

If you want to cross at McAllen, take the cuota (toll) road towards Monterrey but exit at Cadereyta, south to Allende, then south on Hwy 85 to Linares where you turn towards Galeana. This route takes you thru the twisty Santa Rosa canyon between Linares and Inturbide, which is a pretty neat road in its own right.

Who's going which way and when are you crossing? I got my permit today [for McAllen], but the girl told me it really doesn't matter where I cross and I don't have to return at the same point. All that mattered is I turn my permit in when coming back.

[AusFletch]

Another detail has changed in my plans. I'm now crossing at McAllen since CeeBee got his papers for there instead of Laredo.:argh: Dang Tourist!:lol2:



FWIW, I just got my Importador from Banjercito in Austin. One of my travelling buddies got his last week and noted Piedras Negras as his point of entry. We are still not sure if we are crossing there or NL so I asked if we were committed to crossing there. Banjercito rep said we could enter and exit anywhere we like and the notation was only for informational/statistical purposes. Of course, no warranties express or implied and YMMV but I felt comfortable enough that I put PN on mine and am not worried if we decide to divert to NL. :trust:
-Fletch

[Chango]

Hi everyone !!! While on Mexico roads u will encounter " Topes" .
A sort of Speed bump like no other Speed bump . They are usually
located as you enter a populated area and or in school zones.
I once saw a unknowing KLR rider do a nose dive over one.

James in Sealy

[DrBlackbird]

Electrical Question..............Charging camera batteries, plugging in razors,...?
.
Which type of plug prongs is used in Mexico? I have the round pronged type used for Europe...........Is Mexico on the "Flat Blade" or "Round Prong" and are they on 110 or 220 volt.
.
.
.........Doc

[Trail Boss]

Electrical Question..............Charging camera batteries, plugging in razors,...?
.
Which type of plug prongs is used in Mexico? I have the round pronged type used for Europe...........Is Mexico on the "Flat Blade" or "Round Prong" and are they on 110 or 220 volt.
.
.
.........Doc

Doc,

I believe they use the same flat blade prongs we use and that they are 110v, but don't know that for a fact.

[miltonotto]

Mexico uses the same electrical setup as we in the USA.

Mexican speed bumps (topes) are BAAAAAD. Last March a riding buddy of mine hit one so hard he messed up his wrist big time. If you're feeling morbid you can read the story at Clayton's fall (http://miltonotto.typepad.com/weblog1/2007/03/are_we_having_f_1.html). He's OK now, the docs put him back together, but please youse guys, remember, anything can happen in Mexico. It's the land of personal responsibility and open man holes are most likely unmarked. But that's what makes it such a great place. Please be careful.

Question: Anyone trailering or ortherwise hauling from Austin to Laredo with extra room?? Like, on Wednesday??

[thumper]

Doc,

I believe they use the same flat blade prongs we use and that they are 110v, but don't know that for a fact.

I'm told they're flat[110] and hardly anyone ever sees the round 3 prong anymore.

[Chango]

Carbon / soot on road .... For those especially who might be coming down from Acuna ,Piedras Negras via hwy 57 . Theres multiple Coal mines in the areas and residue on the road. When wet from dew or rain it can be very slick. I saw a rider go down on this stuff in a curve and bust his hip up.
Also , oil accumalation from worn / leaking vehicles . This will be in the center of the lane.
I have'nt seen oil lines that thick in the U.S. for years. Con Cuidado !!!!!!!


milton is right ....

[Eulogite]

Woot! Pumping up,now. Just got the bike back together. I started to de-farkle the Vstrom for this trip to save weight and have it ready to drop; as in put the factory windscreen back on it. Then I decided I ain't doing 500 mile freeway days without my toys and comfort factors.

As it stands, I'm leaving about 5am Wednesday from Lavon (NE of Dallas) and go straight to the Mexican Consulate in Austin and get my papers. Then I'll head to Rio Grande City. If I understand correctly, I'll be able to cross at Roma with James and Robert with my paperwork from Austin.

Does that sound right?

[Trail Boss]

Alan,

FYI: The consulate in Austin will give you the vehicle permit, but not the tourist permit. You will still have to stop at the border to purchase the tourist permit ($20).

[Trail Boss]

The current weather forecast for Galeana for next week:

Thursday, 30% chance of rain, hi 81, low 54
Friday, 30% chance of rain, hi 81, low 55
Saturday, Sunny, hi 84, low 55
Sunday, Sunny, hi 82, low 55

Always subject to change, of course.

[miltonotto]

Woot! Pumping up,now.
As it stands, I'm leaving about 5am Wednesday from Lavon (NE of Dallas) and go straight to the Mexican Consulate in Austin and get my papers. Then I'll head to Rio Grande City. If I understand correctly, I'll be able to cross at Roma with James and Robert with my paperwork from Austin.

Does that sound right?
Don't forget the Mexican Consulate in Austin closes at 1pm!
Once you have your vehicle papers, they are good at any border.

One point: the Mexican consulate will not issue you a Tourist Card, so you still have to do that at the border. (I'm not sure why this is, its just a different agency I guess.) Well, you have to pay money for the Tourist Card so I guess that's one thing. But at least a visit to the consulate gives you the peace of mind knowing that your vehicle won't be refused for some silly reason after you've driven all the way to the bottom edge of Texas. So, bottom line, even with a visit to the consulate you still have to go the Temporary Importacion of Vehicles building, aka Control de Internacion Temporal de Vehiculos, (look for the CIITEV signs), on the Mexican side of the border to secure your Tourist Card. I can't remember exactly what happens next, after the tourist card, but I think you still have to go thru the Banjercito line there in the same building. You will already have your vehicle papers and photocopies but you still have to go thru the line, I guess to file those all important photocopies. Again, the advantage of visiting the consulate first is the peace of mind knowing you can't screw up at this point. I think that's right. Anyone else done this before?

My experience is that everyone working in the temp importation of vehicles building is very helpful and if you just wave your papers around and look pathetic and lost someone will direct you to the right window. In Nuevo Laredo they have it set-up windows 1, 2, 3, etc. You just go to the widow with the next number.

[miltonotto]

Probably afternoon showers are the norm. Just guessing.

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/134068552-L.gif
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/204506657-M.jpg
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/204506663-M.jpg
Nuevo Laredo

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/204506634-M.jpg

After this place your next hurdle is the check point 26 km into Mexico, which is a cake walk. After that you are in free fall. You have just bailed out of a perfectly good airplane. Enjoy the ride.

[DrBlackbird]

If I understand correctly, I'll be able to cross at Roma with James and Robert with my paperwork from Austin.

Does that sound right?
Why are you wanting to hook up with those two guys in Roma, Come ride with some "MEN" crossing at Laredo. I've heard rumors that,..that James guy rides like a little girl.......As a matter of fact, her,...I mean His bike is even a shade of lite red, or should I say "Pink"
.
I hope you know what you're doing.........

[jm8697]

Help me decide klr or vstrom 650> Don't want to limit my self too much with the strom. Sure would enjoy the ride down there better. Help....

[Eulogite]

Alan,

FYI: The consulate in Austin will give you the vehicle permit, but not the tourist permit. You will still have to stop at the border to purchase the tourist permit ($20).


Then my question is: Can I purchase the tourist permit at Roma or Rio Grande City? Do all crossings have that service?

[miltonotto]

Then my question is: Can I purchase the tourist permit at Roma or Rio Grande City? Do all crossings have that service?
That's the way I understand it. Every crossing should be able to sell you a tourist card/permit. And you can only get them at the border crossings, or airports.

Help me decide klr or vstrom 650> Don't want to limit my self too much with the strom. Sure would enjoy the ride down there better. Help....
Always the question. Ask Richard, he's familiar with both. Also, there's gonna be plenty of roads for both. IMHO, I think even the KLR is gonna feel big on the rougher routes, but heck, there's limits to everything and no one bike does it all, do it? Which brings us back to: there's gonna be plenty of roads and routes for all kinds of bikes. Some of these "roads" are downright brutal what with rocks and steep inclines, but then again a lot of it is paved or graded. I started out ridin' a Harley down there, and had a blast, but..... trust me, you don't want to go there.

[Eulogite]

Just in case I need to know, where is Recon headquarters in Laredo Wednesday evening?

[DrBlackbird]

Just in case I need to know, where is Recon headquarters in Laredo Wednesday evening?

Parking lot of "Hooters"..............any Questions

[nimrod]

I'm out guys. The bike and I argued and it won. A few screws and some sheet metal was the fix but the doc said 6 weeks at the earliest. :giveup: I know you'll have an excellent trip so 'till next time ...