The Mountain Recon [Archive]

DrBlackbird

10-15-2007, 10:24 PM

For those inquiring minds that want to know,...."How was it?".......Well all I can say is..."Great"........
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There's so much to see and ride down there, we didn't by any stretch get to see all of it. And for those that were afraid and listened to all the rumors......20 miles away from the border, people were just like country folk here in Texas, everyone waved, offered you food and drink, were so happy that you came up to them and talked to them.......... However, Not too many of them could read a map or tell you how long it would take to get to the next village......But they were friendly and tried to help. Three of us were resting under a tree after our very rough descent from 12,200ft view when a little old Mexican lady approached us with a bag of fresh picked apples and handed it to us. We, thinking that she was trying to sell it to us, tried to offer her some pesos, but she just smiled and walked back into her adobe house..........On our Sat. ride through the valley, on a dirt road up in the mountains, we ran across a small village that was throwing an authentic "Pinata Party" for all the school kids. We passed,.... stopped and slowly walked back to take some pictures all the while thinking they would run us off. The elder who was dressed like a clown walked directly over to us, and I thought "Here we go", but in broken English he not only didn't run us off, he invited us to join the party and have some refreshments........We must have presented quite a sight, big boots, jackets, dusty faces........But they welcomed us to their little celebration..............
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To those that didn't make it this time......Not if, but when there is another ride down there, you better think twice about saying you had to stay home and "Sort your Sock drawer"..............
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This Mexican trip was great for me and all those I spoke with.........

ilv2wheels

10-15-2007, 10:59 PM

Looks like a great trip, I hope there's more coming! :popcorn:

treysmagna

10-16-2007, 06:37 AM

Looks like every one had a great trip. Too bad my wife birthday was last weekend. I want to go down there and the DR is ready to go. Great pics, keep them coming.

miltonotto

10-16-2007, 08:18 AM

La Huasteca Canyon
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208947113-L.jpg

No store in El Pajonal
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208947504-L.jpg

Puerto Conejo, 4550M = 8366’ elevation
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208947060-M.jpg

Obligatory shot of refueling, Mexico style
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208947759-M.jpg

Richard & the girls
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208947749-M.jpg

Thumper, rearin' to go
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208947727-M.jpg

Busted Knuckle (Gary), keeping dry, Inturbide-Cuevas road
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208948458-M.jpg

Saturday night in Galeana, the Cuban dancers used our hotel as a dressing room. You can't make this stuff up.
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208948822-M.jpg

Our bikes and the temporary stage, Galeana plaza
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208948424-L.jpg

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/208948777-L.jpg

The Bruce

10-16-2007, 08:24 AM

:coffee: Can someone post a list of the bikes that made the trip? Please.

Trail Boss

10-16-2007, 09:21 AM

I don't know if I can list all the bikes, but there were 17 total. I recall:

multiple KLRs
2 or 3 Wee-Stroms
1 x V-Strom
1 x KTM Super Moto (990SM if I recall correctly)
2 or 3 DR 350s
1 x BMW R80GS
1 x KLX 650
1 x Yamaha WR450

DrBlackbird

10-16-2007, 09:57 AM

Richard, Milton..........
.
When we left you and headed down from the clouds, you were still working on the KLX. What was the final outcome, and how did you get the bike down the mountain.
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First day paper work...Wasn't too bad
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209008995-M.jpg

Packed and ready to get dirty
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009007-M.jpg

Didn't drink the water
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009045-M.jpg

Even the Slab was Great
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009074-M.jpg

This river bottom runs for miles n miles with crossings through "See the bottom" clear mountain water
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009092-M.jpg

Some "Serious" hill climbing trails
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009128-M.jpg

Our KTM Orange Hotel
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009151-M.jpg

The food was great, as you can see by the empty plates.....Jerry n Roger
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009163-M.jpg

"Tail of the Dragon"...off road version....Rode this on Sat. and it lived up to this name.
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009176-M.jpg

12,200 Ft high.....The bikes and the "Older Guys" didn't run too good up here
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209020673-M.jpg

Mile after mile of this, with trails branching off in all directions
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009211-M.jpg

Got caught up in the mountains after the sun went down........We circled the bikes around us to protect us from the (Chupacabra)......Blood Suckers Terrorize Northern Mexico

They might be creatures of myth and legend; stalkers of the night that feed on the blood of the living. Or they could be figments of superstitious minds; conjured through folklore or ignorance, born of fear and propagated by the shadows of night.
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209030996-M.jpg

"The Real Deal" an authentic Mexican Pinata party for the village kids...
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009230-M.jpg

Two guys from up Ohio way that were going from coast to coast through Mexico.....Good looking original "Dakar GS's"
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009114-M.jpg

Wished I spoke more Spanish......................For directions I mean
http://drblackbird.smugmug.com/photos/209009262-M.jpg

Trail Boss

10-16-2007, 04:50 PM

The 2007 Mountain Recon

I don’t recall exactly when the idea of putting together an adventure / dual sport rally in the mountains south of Monterrey first occurred to me, but the desire to go ride that area had been rattling around in my brain for quite some time. I had stumbled across a couple of ride reports about the area and it seemed to be full of adventure potential. At some point the thought of just taking a trip to ride there turned into the idea of having a rally there. But it was just an idea, with no real substance and no real plan of when to go or exactly where to ride. I knew if I didn’t make a firm decision it would just continue to be a vague idea so in the early months of 2007 I finally drew a line in the sand, picked a date, and posted an invitation on my web site for others to join me. The die was cast.

Over the next few months I worked diligently at organizing the ride. I searched the internet for as much information about that area as I could find (there wasn’t much). I purchased topographically maps of the area so I would have as much info on the unpaved roads and trails in the area as was available. And, most importantly, fortunate smiled on me and led me to Milton Otto, a veteran of multiple adventure rides to the area who happened to live in the same town as I (Austin). Milton’s extensive knowledge of the area and willingness to share was of inestimable value in putting this event together – I can’t thank him enough for all his help and advice.

Milton Otto and his KLX650 deep in Canyon Huasteca, Mexico
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00199.jpg

The basic plan was for riders to link up on a Thursday evening in the town of Galeana, Mexico, in the middle of the Sierra Madre mountains south of the city of Monterrey. Riders would organize into small 2-6 man recon teams and spend Friday and Saturday exploring the seemingly countless unpaved roads and trails running throughout the mountains. Based on the intel Milton provided, I plotted out several recon routes and planned to ask the teams to go ride them and provide feedback on things like the level of difficulty of the route, if they encountered any stores, gasoline, or towns along the way, the amount of time it took to complete the route, and the scenic rating. The recons would fill in missing information about the area and, if this ride turned out as well as I hoped, would allow me to provide recommended routes for next year’s rally.

Galeana, Mexico, 100 miles south of Monterrey, in the Sierra Madre mountains of Mexico
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/Galeana.jpg

Day 1: Austin to Monterrey

The recon team I was with consisted of four of us riding down together from Austin – David, Jerry, Matt, and I. Dave and Matt were both riding KLRs while Jerry and I were on Wee-Stroms.

We wanted to make a full adventure out of this trip, so instead of slabbing it all the way to Galeana in one day (a little more than 500 miles from Austin), we had decided to take 2 days to ride down. Day 1 we would ride pavement all the way to Monterrey and then spend Day 2 dual sport riding through the mountains south to Galeana.

We met up on Wednesday morning in the parking lot of Cabella’s in Buda, TX and our adventure was underway.

Matt & Dave, bikes packed, ready for Mexico
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00152.jpg

The ride to Monterrey was mostly uneventful. We took interstate 35 from Austin south almost all the way to Laredo. We didn’t want to cross at Laredo because we expected it to be very busy so we diverted northwest 30 miles to the crossing at Columbia. This proved to be a good choice as there was no traffic whatsoever when we got there. We were able to get our paperwork done without having to wait on even a single person in front of us.

Matt just beginning his paperwork drill
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00155.jpg

Dave finishing up his paperwork
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00156.jpg

It was good to be back in Mexico. I sure like riding here.

Once the paperwork was completed, we headed south on highway NL 1. This highway appears to see little use, with most traffic taking the toll road between Laredo and Monterrey and we encountered very few vehicles until we reached the northern outskirts of Monterrey. Little traffic also means much fewer services like Pemex gas stations and restaurants. There weren’t a lot of choices along this route, but we didn’t need much. A late lunch stop at a small restaurant / store several miles south of the border was all we needed to stop for until reaching Monterrey.

Lunch at Restaurante El Alamo
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00159.jpg

$5.50 for a T-bone steak, frijoles, and tortillas
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00161.jpg

The chief cook and bottle washer (actually the only cook and bottle washer)
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00160.jpg

Dave waiting for lunch to finish cooking
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00162.jpg

The local motorcycle police stopped by to say hello
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00163.jpg

Once lunch was completed, we continued on our way. This part of Mexico is a flat, hot desert with no mountains in sight. About 100 miles later, though, the mountains came into view, giving us something interesting to look at and raising our excitement. Anticipation has a way of doing that, doesn’t it?

About mid-afternoon we reached the town of Bustmante. A friend had told me about some caves in the area and I wanted to see them. I spotted the sign directing us to the Grutas de Bustamante so we diverted west for 10km to check them out.

The caves of Bustamante are a ways up the left side of the canyon
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00164.jpg

We decided, in the interest of time, to not take the hike up the valley to the caves, settling instead for pictures of the area. The view looking back to the east was sure nice from up here.

Looking east from the caves parking lot
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00165.jpg

Unfortunately, that was the last of the good riding for the day. We hit traffic coming into Monterrey and rode in traffic for the rest of the day. Worse, the freeway that we took to the west side of town was under construction. Traffic was diverted off the 4-lane freeway to a side road and a 3-way unmarked intersection. As would be expected, this hopelessly snarled traffic creating a backup several miles long. While sitting in traffic I noticed that vehicles were passing me in the ditch next to the road, lane splitting (ditch splitting?) up to the front of the traffic jam. Hey, we are on adventure bikes and a ditch is no problem. All 4 of us dropped into the ditch and worked our way through the traffic jam. Dave called it urban dual sporting, which I thought was a great description. We eventually made it to the front, through the intersection, and on our way. I estimate we saved more than an hour of sitting in traffic with our Mexican lane splitting maneuver.

Once we reached the southwest side of Monterrey (actually the town of Santa Catarina, but I wasn’t able to tell where Santa Catarina ended and Monterrey began), we spent about an hour riding in traffic, looking for a motel. At this point the sun was down and we weren’t having any luck locating a place to stay. In an email to me a few days earlier, Milton had suggested we stay at the Best Western but our group wanted something more authentic Mexico and a little less expensive. Eventually we gave up and decided the Best Western would be fine. Luckily, right about then, a fellow on a Harley pulled up next to us at a stop light. I greeted him and asked him to guide us to the hotel, which he was happy to do. We pulled into the parking lot of the motel about 8 p.m., having spent 12 hours traveling. Long days on the road, arriving after dark and much later than expected turned out to be a main characteristic of this ride, as you will see.

Matt was concerned that his chain was worn out and thought it needed to be replaced. Being the squared away individual that he is he had everything he needed to conduct a chain change – new chain, chain punch, and chain link press.

Swapping out the chaim
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00168.jpg

Dinner was at the Cabrito & Steak Restaurante
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00172.jpg

After a bit of food and a few cold ones, off to bed we went looking forward to tomorrow. We anticipated about 8 hours of good dual sport riding on day 2, but little did we know that Mexico had something else in mind for us.

AusFletch

10-16-2007, 05:28 PM

little did we know that Mexico had something else in mind for us.

Man, I have been eagerly waiting for this stuff. Great start! Don't be too coy. I am leaving for the same area in 5 days and need the vicarious thrill. I know I should be packing and planning but I prefer to share y'all's adventure.

:popcorn: :flip: :popcorn: :flip: :popcorn: :flip:

Trail Boss

10-16-2007, 05:47 PM

I am leaving for the same area in 5 days...

Wish I was going with you. The riding there is wonderful! I'll be looking forward to your ride report upon your return.

AusFletch

10-16-2007, 06:10 PM

Wish I was going with you. The riding there is wonderful! I'll be looking forward to your ride report upon your return.

We originallly planned a Mazatlan raid then shifted over to a Colonial loop due to time constraints but after reading Otto's reports and the start of yours we will likely shift even further east to check out the Sierra Madres. Keep it coming! :clap:

miltonotto

10-16-2007, 06:16 PM

Richard, Milton..........When we left you and headed down from the clouds, you were still working on the KLX. What was the final outcome, and how did you get the bike down the mountain.
Gary, I finally just buttoned it back up and pointed 'er down hill. Gravity finally cranked the motor, but it crapped out a couple of times on the way back to the hotel, only to restart with lots of improvisional mojo. We had no idea what we were doing, or at least, what the problem was. That evening and the next morning the KLX started right up and purred like a kitten!?! I rode it 300 miles north and it crapped out again on the outskirts of Nuevo Laredo. Miraculously I babied it right up to the bridge where it quit for the last time. I pushed it across the bridge, found storage, had it towed and took a bus home to Austin. Richard, Jerry and Dave were very patient and concerned..., for about 5 minutes, and I was left on my own.

Since then I have heard that the pilot jet takes over from the idle jet at about 3k RPM. I had been having trouble running below 3k RPM since Thursday. Hummmm. Plan on picking up the bike this weekend.

Trail Boss

10-16-2007, 06:39 PM

Day 2: Now What Do We Do?

Several days prior to leaving on this trip I asked Milton if he was going to ride down with us. He was not able to get away Wednesday morning to ride with us but suggested he would meet up with us in Monterrey and ride with us on Thursday. The challenge was I didn’t know what motel we would be staying at in Monterrey, so we arranged for me to email him our location once we arrived. Once we arrived at the Best Western I sent him an email letting him know we were there and would be leaving at 9 a.m. the next morning.

As it turned out, Milton didn’t leave Austin until about 7 p.m. Wednesday night and arrived in Monterrey on Thursday morning. By the time he got my email and called the Best Western we had departed, missing his call by just minutes.

The first part of our Day 2 route had us entering into Canon Huasteca and riding south to the paved Hwy 20. The map shows the road going all the way through. However, a friend of Milton’s had told him that the road was partially washed out due to a hurricane that had come through Mexico a few months earlier. The friend suggested that one part of the road had been reduced to a short single-track section.

From the hotel parking lot we could see the entrance to Canon Huasteca in the distance. The rocks were a beautiful white color I had never seen before.

Approaching the entrance to Canon Huasteca
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00175.jpg

Right after we entered the canyon, we spotted this cave high up on a cliff wall
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00177.jpg

The canyon was beautiful and dramatic, with cliffs soaring into the sky on both sides of the road. We passed a park area that I’m sure is very popular. The road in was paved and we passed several cyclists out for their morning workout. The air was cool and the riding and scenery were fantastic.

A few miles later the pavement ended, replaced by a class 1 unpaved road. You could tell that the road was less traveled and that fewer people ventured in this far. Then we came up to a massively huge dam. Wow!, what a sight. How much water comes through this canyon during a rain that requires such an enormous dam? I don’t know and it was dry when we went through here.

The road through the dam
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00178.jpg

As we continued south, the road got worse and worse. In short order it became a class 2 road and then a few miles further it reduced down to a class 3 road. The road follows the dry stream bed south, actually using the stream bed as the road bed in many areas. The loose rocks made riding difficult in many areas, somewhat similar to riding in sand, except with sand pebbles the size of golf balls. Riding in the stream bed required caution because it was so easy to wash out the front tire and go down, which occurred a few times.

I was having a great time. The road was proving to be much more difficult than I expected but nothing that we couldn’t handle and the scenery was amazing. I’m pleased to report that the two Wee-Stroms took it all in stride. What an amazing bike the Wee is.

Taking a short break, hanging out with a cow
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00179.jpg

Matt on his KLR
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00184.jpg

The road got pretty treacherous in some areas. Fun, but nasty.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00183.jpg

The loose rocks made riding difficult
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00193.jpg

The road won a few rounds. Not many, but a few
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00194.jpg

After several hours of riding we came upon Cosme, herding his goats. He lived in the canyon, many hours of travel from the nearest town. We stopped to visit and he told us there was no way to get through south, that the road was completely impassible. I was reluctant to believe him, knowing that if it was true we would have to backtrack for hours because there was no other way out of here. We discussed it and decided to continue up the road to see for ourselves. Perhaps Cosme was underestimating what the bikes were capable of doing.

A short distance later we encountered two guys on 4-wheelers riding north. They had been riding south ahead of us and were forced to turn back because the road was impassible. Reluctantly, we abandoned our attempt to make it south to Hwy 20, turned around and began the long journey back.

The end of the road. The road is impassible ahead and now we have miles of backtracking to do.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00196.jpg

Day 2 to be continued...

DrBlackbird

10-16-2007, 06:39 PM

Milton,...........Glad to see that you made it down. That road to the top was "Rough" and it was a bad place to break down......Felt bad about leaving you, but we had a long ride ahead of us.
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I think it's time to retire the old KLX........

Trail Boss

10-16-2007, 08:24 PM

Shortly after turning around I spotted a helmet and backpack just sitting on the ground next to the road. It wasn’t there when we had come through earlier. Whose was it? Then I heard someone hollering at me from a distance. It was Milton. He had been chasing us all day, but had gotten off course, crashed, and broken his clutch perch.

We walked with him to bike and did a trail-side repair of the clutch perch with JBWeld and zip ties. It worked so well he was able to ride his bike for the rest of the trip with no clutch issues.

Running into Milton on the trail
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00197.jpg

JB Welding the clutch perch
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00198.jpg

Once the clutch was repaired and Milton had extracted his bike from the creek bed, we planned our next course of action. About 7 miles back there was a road that went west toward Saltillo. We could run that road west for many miles until we reach another road that went south to Galeana. At this point I knew we would be racing against time. Our new route added many miles to our journey and it was becoming increasingly unlikely that we would reach Galeana for the 6 p.m. riders meeting. The good news was that the road west was not near as rough as the one we had been riding, so we could possible make better time. Off we went. Despite the time crunch, the riding was fantastic and the views were magnificient.

Heading west to El Pajonal
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00208.jpg

Arriving in El Pajonal, which consisted of just a few houses
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00212.jpg

El Pajonal. 16 habitants.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00210.jpg

I didn’t see Dave fall, but his blinker was busted when he got to El Pajonal.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00214.jpg

We continued riding west, headed for San Antonio de la Osamenta and hopefully a store. We were hot and low on water. It sure would be nice to find a store there and tank up on liquids. Sure enough, the first thing we spotted when we arrived was a small store. Closed.

Milton asked about the store and was directed to the owner’s house. The owner was outside and after a brief conversation agreed to open the store for us. Ahhhhh.

Negotiating to get the store opened
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00217.jpg

Wow, those drinks sure tasted good. Milton and Matt enjoying a pause that refreshes.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00219.jpg

The owner and his 2 daughters
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00220.jpg

Leaving San Antonio de la Osamenta, we climbed up and over the pass Puerto Del Conejo at around 7500 feet in elevation. Dropping back down into a valley on the other side, it wasn’t long before we reached El Carmen Las Vigas. The road continued to improve, allowing us to ride a little faster.

Headed west toward El Carmen and pavement
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00233.jpg

Once we finally reached pavement we had a decision to make. We could run pavement all the way to Galeana or we could run dirt. The advantage pavement had was that we knew we would be able to maintain a higher pace. The disadvantage was that the pavement was many, many miles further than the dirt route. The dirt route, while significantly shorter, was also somewhat unknown to us, nor did we know how quick of a pace we would be able to maintain on it. A brief discussion amongst the group and we selected the dirt route.

We stopped along the way and purchased gasoline Mexico style – from a plastic jug. A little store had a supply of gasoline in 5 liter jugs, so we each added 5 liters to our tanks. Sorry, I was pouring gas and didn’t get any pics.

For the next 4 hours we rode cross country, making our way to Galeana. Unfortunately, more than 2 hours of that was in the dark, crossing two mountain passes during the process.

We spent about an hour riding along this road, which in the dark made the riding very interesting indeed.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00272.jpg

Finally, at 10:30 p.m., after 12 hours on the bikes and only 4.5 hours late for the riders meeting, we arrived in Galeana. All that was left to do this day was to check into our rooms, have a quick riders meeting so teams and routes for the next day could be decided upon, drink a couple of cold ones, and tell a few lies and exaggerations about the day. Despite not turning out like we planned and pretty much whuppin our butts, it had been a great day on the bikes. Day 3 promised to bring more of the same.

dualsportrider

10-17-2007, 07:47 AM

I want to go. What was the average cost for everyone (hotels, meals, etc.)? Did you need anything other than a passport? Are motorcycle parts available in that area?:rider:

AusFletch

10-17-2007, 07:51 AM

Did any of you all use the Bicimapas GPS maps for this trip? -Fletch

Trail Boss

10-17-2007, 08:01 AM

I want to go. What was the average cost for everyone (hotels, meals, etc.)? Did you need anything other than a passport? Are motorcycle parts available in that area?:rider:

The updated rules about driving into Mexico are that a passport is not needed until 2009. You can drive into Mexico using your birth certificate (the one issued by the state, not the one from the hospital), so if you don't have a passport you don't have to spend the money on one right now.

The tourist permit cost me $23.

To take your vehicle into Mexico requires a vehicle permit. A vehicle permit costs me $43 at the Mexican Consulate in Austin. I believe that at the border it is less expensive - $27 if I recall correctly.

You probably want to get Mexican auto insurance on your vehicle since most US insurance companies don't cover you in Mexico. A policy on my Wee cost $60 for 4 days of full coverage.

The Hotel Magdelana in Galeana charges $18 per night for one person, or $28 per night for 2 people. The Best Western in Monterrey charged us $81 per night for 2 people.

I averaged about $8 total per meal (food, drink, & tip).

I think gas was about $3 per gallon but I didn't really pay close attention.

I travelled for 5 days and in total I spent about $500 for everything (tourist permit, vehicle permit, insurance, gas, food, lodging, beer, tolls, etc.).

Motorcycle parts are hard to come by. There are no motorcycle shops in most small towns. I believe you would have to travel to a major city like Monterrey to find a motorcycle shop to purchase parts and, similar to US shops, they would probably have to order any specific parts for your bike.

miltonotto

10-17-2007, 08:04 AM

Did any of you all use the Bicimapas GPS maps for this trip? -Fletch
Yes, Richard did and even I (a hard copy only map man) was impressed as we tried to deceipher the numerous choices dirt roads in the pitch black of Mexico night.

Are motorcycle parts available in that area?:rider:
Oh, that's a good one! The word is Improvise. Mexico = Land of Personal Responsiblity.

Trail Boss

10-17-2007, 08:07 AM

Did any of you all use the Bicimapas GPS maps for this trip? -Fletch

I did. I updated to the most recent version, the one that auto-routes, and used it extensively. It was very helpful and pretty darn accurate. I was glad I had it as it kept us on track on more than one occasion.

Trail Boss

10-17-2007, 08:08 AM

Yes, Richard did and even I (a hard copy only map man) was impressed as we tried to deceipher the numerous choices dirt roads in the pitch black of Mexico night.

Yes, it proved very handy that night.

Eulogite

10-17-2007, 08:50 AM

Here's a shot I like at Mesa de Oso
http://www.twtex.com/photopost/data/545/medium/Mexico2007_071.jpg

and one from the "Mexican Dragon"

http://www.twtex.com/photopost/data/545/medium/Mexico2007_055.jpg

Where was the picture taken of the KLRs at 12k ft?

My favorite moment of the trip was starting the descent from Mesa de Oso.

My least favorite was when I killed the big Strom on the way up and descended backward about 20 ft with the front wheel sliding. Luckily, I slid into a rut and stopped it. I was still sitting on it, but I had to get it started and going back up the hill again and I had a death grip on the front brake and I was almost out of breath from fighting the bike at that elevation. Pure terror, pure adrenaline. Okay, NOW that's my favorite moment.

Trail Boss

10-17-2007, 09:18 AM

Alan,

I snapped the pics of the KLRs at 12000 feet on the top of Mt. Potosi on Saturday.

thumper

10-17-2007, 10:05 AM

I did. I updated to the most recent version, the one that auto-routes, and used it extensively. It was very helpful and pretty darn accurate. I was glad I had it as it kept us on track on more than one occasion.

CeeBee had the same Bici mapset. It worked pretty good although he got us lost a few times.:rofl: One time we were on a mountain road well after dark [not intentionally]. Our paper maps said one thing and Bici said another. We found out the paper maps were right. Chuck was kinda POed...thought he was gonna toss the whole unit right off the next cliff!:lol2:

Btw, I brought my 60cs with City on it just for tracking purposes, I was surprised that it also showed every highway and the location of some pretty small towns. Between it and the paper maps I would have done just fine, but then again I was riding with "Carlos" and his fancy Bicimaps.:doh: ....:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Trail Boss

10-17-2007, 10:22 AM

Day 3

With Milton’s advice I selected a route for my group that seemed to have a lot of possibility. The first half consisted of unpaved roads and the 2nd half was nearly all paved but included some fine twisties. Milton figured we could complete the route in about 6 hours. So, at the crack of 10 a.m. my team of five (2 Wees, 1 Vee, 2 KLRs) headed out, fully expecting to be back around 4 p.m. and long before dark. As it turned out Mexico again had other plans for us.

Our ride headquarters was the Hotel Jardin. It provided basic accommodations – clean sheets, bathroom, shower with hot water, and a roof over our heads. $28 per night for 2.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00230.jpg

We headed north out of Galeana, headed to Rayones. It was only 20 miles away but ended up taking us about 1 hour and 15 minutes to get there. The road was a class 2 unpaved, very twisty road. Despite our slow pace, the road and views were as great as everything else we had been on. I couldn’t believe how wonderful the riding here was.

After a brief stop in Rayones for drinks and snacks and we were back on our way. I was starting to believe that this route might take a bit more than 6 hours, especially if the roads didn’t improve.

The next leg of our journey was to travel from Rayones to Casillas. I officially dub this section of road the Mexican Dual Sport Dragon. The first few miles were paved and I don’t recall a single straight section during the entire paved portion. I seemed to be constantly riding with the Wee leaned way over, negotiating turn after turn, all at a fairly quick pace, at least for Mexico. I thought to myself, “wow this must be what the tail of the dragon must be like”. When the pavement ended I figured we would be back on class 2 roads and our pace would drop appropriately. To my surprise the road was a class 1 road, which allowed us to maintain a pretty quick pace (about 30 mph). Again, the road was very twisty, following the terrain up, down, and all around. I thought it was fantastic. When you travel to this area you might seriously consider riding this road.

Working the curves on the way to Casillas
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00238.jpg

We enjoyed a brief stop in Casillas for some water and a snack, then got back on the road. The directions for next section were a little vague. A little ways north of Casillas there was a road not on the map that would take us over a very high pass to Mesa del Oso and on to Laguna de Sanchez. Milton told me the turn off was at Las Truncas, but I missed it. Luckily we met a truck coming in the opposite direction and they told us where the turn for the road was. Finally on the right road, we began our ascent.

This turned out to be my favorite dual sport road of the entire trip. This road was amazing. It was a class 3, very narrow (one car width only), steep, rocky, rutted road with extreme exposure. The drop-off was very steep and it was a long way to the bottom. A misstep here was not something to be taken lightly. This road required our complete attention.

The view as we began our serious climb up to Mesa de Oso
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00240.jpg

A great road
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00241.jpg

As we climbed the view got better and better. Note the road.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00243.jpg

The same road, just from a lot higher up
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00245.jpg

Some sections of this road were really steep
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00249.jpg

At one point we reached a section that was very rutted from rain. There was a several big ruts running down the road and I knew if one of us got in a rut we were going down. Unfortunately, Alan got his big V-Strom in one of the ruts and went down. Luckily, this section was not covered in rocks so neither he nor his bike were damaged.

Picking up Alan’s V
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00251.jpg

Jerry and Wee working to avoid the ruts
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00252.jpg

David’s turn to tackle the ruts
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00253.jpg

After several hours of riding we finally reached the peak, around 8000 feet and above the clouds. Mesa del Oso is a campground located up near the peak. It has cabins for rent or you can pitch your tent. You might check it out when you are in the area – www.mesadeloso.com

Up in the clouds at Mesa del Oso
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00256.jpg

One of the cabins at Mesa del Oso
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00257.jpg

Once over the peak, we entered a pine forest and began our descent to Laguna de Sanchez. The views were, of course, spectacular. For the next couple of hours we descended, eventually dropping down to about 1000 feet.

Beginning the descent from Mesa del Oso
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00262.jpg

Dave & Jerry taking a quick break on the mountain
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00265.jpg

We enjoyed a cold soda and a short break in Laguna de Sanchez
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00266.jpg

In Laguna de Sanchez we jumped on Hwy 20 (the highway we failed to reach on day 2) and rode east all the way to the town of Santiago and Hwy 85. There is a popular waterfall along this road – Cola de Caballo (Horsetail Falls) – but considering the lateness of the hour we decided to forego the hike up to the falls. Next time though.

A narrow valley along Hwy 20
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00267.jpg

A nice waterfall (not Cola de Caballo) on Hwy 20
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00269.jpg

Unfortunately, Matt went down on one of the hairpin turns on Hwy 20. His front end washed out in a left hand corner. His foot got pinned beneath the bike, damaging his heel. He was able to get up and continue the ride, but something was definitely wrong with his foot. On Saturday he decided to ride home and have a doctor check out his foot. (I spoke with him when I got back and he’s going to be okay.)

Once we reached Hwy 85 we spent the next 1 hour and 45 minutes riding pavement back to Galeana, trying to beat the sun. We didn’t make it, riding the last 45 minutes in the dark. On a twisty mountain road, of course.

At 8:30 p.m. we arrived back at the hotel. Our 6 hour trip had taken a little more than 10 hours, but what a great ride it had been. The first half of this route, the unpaved section, has to be one of the best dual sport routes in Mexico, on par with the ride down to Batopilas in Copper Canyon, but with tougher roads.

AusFletch

10-17-2007, 04:03 PM

Yes, Richard did and even I (a hard copy only map man) was impressed as we tried to deceipher the numerous choices dirt roads in the pitch black of Mexico night.

Okay, Milton, after following your travels if you found it useful then I am SOLD. I will try to purchase and download it tonight. Can you or whoever purchased advise if there are any difficulties I should look out for in the download/installation/setup process??? -Fletch

AusFletch

10-17-2007, 04:09 PM

Btw, I brought my 60cs with City on it just for tracking purposes, I was surprised that it also showed every highway and the location of some pretty small towns.

Okay, now I just have one final choice to make...should I load it on my 2610 or on my 60Csx? The 2610 is hardwired to my GS's battery and has a locking mount. The touch screen is VERY easy to use.

The 60 is only battery/cigarette lighter powered and mounts on an unlockable ram mount. It tracks MUCH better than the 2610 and can be moved to other bikes with ease. The new chip set is MUCH more sensitive, too, but it is much harder to manipulate than the touch screen.

Hmmm.... Thoughts from the crowd??? -Fletch

ps, sorry about the thread hijack...I am running out of time and have NOTHING prepared for my trip so my manners are waning.

Cagiva 549

10-17-2007, 04:44 PM

Trail Boss

10-17-2007, 07:23 PM

Day 4

After 3 long days in the saddle, the plan today was to take a short ride only, a ride of only 3-4 hours. Of course this is Mexico and none of our plans had worked out yet so why would this day be any different? Still, we were optimistic. Our destination today was to go see God’s Golf Ball.

The tallest mountain in the area is Cerro Potosi, reaching an elevation of about 12,200 feet. On top is a radar station of some type that, from a distance, looks like a teed-up golf ball. Cerro Potosi is only about 11 miles from Galeana, so I figured we could ride to the top and back in about 3 hours.

As per usual, we rolled out about 10 a.m.

The 11 mile ride to the town of Diesiocho was paved, easy, and quick. Once there we turned onto the dirt road leading up to the top of Cerro Potosi. It was 19 miles to the top and this proved to be the worst road I’ve ever ridden on. It wasn’t technically difficult to ride, but it was like riding on a washboard. It was so incredibly bumpy and rough I thought everything on my bike was going to vibrate off. I tried going both faster and slower to see if I could find a speed that would smooth things out, but it didn’t seem to matter – no matter how fast or slow I went the road just beat me to death. It took over an hour to get to the top and my hands were starting to cramp up from having to exert so much pressure on the bars just to keep control of the bike.

The upside was that the views were incredible. The higher we went the better the views.

Looking east from near the top of Cerro Potosi
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00277.jpg

The view to the south
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00279.jpg

God’s golf ball
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00280.jpg

KLRs surveying their domain
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00281.jpg

The road at the higher elevations
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00287.jpg

Galeana in the far distance
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00284.jpg

After spending 15 or so oxygen-deprived minutes up on top, I began my descent. I noted that 2 members of our party had not made it to the top so I expected to encounter them on my way down. Sure enough, 6 miles down the road I came upon Milton and Dave working on Milton’s KLX. Milton had been having intermittent difficulty with his bike for the last few days and it had decided to crap out on the side of the mountain.

Attempting roadside repairs on Milton’s KLX
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00289.jpg

They had been working on the bike for a while before I got there and work continued on it for another 2 hours after I arrived. Nothing seemed to help. Eventually, it was decided that Milton would coast the 13 miles to the bottom of the mountain, attempting to bump start the bike in the process. If that didn’t get the bike going again, then we could either tow him back to Galeana or perhaps find someone with a truck to haul the bike.

I followed Milton down the mountain and he was able to get the bike started a couple of times and ride it under power for a ways, but the bike just wouldn’t stay running. Luckily, when we reached the bottom of the mountain he was able to get the bike restarted again and rode it all the way back to Galeana. For the next several hours he continued to work on the bike, but a permanent solution remained elusive.

While the riding only took about 4 hours the bike problems delayed us for a total of about 3 hours, so we didn’t roll back into Galeana until about 5 p.m. When we got back we say that things were underway for a party.

A troupe of singers/dancers from Cuba were in town and a big show was planned for the stage in front of our hotel. The show was free and it was the only show in town, so we decided to attend. Before the show started, though, we were approached by various members of the Cuba delegation asking if we wanted to purchase Cuban cigars. How can you turn down a good Cuban cigar?

Cuban cigar, anyone?
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00298.jpg

Uncle got a picture with the lead singer before the show
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00297.jpg

The Cuban troupe
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00299.jpg

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00304.jpg

We sat up front for the show. I don’t speak good enough Spanish to know what was said, but I had a good time anyway. Like the song says, I don’t know what they said but I like the way they said it. Near the end of the show they started grabbing folks out of the audience to join in on the singing and dancing. Well, since we were sitting up front and were the only Gringos in attendance some of us were selected to show off our dancing prowess.

Hey, You, Gringo, come dance with me
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00305.jpg

Jerry dancing
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00302.jpg

Mike and Dave working their moves
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00309.jpg

Uncle joining the conga line
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00313.jpg

After about 1.5 hours of good fun the show finished. We hung out in front of the hotel for a few more hours, drank a few more beers, and then called it a night. We had a long 515 mile ride back to Austin the next day.

AusFletch

10-19-2007, 08:54 AM

For a small fee you can load Bici in two units . I am a compleat GPS and computor DA and I managed to get it loaded in my GPS . It should be a breeze to load for normal people . I did have a problum with the map load wizard but was able to straighten it out after the third call to Garmin . Dont know how everybodys else works but it appears all the POI are on the screen and all the TOPO lines too , it gets very slow in populated area when the screen is full . Also the lack of city streets in all but the major citys is kinda dissapointing . SEYA

I bought it and got it loaded. The only snafu was when I loaded the Mexico maps it wiped my US maps. I had to re-load all of them. That took 2 painful hours when I would've preferred to be playing with the new toy. I agree about the disappointment in, what appears to be, no city detail. Oh, well, I guess I wil have to spend more time in el campo. Thanks to all for their advice.

Has anyone asked about tracks from the Recon? I didn't notice any requests. We are going to hit the peripheries of y'all's ride...maybe Montereal, Galeana on down to Xilitla, Jalpan....

-Fletch

Trail Boss

10-19-2007, 09:42 AM

Final Thoughts:

This may be blasphemy but the riding in the mountains south of Monterrey, the Sierra Madre del Norte, may be better for many riders than the riding in Copper Canyon. Admittedly none of the views I saw were equal to the view of Copper Canyon from El Divisadero or the view of the road down to Batopilas. I’d argue that is the only thing Copper Canyon has over this area. I believe there are significantly more excellent class 2, scenic dual sport roads in the mountains south of Monterrey than there are in the Copper Canyon area. The terrain is such that it is easier to set up a ride base, drop most of your luggage, and do day rides than it is in the Copper Canyon region. Touring this area may be better than touring Copper Canyon because you have more road choices (not one road in & out). So, while the views are somewhat better in Copper Canyon I suggest that for those seeking class 1 & 2 dual sport roads that the riding in this area is better. The Sierra Madre del Norte is a wonderful dual sport playground.

miltonotto

10-19-2007, 12:57 PM

blasphemy

You're preachin' to the choir here, boss.

DaveC

10-19-2007, 01:27 PM

:clap: :clap: :clap:
:rider:

emm

10-19-2007, 03:52 PM

It sounds like the Mexico trip was great. I would really like to join you guys on the next trip. I'm kind of new on DS riding. Just got a KLR650 during the summer. Hope you guys plan more trips like this.

Eddie.

Jerry

10-19-2007, 04:27 PM

¡Huichole Compadres!

What an adventure. Many thanks to Richard for organizing the event - and kudos to Milton for sharing his knowledge of the area and navigational skills. Sign me up for next year!

my photos:http://s221.photobucket.com/albums/dd23/JerryPowell/

Hasta Luego,
Jerry

Tourmeister

10-19-2007, 04:28 PM

Eddie and Jerry, welcome to the site! :wave:

Trail Boss

10-19-2007, 04:31 PM

miltonotto

10-19-2007, 05:02 PM

¡Huichole Compadres!

What an adventure. Many thanks ....
A lurker emerges. Well all right now.
Good shots, Jerry.

thumper

10-19-2007, 06:09 PM

Saturday, Chuck and I decided to head out to Camarones. By viewing some of Milton's past pics, this seemed like an area that couldn't be passed up. Most of it is heavily wooded and laced with a few logging roads.

A nice Cl.II road between Inturbide and Santa Rosa
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1449.jpg

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1447.jpg

The road going to Cuevas
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1451.jpg

And our first easy water crossing of the day.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1443.jpg

Chuck checking out the slime:trust:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1436.jpg

Making his way across.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1444.jpg

Dang! He made it! What a disappointing pic!:lol2:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1446.jpg
My turn:rider:
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/030.jpg

I guess we made a wrong turn in Cuevas. This turned out good for us as it lead us on a great ride to Purisima.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1455.jpg

The further we went, the greener it got.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1434.jpg

We were unaware of our wrong turn so I was surprised to be in Purisima. We idled through town looking for the exit, when I spotted a fimiliar looking house and as we passed I saw a fimiliar man in my mirror. I turned back to greet him.
It was Sr. Ojeda and his family home. I recognized this from a few of Milton's pass pics.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1453.jpg

I said hello and mentioned Milton. He insisted that we sit with him as he drew us a crude map to Camarones. The smiles were genuine and so was the petrified look on the little girl's face. Her expression never changed.

We said goodbye and once we cleared town we were blasting back up the side of another mountain.
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/031.jpg

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1460.jpg

We were only riding at 5600', but the air was crisp and cool.:rider:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1457.jpg

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1458.jpg

The first animal I'd seen that wasn't in the road. Actually, he's tied and the owner is camping out nearby.Seems he was making some crude repairs to a washed out section of the road.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1462.jpg

We pushed on and ran across this gate...which always means a town is just over the next hill.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1466.jpg

I'm sure we left Purisima on the right road and my gps showed Camarones in the distance. Maybe Sr. Ojeda just forgot to mention this town?
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1469.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/043.jpg

I believe this was Bueno Vista or San Manuel. Wherever we were, it was some great riding.;-) We stopped a family in their truck and they were helpful to explain that we had taken a fork into this town. So all we had to do is go back out and take the other road. Sounds simple enough.

Back on track.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1470.jpg

I noticed the road was much less travelled than before. Something seemed wrong, but we pushed on anyways.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1471.jpg

A quick glance of our gps tracks showed we were definitely heading away from Camarones. Well, seems all we needed were some more directions. So we asked this burro.:lol2:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1472.jpg

He and his owner assurred us we were going to Camarones. We took a break as they disappeared down the mountain.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/044.jpg

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1473.jpg

After looking at all our info, we were sure the burro was wrong.:brainsnap We hopped back on our bikes and went looking for him. Guess they disappeared off a side road. We never saw the burro again.

It was getting late, so we decided to hightail it on a backtrack. Neither of us brought our jackets and we didn't want spend another night riding back to Galeana in the dark.

We covered everything at least twice as fast. Our first break was in a very cool area on the valley road to Santa Rosa.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1478.jpg

Very fun section!:trust: Just watch for on coming traffic in the evenings.:eek2:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1474.jpg

We made it right at dark and the magaritas went down real smooth that night!:thumb:

thumper

10-19-2007, 06:33 PM

Here's a pic of Friday...Los Pintas... another story behind this road.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1429.jpg

I'll have to wait for Chuck and his pics. My camera fried and I lost about 30 pics.:argh:

miltonotto

10-19-2007, 07:28 PM

miltonotto

10-19-2007, 07:41 PM

Here's a pic of Friday...Los Pintas another story behind this road.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1429.jpg

Oh My!:eek2: :giveup:

thumper

10-19-2007, 08:56 PM

thumper

10-19-2007, 09:04 PM

Thumper, I have no idea where you were. Maybe you did make it to Buena Vista, I wouldn't know because I haven't been there.... yet. I know if you'd headed for Camarones, you would have crossed that river again.

You and Chuck were true Rambos out there. Ya did gud.

Here is the sign you missed in Cuevas
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/210302491-M.jpg
Any questions?
Of course you can get to Purisima via Camarones too, but that's another story.

I never saw the sign:doh: Lucky for us;-)

Yeah, we were feeling pretty manly out there:lol2: But most of the times we seemed very insignificant.

Throughout this whole track....it could be done on a geared down KLR with 606's and a spirited rider.:borg:

DrBlackbird

10-19-2007, 10:56 PM

Jerry.......You compose shots well.........good pics.....I especially like the one below....Good Job
.
Except the one with that Off brand name in it (Suzuki)
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd23/JerryPowell/IMG_1163.jpg

miltonotto

10-20-2007, 12:33 AM

Milton here's my tracks. When we left Purisima we went back down to the bottom, crossed a river via an unimproved crossing, and started climbing the mountain that faced Sr. Ojeda's house. He would have seen us disappearing to his right if he had a clear view.

The sawmill and goat town is what I believe to be Bueno Vista.

Tim, I believe you were in Buena Vista. I laid down what I think was my route from Aug ontop of your Google E image. I was coming around from the other side of the mtn and gave up on reaching Buena Vista, took a short-cut straight down hill at a house and clearing. A man with a big truck lived there with family and some goats. It had a name but I never did understand it. Since I never made it to Buena Vista I don't really know how close I was.
The "town with the red & green arrows" was of course, Cuevas.
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/210380815-L.jpg

Another way to look at it
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/210391628-L.jpg

This is where I left the road to Buena Vista and headed downhill to Purisima.
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/172369225-M.jpg

A cazillion unmarked choices in logging roads up there.

mff

10-21-2007, 05:11 PM

http://twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21967

thumper

10-23-2007, 01:09 PM

Friday morning Chuck and I went over our maps with Milton. We were heading north to a pass. Milton had attempted this solo on an earlier trip and was turned back by some very rough roads. It sounded like what we were looking for.:rider:

The road to Rayones had some local traffic...maybe a pickup or two. And other than Rayones itself, that would be just about the only vehicles we came across all day.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/004.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/002.jpg

Somehow we got off track [Carlos and his Bicimaps] and we made a left where we should have gone right. Which led us on another day of some great adventuring.

The wrong road that we stayed with.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/021.jpg

"Hey Carlos this looks like fun, but I think we're going the wrong way!":lol2:

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/010.jpg

Yeah, we both were certain by now, but instead of going back we looked at the map and got even more confused by thinking "Los Pintas" was in the pass that we were trying to reach.

Oh well, that's where we're going..."Los Pintas".:sun:

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/009.jpg

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/008.jpg

to be continued....

miltonotto

10-23-2007, 05:52 PM

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Great photos.

thumper

10-23-2007, 06:46 PM

We were basically headed in a NW direction towards Cenecia de Toro in the valley and then up to Los Pintas on top.

Stopping to compare topo lines with the terrain.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/015.jpg

Carlos's WR did much better than my sputtering DRZ at higher elevations.:giveup:

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/014.jpg

Los Pintas is at about 8600' behind the mountain. The valley is around 5500'.
This cowboy rode over with his dogs following. I think he's was curious as to what we were doing there.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/011.jpg

Gringo sign language seemed to just add to his curiosity.:lol2:

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/012.jpg

We said "Los Pintas" and he said "se". When he told us how to get there...well you know how it goes.

We rode into the small town of Cenecia de Toro and asked [as best we could] a guy at the store where the road to Los Pintas was. He kinda told us and we had a pretty good idea, but as we were leaving he said more than once, " Los Pintas...no motos!"

I never heard anyone say a town could outlaw motos. Chuck and I both said, "screw it, we'll deal with that when we get there".

We rode on and found the road, then started the climb.:trust:

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/019.jpg

The road was passable, but in pretty bad shape. It appeared to get little use.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/020.jpg

Things got a little tough near the summit, but aside from some sputtering from my DRZ, we were having a blast.

We were kinda surprised to run across this abandoned ranch on the way up.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1426.jpg

Other than some cattle and a few wild horses, no one had been there in quite awhile. We rode back and forth trying to pick up the road again. We opened a gate thinking we were back on track...dead end!:eek2:

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1428.jpg

Finally, Chuck hollered "hey, this is Los Pintas!" It showed up on his Bicimaps.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1424.jpg

Yup, Los Pintas is an abandoned ranch at 8600'. So now that's figured out, where's the road?

We milled around and finally found it. After less than a mile, it looked like this.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1429.jpg

We really wanted to get through because it was a short decent down to Casillas. About 30 yards behind this pic is the first major obstacle, a fallen tree.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1431.jpg

It was 5:00pm and starting to cool off. We had to make some decisions. We checked out a few cow trails thinking we might get lucky and bypass the road...not happening!:doh:

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1433.jpg

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c151/tmshw/HPIM1432.jpg

So, next choice...camp and tackle the road in the morning or ride out on a backtrack? We both had enough water but Chuck only had some power bars and I had nothing to eat. I joked about killing a cow and cooking some steak.

We hadn't eaten since breakfast so back down we went. It was almost dark when we saw the guy at the store again. I told him "Hey Los Pintas, no people!"...he said "se, no gente, no motos". Oh well, it seemed like a perfect place for motos.;-)

Off in the dark, we made our way back. It was around 10:30pm when we rolled up to the hotel. And I will say this..." it's been awhile since I was actually glad to get off my bike.":lol2:

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f209/cpbtx72/Mexico%2007/024.jpg

miltonotto

10-23-2007, 11:37 PM

Good work. U guys r crazy. The pictures are worth a thousand words.

Trail Boss

10-24-2007, 05:58 AM

Great ride report guys!

Chango

10-24-2007, 10:57 AM

Yeah, Great report and pics too !!!!! You guys must've been three or four hours riding at night . Just be lucky a Chupacabra didnt get you or Chuck.

James ,
Sealy Tx. / Bucharest Romania

thumper

10-24-2007, 12:24 PM

Yeah, Great report and pics too !!!!! You guys must've been three or four hours riding at night . Just be lucky a Chupacabra didnt get you or Chuck.

James ,
Sealy Tx. / Bucharest Romania

Yeah, luckily all we ran into were dogs. I had the better light and leading. So it was just a matter of zipping by them and let Chuck deal with the onslaught!:lol2:

Great trip Richard!:clap: I got just enough of Mexico to be even more prepared for the next trip.

Somethings I need to do or remember;

Learn more Spanish.
Keep smiling.
Always ride with minimal camp gear and food.
It really is "the land of personal responsibility".
Never ask for "fajitas" in Mexico. It means belt or belts.
Always have enough pesos to pay off the cops when your caught speeding!:eek2: [ Happened to me out side of Monterrey while driving back]

miltonotto

10-24-2007, 12:50 PM

Those mtns around Purisima are begging to be expored more thourghly.

thumper

10-24-2007, 01:05 PM

Those mtns around Purisima are begging to be expored more thourghly.

Yes, they are. That was my favorite area. Next time I'll tent overnight...no more backtracking just because it's getting dark.;-)

TerraXpeditions

11-02-2007, 04:26 PM

Great reports guys! I've got a small group heading that way in March. Looks like a great place to visit so close to home. I've got to get the Bicimaps though. Thanks for the great photos, and the extra pull making me want to go.

TexasShadow

11-03-2007, 07:40 AM

Is a KLR250-Sherpa allowed to ride with the big boys on one of these trips?

thumper

11-03-2007, 08:30 AM

Is a KLR250-Sherpa allowed to ride with the big boys on one of these trips?

The Sherpa would do great on a ride like this. Although you might want a bigger tank if your following Carlos with his Bicimaps!!:rofl: Just kidding Chuck...hmmm...No I'm not!:rofl:

TexasShadow

11-03-2007, 08:35 AM

The Sherpa would do great on a ride like this. Allow you might want a bigger tank if your following Carlos with his Bicimaps!!:rofl: Just kidding Chuck...hmmm...No I'm not!:rofl: I'm investigating increasing the fuel capacity on the Sherpa and as of last night, I think I found the solution :trust: I'll be testing it out on trails in southern Utah before next year's Mexico trip, but........count me in for the next Mountain Recon trip! (woohoo!)

spidennis

11-03-2007, 03:02 PM

ok, I'm drooling to do this ride ..... gotta get my "stuff" together to be ready for this! I live down at south padre so I can just about do this trip at anytime. Had you guys ever thought about using the ferry at Los Ebanos to cross into mexico (and back)? I've never been on it either ...... but want to! I've only got a WR250F so I'd think about trailering my bike down vs riding, and in this way I'd have a support vehicle, just in case another bike had troubles (as I read about here). Now if I can just get my property taxes out of the way so I can get on with important stuff ... outfitting my bike!

http://www.texasescapes.com/TOWNS/Los_Ebanos/Los_Ebanos_Texas.htm

http://www.dot.state.tx.us/services/maintenance/ferries/los_ebanos.htm

http://hometown.aol.com/blueapache5/page2.html

spidennis

11-03-2007, 03:06 PM

Los Ebanos ferry

TerraXpeditions

11-03-2007, 03:11 PM

Hey SPI, can you officially cross there to go into Mexico? I guess what Im asking is are there the checkpoints to do the paperwor, or can you do that elsewhere?

Glad you pointed that out, and I am sending you a PM...

Trail Boss

11-03-2007, 05:24 PM

Is a KLR250-Sherpa allowed to ride with the big boys on one of these trips?

Absolutely.

I'd even go so far as to say you could get by with the stock gas tank, though a larger tank or some spare fuel is a fine idea. Milton has ridden his KLX all over the place down there on multiple trips and I think it gets about the same mileage out of a tank of gas as the Sherpa (we were stopping every 100 miles so he could tank up).

TexasShadow

11-04-2007, 10:05 AM

I'd even go so far as to say you could get by with the stock gas tank, though a larger tank or some spare fuel is a fine idea. . Thanks, Richard!
Actually, Friday night I looked over the fuel-carry system a local friend has on his KLR650 and I intend to rig up a similar system for the Sherpa. It would increase fuel capacity even more than the IMS tank for the KLR250's. I will need it for the Trans-America Trail, so the Mexico trip will be a good trial run overall for the Sherpa.

Swapeti

11-05-2007, 09:07 PM

Enjoyed this great ride report. I'll be making my second trip down there in a few weeks. Last year we barely touched the surface so now we have a list of places that we can include on this trip.

TerraXpeditions

11-05-2007, 09:17 PM

Hey guys, I was wondering what was needed to be paid for BEFORE leaving to go down there and what could be paid for at the border.

I understand insurance needs to be paid before. But what else?
And, what can be paid at the border and what will we have to pay at the border. Is this website up to date as of now?Mexico Vehicle Permits (http://www.mexadventure.com/MexicoTravel/Mexico-Vehicle-Permit.cfm)

Thanks for the help
Scott

miltonotto

11-05-2007, 09:27 PM

website looks ok but i've never had luck with them/it. It was a tease last I tried it a couple of years ago. You can "do" the car papers before the border if you are near a mexican consulate that offers that service, (Austin, Houston), but it ain't necessary. You must buy your tourist "card" at the border ($25?). Temp Import of car is $32?. You can buy insurance at the border too. You need to have a credit card too.

TerraXpeditions

11-05-2007, 09:30 PM

miltonotto

11-05-2007, 09:54 PM

TerraXpeditions

11-05-2007, 09:59 PM

Sounds like you need to go. Just do it.

Just south of Monterrey is a town called Santiago or Villa Santiago. Its 20min south of Mty. It has a nice ($100/night) hotel right on the square, cable and AC and all. Nice place to start if you're just poking around getting the feel of it. They don't advertise parking, but they have secure parking down in a basement sort of place, under the hotel.

Alternately find your way to Rayones and check into the $25/night ($35?) hotel. Concrete floor, metal door, bars on the windows, crucifix on the wall, no cable (or TV) but hot water (on request), sounds like jail but feels like heaven. Hang out in quiet laid back quaint clean Rayones. Explore around Rayones.

I'm organizing a trip of other interested riders that have never been before... limiting to five bikes.. and already got 4 confirmed. I think the lack of knowing the area will make it cool for everyone... if not it will be an adventure. I'm taking the role of leader, so I am doing all the research for everyone....;-)

The hotel in Rayones... how many rooms? Could fit 5 folks and bikes?

miltonotto

11-05-2007, 10:11 PM

The hotel in Rayones... how many rooms? Could fit 5 folks and bikes?
Actually two hotels in Rayones. Plenty of room and accustomed to motorcyclists. Hotel Santa Maria and Hotel Victor. They are about the same, Victor is newer but poor Victor is a bit of an amateur at hoteling. Sr Laurencio at the Santa Maria is the original and does a pretty fair job.

thumper

11-07-2007, 11:05 PM

Enjoyed this great ride report. I'll be making my second trip down there in a few weeks. Last year we barely touched the surface so now we have a list of places that we can include on this trip.

So would that mean there'll be a trip report?:trust:

Swapeti

11-08-2007, 09:36 PM

So would that mean there'll be a trip report?:trust:

Maybe. I did one on last years trip on KTMtalk.

http://ktmtalk.com/index.php?showtopic=196589&hl=

I just noticed some guy named "Mighty Mouse" stole one of my Monterrey pics for his av.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey/MonterreyMexicoMoto06063.jpg

MIGHTYMOUSE

11-16-2007, 01:56 AM

I have a few more pics I "stole" from you Captain. Hope you guys are having fun down there without me this weekend. Make sure you send me a cd with some more pics so I'll know what I missed.

TexasShadow

11-16-2007, 05:01 AM

I have a few more pics I "stole" from you Captain. Hope you guys are having fun down there without me this weekend. Make sure you send me a cd with some more pics so I'll know what I missed.Wow, where is that in your avatar??

miltonotto

11-16-2007, 05:12 AM

That is San Isidro canyon, aka La Boca on at least one map, but no one calls it that. It is on the Cola de Caballo road, 30-40 min past Cola de Caballo. Concrete road here, sometimes washed out by rains.

San Isidro Canyon
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/72562802-M.jpg

miltonotto

11-16-2007, 05:14 AM

I have never seen it captured on film better than Swapeti's photo. Excellente.

Trail Boss

11-16-2007, 06:28 AM

That is a fine photo of that canyon. Mine certainly didn't come out nearly as good.

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/rgibbens/The%20Mountain%20Recon%202007/DSC00268.jpg

miltonotto

11-16-2007, 07:10 AM

Entrance to San Isidro canyon from Cola de Caballo
http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/151894777-M.jpg

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/151893299-M.jpg

TexasShadow

11-16-2007, 07:51 AM

That is San Isidro canyon, aka La Boca on at least one map, but no one calls it that. It is on the Cola de Caballo road, 30-40 min past Cola de Caballo. I'm smitten. I want to go there. Really.

TexasShadow

11-16-2007, 08:17 AM

Is this area between MX-85 and -57, west of Santiago? (yes, I'm looking at google maps...... )

miltonotto

11-16-2007, 12:50 PM

I don't know about Google maps but from Santiago, a couple of 100 yds south on Hwy 85 is Cercado. Here the "Cola de Caballo" road leads west off of Hwy 85 up into the mtns. Cola de Caballo is a waterfall very near Cercado (and Santiago) but probably not marked on many maps. Google up Cola de Caballo Hotel. Next major town is Cienega de _?__ (Gonzalez or Garcia?) and then a few miles down is the community of San Juan Bautista, where the road makes a sharp left hand turn, its a 90 degree turn to the south (to the left). San Isidro canyon is a short but spectacular stretch between this turn and the next road junction, which leads off to Los Lirios, to the west, and Laguna de Sanchez, to the south. Asphalt to Los Lirios (near Hwy 57) and to Laguna de Sanchez (end of the asphalt, but only the beginning of a neat ride).

Yes, it is between Hwy 85 & 57.

Cagiva 549

11-16-2007, 04:51 PM

According to BICI Map it is Mexico HI 20 . When I rode it in 1989 it was a two track with trees to cross the creeks . Still an awsome ride . SEYA

miltonotto

11-16-2007, 06:34 PM

http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/29623759-M.jpg http://trailblazer.smugmug.com/photos/29623766-M.jpg

This one is still the best

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey/MonterreyMexicoMoto06063.jpg

TexasShadow

11-16-2007, 10:18 PM

You're torturing me. I want to go there.

TexasShadow

11-16-2007, 10:21 PM

Yes, it is between Hwy 85 & 57.I'll try and find it on Google Earth this weekend (when I have time).
It'll haunt me, though.......

Thanks for the description. I'll see what I can come up with.

Cagiva 549

11-17-2007, 07:56 AM

Its easy to find on Google , very crooked road , if you follow 85 south east from Monterey, 20 intersects south of Santiago in a southwesterly direction . It crosses over a mountian to Cienega De Gonzales at the head of Huastaca Canyon then to San Juan Bautista where it turns into the canyon Google doesn't do justice for the area . My first trip thru there I was stopping every 100 yards to take pictures , the other guys were getting tired of waiting on me . I couldnt help it . SEYA

Cagiva 549

11-17-2007, 08:04 AM

Just south of the 20 intersection on 85 there is a mountian they call dead mans mountian , the top of the ridge to the west of the highway is a perfect silhouette of a man laying on his back with his hands accross his chest . SEYA

miltonotto

11-17-2007, 11:05 AM

Isn't that like near Montemorelos? I have a photo that was purchased in Montemorelos but it's framed and not an easy scan.

Swapeti

11-24-2007, 02:49 PM

[QUOTE]
After several hours of riding we came upon Cosme, herding his goats. He lived in the canyon, many hours of travel from the nearest town. We stopped to visit and he told us there was no way to get through south, that the road was completely impassible. I was reluctant to believe him, knowing that if it was true we would have to backtrack for hours because there was no other way out of here. We discussed it and decided to continue up the road to see for ourselves. Perhaps Cosme was underestimating what the bikes were capable of doing.

A short distance later we encountered two guys on 4-wheelers riding north. They had been riding south ahead of us and were forced to turn back because the road was impassible. Reluctantly, we abandoned our attempt to make it south to Hwy 20, turned around and began the long journey back.

[QUOTE]

Got back from my trip Wednesday and read the Recon report again to see if I could add anything useful. The first day we travelled the route described as impassable. It is definitely not impassable, at least not for our group of old guys on 450 KTM's. We were going downstream from La Cienega and just past the waterfall area the rocks make the going somewhat difficult but definitely not impassible in either direction,,,at least on KTM or similar bike.
Here is a shot of Roger walking his bike through the loose rocks near the end of the bad part.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df083.jpg

Before this was the now dry falls area.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df078.jpg

We also noticed something halfway up the side of this canyon wall.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df080.jpg

Can't believe someone could actually climb up that but the ropes to do it were visible along with this cot about halfway up. Maybe they need to take a siesta before they climb on. Scary just to look at.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df079.jpg

We turned and took the El Pajonal route toward Los Cedritos.
At La Placeta we stopped and talked to a goat herder. Plata Silver was the name I heard but,,,,,. Usually Ronnie and Alejos talk with anyone around asking about trails and what's up ahead. It turns out that Plata was related to our friends Antonio and Toya over by El Alamo.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df108.jpg

From Los Cedritos we head toward Antonio's but climb a logging road up to a place we can see into the next valley to the south. I think the visible towns would be La Baratilla and Rancho Alegre.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df119.jpg

This is Antonio and Toya. The group that invited us last year Arnie, Ronnie and Alejos made friends with them years before and visit them every trip they make. Usually they bring some food supplies and gifts. Last year Antonio had a large herd of goats that provided whatever they needed. About six months ago Antonio had a stroke and had to sell his goats. Now he intends to make a living from his fruit trees.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df122.jpg

He tells Ronnie and Alejos about locations of roads and trails in the area. Last year they gave us some of their cheese. This year they loaded us up with sacks of dried apples.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p187/drfogle/Monterrey%2007/Mexico112007df138.jpg

We continued up the valley past El Manzano and back to where we started at La Cienega. About a 90 mile loop.

miltonotto

11-26-2007, 04:10 PM

The first day we travelled the route described as impassable. It is definitely not impassable, at least not for our group of old guys on 450 KTM's. We were going downstream from La Cienega and just past the waterfall area the rocks make the going somewhat difficult but definitely not impassible in either direction,,,at least on KTM or similar bike.

Kudo's for old guys on 450 KTM's.

maxrates

12-19-2007, 05:11 PM

Did the Wees keep up with the KLRs OK ????

That looks like a great trip. The pics are great too. I would love to join you some day.

Thanks
Doug

Trail Boss

12-19-2007, 05:50 PM

Doug,

We rode class 1, 2, & 3 non-paved roads (Motorcycle Non-Paved Road Rating System (http://www.texasadventure.net/Motorcycle%20Non-Paved%20Road%20Rating%20System.htm)) during this trip. The Wee handled the class 1 & 2 non-paved roads with no problems and was able to run with the KLRs. On the class 3 non-paved roads, the Wee was a handful and at its limit. It could do it, but it was pretty tough work. The KLRs didn't run off and leave the Wee on the class 3 roads, but they could have. Plus a KLR is easier to ride on a class 3 than a Wee so it isn't as much work.

In short, if I'm know I'm going to be riding a bunch of class 3 non-paved roads, I'm going to ride my KLR. If class 2 is as tough as it gets, the Wee gets the nod.

There is an abundance of class 1, 2, & 3 roads all over the place down there, so no matter what dual sport / adventure bike a rider has there is plenty of adventure to be had.

Mark you calender - we are doing it again next year. MexTrek, Oct 22 - 25, 2008, Galeana, Mexico.

Mike in Clear Lake

12-19-2007, 08:17 PM

Wow! Another great Mexico ride. Thanks for bumping this up. I would have missed it :thumb:

Mike

Chango

12-19-2007, 08:44 PM

Doug , It was an adventure . Legend has it Wee Stroms held their on with
the KLR's .

James in Sealy

Richard , Calendar is marked !!!!!!!

Jbay

01-02-2008, 10:12 PM

there were no XR650Ls being ridden on this trip :shrug:

Trail Boss

01-03-2008, 06:37 AM

there were no XR650Ls being ridden on this trip :shrug:

You could fix that at the '08 ride...

Mike in Clear Lake

01-03-2008, 08:14 AM

Please comment on how your bike engines performed at those altitudes. Challenges?

Thanks,

Mike

Chango

01-03-2008, 08:40 AM

Mike , I encountered no problems with my old R80GS. And the other bikes i dont believe had any probs.

James in Sealy

Mike in Clear Lake

01-03-2008, 10:29 AM

Thanks Chango.

Do you know how the bikes now handle this internally (assuming fuel injection) with regards to lean/rich and with regards to ignition timing for altitude changes?

Chango

01-03-2008, 12:12 PM

Well, i once saw a v strom in Mexico descend from altitude to a very area very quick ... it appeared to take a while to compensate. Ran like it was on "choke ".

golfinaggie

01-07-2008, 10:44 AM

Hey guys, Would there be any interest in renting a house for ya'll's trip. I own a property probably about 15 miles south of Galeana right off the main highway. It's right before you get to the town of Pablillo. It sits on about 200 acres that I own. Let me know if there is any interest for this. Thanks

Jerry

01-07-2008, 11:34 AM

Mike in Clear Lake

01-07-2008, 01:24 PM

V-Stroms and Wee-Stroms compensate instantaneously for whatever altitude they are at. Mine ran perfectly at sea level, and perfectly at 12,280 ft. Never misses a beat, runs great on any gas you can find, and takes no time to "adjust" - it just runs perfect - period.

Thanks Jerry. Do you know the specific technology they are employing? I take it they have a mapping algorithm for the jetting (or EFI equivalent), are they doing anything with the BTDC settings?

TexasShadow

01-07-2008, 02:48 PM

V-Stroms and Wee-Stroms compensate instantaneously for whatever altitude they are at. Mine ran perfectly at sea level, and perfectly at 12,280 ft. Never misses a beat, runs great on any gas you can find, and takes no time to "adjust" - it just runs perfect - period. However, (there's always a caveat it seems....) not all Wee's seem to adjust so effortlessly or efficiently. Mine (an '06) did not. It bogged down like it had emphysema at 10K feet and higher. Sixth gear was not an option at that altitude; no power. *cough, cough* The Wee does not have an O2 sensor. (or at least the '06's don't)

Dealer assured me "Nothing wrong with the mapping". *shrug*

Mike in Clear Lake

01-07-2008, 06:26 PM

...Dealer assured me "Nothing wrong with the mapping". *shrug*

It's The Great mapping Left-wing Conspiracy, designed to neuter all males so that future generations of men will not even know how to fix a flat tire! :mrgreen:

Here's what used to be done in the old days http://www.performanceindian.com/Timing.html

Of course this was back when young boys were taught by their fathers how to run a timing light on a car or a motorcycle. Now old farts who even bring up this subject are called liars :giveup: And the ability to set the timing has been taken away from us. Neuterville, here I come! :lol:

Eulogite

01-25-2008, 08:56 PM

Trail Boss

01-25-2008, 09:30 PM

And one big Strom made it, too...

And impressed the heck out of me, too. I knew you were working hard on the big Strom, cause I was working hard on the little Strom.

To tell the truth, though, I'd do it again...

TexasShadow

01-26-2008, 08:45 AM

Mark you calender - we are doing it again next year. MexTrek, Oct 22 - 25, 2008, Galeana, Mexico. *raising hand, jumping*
Can an old Desert Rat on a 250 go, too?
David and Hardy going?

Trail Boss

01-26-2008, 08:59 AM

*raising hand, jumping*
Can an old Desert Rat on a 250 go, too?

Not only can you go, I think it's mandatory for the Desert Rats to be there. I heard something about revoking membership for those who don't attend...

Seriously though, I hope you can make it. Your Sherpa would be great for this ride.

Eulogite

01-26-2008, 10:26 AM

And impressed the heck out of me, too. I knew you were working hard on the big Strom, cause I was working hard on the little Strom.

To tell the truth, though, I'd do it again...

I'm probably destined to do it again in October! This time I'm leaving the hammers, torque wrenches, pry bars, socket sets, air compressors, and kitchen sinks in the hotel room. Every 100 lbs helps when the grade hits double digits.

Only two moments I don't want to repeat: 1)picking the bike up (with help, thanks guys) and getting it going again on the steep, rutted pitch and 2)sliding backwards after I killed the engine on a similar grade. What is it they say about toothpicks, sledgehammers and certain orifices?

TerraXpeditions

01-26-2008, 10:42 AM

Only two moments I don't want to repeat: 1)picking the bike up (with help, thanks guys) and getting it going again on the steep, rutted pitch and 2)sliding backwards after I killed the engine on a similar grade. What is it they say about toothpicks, sledgehammers and certain orifices?

I dont know, what do they say?:trust:

Hey guys,
I will be going through this area in May and riding around for a few days before I head south to Panama. If anyone wants to join me, I'd be glad to have some tag-a-longs.

Chris Mitchell

01-26-2008, 01:48 PM

Was wondering how well your tires held out during this trip. Did you all start out on fresh tires and what brand seemed to do the best? Any mechanical issues with the bikes and especially at high altitude? A carburated engine was likely wheezing at anything over 10k high. I have read this thread pretty far in so far and I am sitting here thinking seriously of selling the FJR and finding a good reliable dual/sport, at 59 years old my fast street riding days are numbered I think, eyes and reaction times need to be very good for safe street riding these days. I started out my almost 50 year career of motorcylce riding on dirt bikes and racing, seems like it would be more fun than dodging huge SUV' driven my psyco mom's with phones grafted to their ears and blinders on their eyes. Way back in the 60's around Austin there were lots of places to ride in the dirt and no one would get up tight about it. This gives me something to think about, thanks for the great read too.

Trail Boss

01-26-2008, 02:48 PM

Chris,

I run the TKC80 on the front of my Wee. I like having a knobby tire up front when in the dirt. I run a Metzler Tourance on the back. Overall, it is a great combination for the type of riding I do.

Dave was running Gripsters on the front and back of his KLR. The Gripster is about about a 70/30 street/dirt dual sport tire. He told me they did fine for him.

A group of us rode up to 12000 feet. The carburated KLRs seemed to do fine - at least I didn't see any of them struggling with the climb and none of the riders mentioned any problems. My fuel injected Wee handled the altitude with no problems.

The dirt side is calling you, Jedi Chris. Once you venture down the dirt side, forever will you be consumed by it. :trust:

TexasShadow

01-27-2008, 07:56 AM

TexasShadow

04-06-2008, 10:10 AM

Not only can you go, I think it's mandatory for the Desert Rats to be there. I heard something about revoking membership for those who don't attend...

Seriously though, I hope you can make it. Your Sherpa would be great for this ride.As of now, I'm in. "Events" have canceled most of my other trips for this year......
I'll have plenty of time to prepare. Gotta lotta questions for you and Rogg.
I think I know another Desert Rat on a 250 that is itching to go, too.

Ixta

04-06-2008, 11:46 AM

Noticed the reference to the caves in Bustamante. Bustamante is located down old highway 1 between the Colombia crossing (north of Laredo - which is THE place to cross due to the lack of traffic). There is a hotel on the square in Bustamante called the Ancira. It is "it'll do" quality, the restaurant is pretty good, and you can drive around back and up into the courtyard for secure parking.

Bustamante and the Ancira are quaint, quiet little places.

Riding down only highway 1 (two lane) avoids the slab tollroads and eventually intersects the toll loop around Monterey.

The caves in Bustamante are best done off trail, with proper caving gear, and with someone who's been there before.

Tama's Tigre

04-27-2008, 11:01 PM

Count me in for this year... I'll even do the translating :clap:

TexasShadow

04-28-2008, 11:37 AM

Count me in for this year... I'll even do the translating :clap: We'll enjoy your company even if you forget your Spanish :mrgreen:
BTW, no wild fowl hunting this time unless it's for dinner, okay TurkeySlayer?

bikeforever

05-07-2008, 09:20 PM

First Post, long time luker.
I put down for some vacation time.
Would sure like to do this ride with you guys.
Went to Creel last October :eat: ready to go back to Mexico.

Tourmeister

05-08-2008, 01:21 AM

Welcome out of lurk mode :wave:

Greasemonkey

05-08-2008, 08:58 AM

From the response from cee-bee and thumper ,I need to go this year.

Is this still a recon or has it progressed.Kinda like like the wondering unkown
personally.

Trail Boss

05-08-2008, 12:33 PM

Scott,

Now that the recon is done I call this event MexTrek. I am planning to organize it along the same lines as TAR (base out of one town, meet up the first evening of the event, ride/explore for 2 days, then head home) and publish a ride guide and provide maps.

Greasemonkey

05-08-2008, 02:58 PM

Thankyou sir,sounds fantastic.

Appreciate all the work and opportunity to go.

jagster

12-18-2008, 07:50 AM

TerraXpeditions

12-18-2008, 07:54 AM

Nice thread and pictures, makes me lust :). I have a 08 crf230f honda bike and I am making it street legal. Was wondering if it would be too small for a trip like this. It goes kinda slow top speed maybe 70 wide open for roads and kinda shakes; basically not good for pavement high speed but great for offroad of course, real light bike and everything small displacement and great milage. Would this work for a future trip like this you all did in Mexico? I definately plan to do the big bend trip maybe in february.

Thanks

If you have a range of more than 100 miles, I hear you should be good... or carry more fuel. Have a couple folks go ride with you doing 60 on the way out there..... or you might get randdover. Drive to Galeana maybe?

I'm going con dos companeros de viaje, en once dias! Once dias!

Trail Boss

12-18-2008, 08:23 AM

jagster,

Your CRF230L will be fine for about 90% of the riding around Galeana. Certainly it will be great on all the dirt roads and okay on the minimal amount (10%) of pavement on some of the routes.

The only real issue I foreseee is getting to Galeana. There is a minimum of 150 miles of highway travel and as much as 250 miles of highway travel from the border to Galeana, depending on which crossing you choose. That's a long way on a slow bike, especially if you are riding with others on bigger, faster bikes not inclined to ride at the more sedate pace of the 230L. I'd suggest trailering your bike all the way to Galeana.

The only other issue might be the range of your gas tank. Terra is right - 100 mile range is probably okay. It's relatively easy to strap a small gallon can on to your bike, which would pretty much solve the issue.

spidennis

12-18-2008, 10:06 AM

Nice thread and pictures, makes me lust :). I have a 08 crf230f honda bike and I am making it street legal. Was wondering if it would be too small for a trip like this. It goes kinda slow top speed maybe 70 wide open for roads and kinda shakes; basically not good for pavement high speed but great for offroad of course, real light bike and everything small displacement and great milage. Would this work for a future trip like this you all did in Mexico? I definately plan to do the big bend trip maybe in february.

Thanks

I'm gonna trailer down my tx street legal wr250f .....
btw, my neighbor just got herself a crf230L,
she's a new rider, so I teaching her to ride in the dirt first.
we took off all the breakable stuff ...
and she's adding a skid plate and barkbusters.
when she gets her motorcycle license we'll put back the blinkies ...

xcaliber

12-18-2008, 05:16 PM

These threads are killing me! My VTX is cowering in the garage, afraid that I may trade her for a DS.

jagster

12-18-2008, 09:42 PM

Haha, well yes I would take it in my truck (or maybe my old beat up car with trailer) down to that town, to go from there. I always hear the crazy stories of cops in Mexico being bad but I'm not sure how much of it is fact or fiction :). Sounds really fun though.

230L's are nice spidennis but I wanted the dirtbike features and just make it street legal. Without the goofy emissions tube thingy on it and suspension chnages, among others. I wonder if it has a better lighting coil though?

Trail Boss

12-19-2008, 06:38 AM

These threads are killing me! My VTX is cowering in the garage, afraid that I may trade her for a DS.

Motorcycle Jedi: "Xclaiber, Obi Wan Dirtrider never told you what happened to your dual sport bike."

Xcaliber: "He told me enough. He told me you killed it."

Motorcycle Jedi: "No, Xcaliber, I have your dual sport bike."

Xcaliber: "Noooooooooo..... That's not true"

Motorcycle Jedi: "Search your feelings, Xcaliber. You know it's true. Join me on the Dirty Side. It is your destiny. Together we can bring an end to this destructive conflict in your soul, trade your VTX for a KLR, and rule the dual sport universe as Dual Sport 1 and Dual Sport 2."

xcaliber

12-19-2008, 07:09 AM

Motorcycle Jedi: "Xclaiber, Obi Wan Dirtrider never told you what happened to your dual sport bike."

Xcaliber: "He told me enough. He told me you killed it."

Motorcycle Jedi: "No, Xcaliber, I have your dual sport bike."

Xcaliber: "Noooooooooo..... That's not true"

Motorcycle Jedi: "Search your feelings, Xcaliber. You know it's true. Join me on the Dirty Side. It is your destiny. Together we can bring an end to this destructive conflict in your soul, trade your VTX for a KLR, and rule the dual sport universe as Dual Sport 1 and Dual Sport 2."
That's FUNNY ...........and a little scary :rofl:

miltonotto

12-19-2008, 08:56 AM

Off hand, I'd say
Looks like you've got too much free time, Ricardo. :-P

miltonotto

12-19-2008, 09:11 AM

I always hear the crazy stories of cops in Mexico being bad but I'm not sure how much of it is fact or fiction :). Sounds really fun though.

Police are super polite and friendly, coming up and saying something like, “Oh, excuse me. How are you? Could you please move your motorcycles? You can put them over here.” They wear combat boots, military style camouflage pants with black T-shirt, cap, walkie-talkies. They ride around in pickup trucks. Hotel Guzman, $25/night, we get separate rooms. When we ask about safety of the bikes, people look at us uncomprehending. Almost insulted we could suggest crime. Here? At 11:30 pm all stores are closed but groups of benign 16 yr olds roam the empty streets, hang at the park. Their safety assured by hardwired code of ethics. And pickup trucks full of police. Less menacing here than anywhere in the states.

Question: How is it that we Americans, who live in cities of gangs, drive by shootings, drug abuse, pedophiles, crime and fear, assume that these tiny places in Mexico would be the same??? Here family values prevail. At least so it seems here in Xilitla.
_________from ...mjo, 3/11/2006 (http://miltonotto.typepad.com/archives/2006/03/xilitla.html)

Sheriff

12-19-2008, 05:14 PM

Wow I spent the last hour reading the entire thread.To say I am envious would not do justice to what I am feeling.The ride reports and the pictures are stupendous.I dont own a dual sport but after reading this I am gonna look for one.I have traveled a few times to mexico when I was much younger.I always had a great time and the people were warm and friendly.Just the kind of genuine hospitality that makes you want to come back again and again.Add to that the beautiful natural scenery and wilderness make this a truly great adventure.I think I'll be looking for a KLR;-) I have not done any off road or trail riding since I was 15 years old.So this would be a great experience for me.Many years ago I lived in AZ so i know the terrain out west is...the best.I need to get back real soon.Thanks to all for sharing your adventures here.I truly enjoyed reading it.:mrgreen: :thumb:

Sheriff

12-19-2008, 05:16 PM

...mjo, 3/11/2006[/B] (http://miltonotto.typepad.com/archives/2006/03/xilitla.html)
How refreshing :sun:

Mike in Clear Lake

12-19-2008, 05:55 PM

Police are super polite and friendly, coming up and saying something like, “Oh, excuse me. How are you? Could you please move your motorcycles? You can put them over here.” They wear combat boots, military style camouflage pants with black T-shirt, cap, walkie-talkies. They ride around in pickup trucks. Hotel Guzman, $25/night, we get separate rooms. When we ask about safety of the bikes, people look at us uncomprehending. Almost insulted we could suggest crime. Here? At 11:30 pm all stores are closed but groups of benign 16 yr olds roam the empty streets, hang at the park. Their safety assured by hardwired code of ethics. And pickup trucks full of police. Less menacing here than anywhere in the states.

Question: How is it that we Americans, who live in cities of gangs, drive by shootings, drug abuse, pedophiles, crime and fear, assume that these tiny places in Mexico would be the same??? Here family values prevail. At least so it seems here in Xilitla.
_________from ...mjo, 3/11/2006 (http://miltonotto.typepad.com/archives/2006/03/xilitla.html)

Milton,

That was a most excellent post. You are on my list of folks to meet up with, along with a few others here on TWT.

I was having a discussion the other day with someone about violence in Mexico regarding narco-trafficking. My bent is that both sides of any mathematical equation must balance. The narcotics violence in Mexico (and Latin America) is met by the narcotics violence we have here in the US. Supply equals demand. 50% of the illegal narcotics supplied to the world are consumed right here in the US. Our voracious appetite for illegal drugs is only met by our appetites for excessive debt and excessive food. We have been engaged in a debt, food, and drug orgy since the late 60's, yet we wish to criticize others. Amazing.

Like most of you better educated MEX riders here, you know what the real story is when touring down there, and what the real facts are. This is what makes TWT a pleasure for me.

Mike

miltonotto

12-19-2008, 06:33 PM

I post at ADVrider.com as Pedro Navaja
And I am "Trailblazer", if you didn't know. Look forward to meeting you. I spent a little time in Guatemala in 1978, most of the year, hanging out in "Pana", mostly. (Now I can say been there, done that.)

Mike in Clear Lake

12-19-2008, 06:40 PM

And I am "Trailblazer", if you didn't know...

Of course I know!

miltonotto

12-20-2008, 02:47 AM

Of course I know! :):):):):):):):)

Chango

12-22-2008, 06:52 AM

MEEEEEEL Tone , excellent post !!! You are a literary genious.:rider:

miltonotto

12-22-2008, 07:24 AM

MEEEEEEL Tone , excellent post !!! You are a literary genious.:rider:
:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Pinklloyd

12-26-2008, 12:43 PM

All right...all right...all right!

If compliments are flying.

Meeltone, you're a great photographer too!

Pink

Pinklloyd

01-03-2009, 10:47 AM

Go for it guys!

Safety in Mexico is a very common concern for so many Americans for quite some time. I have never had a very bad experience in Mexico in the last 30 years of travel there for both business and pleasure. Off course, there have been some transitos to whom I had to give "their bite". I was speeding (well who would not be when the speed limit is 30KPH). I did make an illegal UTurn trying to get to the soccer field (But afterward got a police motorcycle escort straight to the field, with the cop stopping traffic for us to make illegal left turns). Then that one time years ago when I completely forgot about a certain insect in the ashtray at a military checkpoint. These and many more events in my Mexico travels all were very cheap. $5-$10 and some patient conversation time resolved the "problema". Talking is very important to Mexicans. They live for the human interaction. They want you to bargain with them in the marketplace whether for a small trinket or expensive one. Whether it be a small traffic infraction or a more serious one. If you don't spend the time negotiating they will think of you as a fool.

During the major devaluation of 1982, with the subsequent nationalization of the banking system, I had no choice but to carry hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash on collection trips to the southern border of Mexico and Baja.
Not a problem. At that time, I barely spoke Spanish. I agree with Meeltone.
Mexico is just Mexico. The system works great for Mexico. It will never change. I don't think most Mexicans throughout the socioeconmic strata even use the terms "liberal" or "conservative". Most probably never even heard the words, except in terms of proper nouns. ie political party names.
I don't think they lack education not knowing those words. Actually, I think their mandatory education system, up to "Secundaria" (13 years), puts out a person with better reading and math skills than high school here. And some of those "Secundarias" use a television as the teacher.

There are words that Mexicans do use "tradition", "family", and off course
"God".

Several years ago I found an excellent book that was so fun to read. Some friends and I spent many evenings reading out loud to each other on our Mexico trips, accompanied by the national beverage. I guarantee that anyone with interest will absolutely love this book. "NTC's Dictionary of Mexican Cultural Code Words" by Boye Lafayette de Mente. Buy it!

Pinklloyd

gahboo

01-03-2009, 02:17 PM

I have ridden Mexico numerous times. Slept on the ground. People are wonderful. Those that fear MX probably have never spent much time there.

I am not going to get into all the L-word and C-word stuff, because most who throw those words around do not even know their true meanings. But I do have a question - forgive if it was posted in the body of the thread. I did not read it all.

Here it goes, and it is really important...

Is there a GPS track log available?

Trail Boss

01-03-2009, 06:31 PM

Is there a GPS track log available?

Sort of.

I wrote a 48 page dual sport ride guide for that area that has 12 different recommended routes with directions, ratings, notes, etc for each route. The guide also comes with 3 topo maps of the area and gps routes for each of the 12 routes. The guide, topo maps, and gps routes go out to all riders who register for MexTrek (the mountain recon is now a yearly event called MexTrek). It is available for $25 for those who can't attend MexTrek.

Trail Boss

01-03-2009, 08:58 PM

Folks,

This is a ride report and is for discussion pertinent to this ride.

Please take other discussions - such as political discussion - to an appropriate thread.

Thanks,

gahboo

01-04-2009, 06:06 AM

So, If I register for the upcoming ride and add $25 for this info pack, you can hook me up with both? Including what GPS files you have?

That would be great, because I tend to like my DRZ 250 for DS stuff, and lotsa riders find it too slow for the road parts of stuff. So I find myself going with another buddy with a small bike instead of joining big groups where I just slow folks down a lot. The F650GS is great on long distance stuff, but those pictures of the ruts that ate the Strom would have been no fun on the BMW. But it woulda been the buzz for the DRZ.

Guess you can't have it all.

Trail Boss

01-04-2009, 07:26 AM

gahboo,

PM sent.

Also, if you are interested and haven't seen it here is the 2008 ride report for the same event - MexTrek 2008 (http://twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33656)

jagster

01-05-2009, 10:11 PM

I have heard recently on radio, though, that the violence is drug related problems and police corruption has become a big problem. The government is trying to regain control its supposedly pretty bad. It may have been OK in past but I don't know now!

miltonotto

01-06-2009, 02:02 PM

It may have been OK in past but I don't know now!
Don't go then. End of story.

I'll admit, the reports I've read recently scare me too. But everytime I go down there all the fear is all so distant. Our media does a tremedous job at hype.

On the other hand, who wants to be kidnapped? I'd hate to be the one who talked you into going and then something bad happened. Which is the inherent risk of a ride like this. Don't think I haven't pondered the subject.

And again... (Speaking of kidnapping), how is it that Glen H., the Viking guy, is still living in Mexico, by choice, if it were so bad? Huh?

Anyway, I'll still be down there next chance I get. March? Sooner?

Pinklloyd

01-06-2009, 04:21 PM

Another thought on the violence in Mexico.

I am aware of 2 kidnappings of persons I know on the Mexican side of the border in 2008.

The first case occurred sometime in March. The son of a customer of mine was kidnapped and held until settlement was reached (approx $20k). It seems that the parents had been mistaken for not paying the normal business expenses. In border mercantile businesss, the most lucrative merchandise is the illegal merchandise. Drugs going North, Guns, and in this case used clothing going south. Apparently there was a clerical error and even though the boys parents were in the system (yes, the Mafia uses portable computers with wireless internet), ie paying "the man", Junior was apprehended. Once he was in custody, some payment had to be arranged.
The original ransom was $40K.

The second case was the owner of a casa de cambio (money exchange house) in Matamoros. I just discovered yesterday that his businesses are now closed because he was kidnapped 2 weeks ago. This one will cost alot more (they are asking for a $1M). I expect some settlement will be reached eventually.

None of these cases will reach the media or officially the police.
You see these are not random occurances. The organization knows who they want and how much they might get. An American riding a motorcycle, although enviable in lifestyle, is still an American. He or she probable doesn't have $20-30K in cash, forget a million. That's a waste of time for the mafia.

Whenever you leave stateside there are no guarantees. My nephew was kidnapped in India for a week during 2007. Google "scams in India" and you will see what happened to him. He was living in Asia for 3 years already. He was not wet the behind the ear. It just happened.

Keep a low profile, try not to get drunk in public, and avoid any contact with those who might be involved in illegal drugs. Beware of the frigates flying around those plazas. Before long, someone might approach you (lets face it, we are Americans) and offer drugs,etc...Turn and shut that door. The only thing entering your life will be increased risk.

Pinklloyd