Let's Ride to MexTrek 2008 together [Archive]

Richard_

08-04-2008, 08:26 PM

Are you looking for someone to ride to Galeana with for MexTrek 2008? If so, you are in the right place. This is the thread for riders to organize into groups riding to Galeana together. Reply with the group you want to hook up with and I'll add you to the list. If you would like to volunteer to be the ride leader for the group you are in, let me know.

McAllen to Galeana - link up in McAllen
- Dave Bell & buddy, crossing at McAllen around noon on Wednesday

- Richard and Dirtbike Dave, crossing at McAllen Wednesday morning, staying at Motel 6 McAllen on Tuesday evening
- Rick M & Big A, crossing at McAllen Wednesday morning
- PharrSide, crossing at McAllen Wed morning
- Wasabi (Bill) riding with Rich and Dirtbike Dave
- Stingray (Scott), crossing at McAllen Wed morning
- six50rider, crossing at McAllen Wed morning, riding to Galeana

Laredo to Galeana - link up in Laredo
- Outlaw6Guy, crossing Wed morning

- Chango & friends, crossing in Laredo on Monday morning
-

Austin to McAllen - leaving from Austin Tuesday afternoon/evening
- Richard_, Dirtbike Dave, and Uncle trailering to McAllen Tuesday evening
- Stingray (Scott) trailering to McAllen Tuesday evening
-

Houston to Galeana
- Dave Bell, jinbody, & dirtrideroader, leaving Houston Wed morning 5 a.m.
-
-

Dallas to Galeana - leaving DFW Tuesday afternoon/evening
-
-
-

Chango

08-05-2008, 06:09 AM

I will probably cross Monday morning. Gonna sightsee check out some areas . But do plan on being in Galeana Wed. afternoon.

Dave Bell

08-05-2008, 06:17 AM

Meeting another guy in Houston, driving his truck to McAllen Wed; crossing and riding to Galeana Wednesday afternoon. I believe we would be happy to meet other riders in McAllen Wednesday noon or shortly after.

DB.

Pancho

08-05-2008, 08:37 AM

The border crossing in Laredo is actually "safer" than McAllen .....in my opoinion.....both are good. You would be exposed to less traffic using the Laredo crossing. The ADUANA is right across the bridge, then look for the exit towards Monterrey via the airport...signs are obvious. This way you avoid the city traffic. Both Reynosa and Nuevo Laredo have improved procedures and routing.

The easiest but not obvious crossing is at Falcon Dam-Nuevo Guerreo. No traffic, but a little slow.

I am very familiar with all the border crossings. Each has its own pros/cons depending mostly on timing and size of people in your group.

Pancho
McAllen, TX
MSF/RiderCoach, Riders Edge/Instructor, Personal Guide - Mexico
96 BMW R1100RS
99 BMW R1100GS
01 Honda XR400R

Chango

08-05-2008, 09:29 AM

Last year we crossed at Roma/Miguel Aleman and cut across bypassing Monterrey completly . The two laner down was in HORRIBLE shape.
I will opt. for Laredo as well.

Pancho

08-05-2008, 10:11 AM

Ditto on Hwy 54 south of Mier! Observations were about crossings not roads - not so obvious. I was just over it late May. Construction has improved about 25 mi south of Cerralvo. There is a bypass towards Caderreyta that will skip Monterrey. It is just before Dr Gonzales. You go through Caderreyta on to Allende then your back on Hwy85 and on to Linares.

Pancho

Pancho

08-05-2008, 10:15 AM

There are many, many options to get to Galeana. I still have not decided mine. All depend on kind of ride, which bike, timing, weather and traffic.

Outlaw6Guy

08-05-2008, 10:29 AM

Is anyone driving their vehicle from Laredo to Galena? I'd like to take my truck and haul my bike down,but would like to caravan with a couple of people. I've never driven in Mexico,and would feel a lot safer with a group. Anyone?

Richard_

08-05-2008, 12:20 PM

Richard_

08-05-2008, 12:22 PM

Last year we crossed at Roma/Miguel Aleman and cut across bypassing Monterrey completly . The two laner down was in HORRIBLE shape.
I will opt. for Laredo as well.

Do you want me to add you to the Laredo link up list?

Outlaw6Guy

08-05-2008, 12:27 PM

Outlaw,

I put you on the Laredo to Galeana list above. That okay?

Sure,no problem. Now all I need to do is get signed up........right? I am working it,wid da boss ya know?

Richard_

08-05-2008, 12:48 PM

Sure,no problem. Now all I need to do is get signed up........right? I am working it,wid da boss ya know?

Yes, I understand. Hopefully da boss will understand too...

WoodButcher

08-05-2008, 01:15 PM

So Richard, what are your plans? Are you riding down early like you did last time?

kow650rider

08-05-2008, 01:38 PM

Tell me more about this ride. Sounds like alot fun. johnny

WoodButcher

08-05-2008, 01:39 PM

Tell me more about this ride. Sounds like alot fun. johnny

http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27799

Dirtrideroader

08-05-2008, 01:55 PM

Each has its own pros/cons depending mostly on timing and size of people in your group.

So if the people in your group are large, what is the best place to cross?

Richard_

08-05-2008, 03:27 PM

So if the people in your group are large, what is the best place to cross?

At a BIG bridge. :-P

Richard_

08-05-2008, 03:38 PM

So Richard, what are your plans? Are you riding down early like you did last time?

Dirtbike Dave and I are trailering to McAllen on Tuesday after work. We are going to ride from there to Galeana on Wednesday. I'm expecting to get in a little fun riding on Wednesday but, unlike last year, I won't be arriving at 11 p.m. after 15 hours of riding and the last 3 being in the dark on a narrow mountain road with a steep cliff on one side and a long drop off on the other. (I'm saving that type of riding for Thursday. :mrgreen: )

I've got a 3 bike trailer. I've offered the 3rd spot to Uncle, but he hasn't committed yet. So, it might be open.

Anyone who wants to convoy from Austin to McAllen with us is welcome.

All are welcome to ride to Galeana with Dave & I on Wednesday. Expect to ride some class 1 and 2 that day.

Dirtrideroader

08-05-2008, 03:57 PM

I just sent my money in. Have not thought about the logistics yet. I am thinking of hauling the bike to the border just to make the knobbies last longer. And to make my butt happier. I have this seat on order, but my "build date" is not until December.

http://bj.smugmug.com/photos/338841926_5vRfc-L.jpg

Richard_

08-05-2008, 04:03 PM

Improved seat or not, I'd be pleased to ride that 690e for you down in Mexico.

http://bj.smugmug.com/photos/338841926_5vRfc-L.jpg[/QUOTE]

Pancho

08-05-2008, 04:28 PM

Either Nuevo Laredo or Reynosa, both have the capacity to process paperwork quicker.

Dirtrideroader

08-05-2008, 04:54 PM

I could let your ride it, but I would have to mount the passenger pegs and get one of those shirts that says "If you can read this, then the ***** fell off".

Ixta

08-05-2008, 04:56 PM

If coming from north, west or central Texas, one might want to consider crossing at the Colombia bridge. It is NW of Laredo and is connected to I-35 via the Camino Colombia road. If you have never crossed here and don't like the hassle of the major crossings, you'll likely have a completely different experience at the Colombia-Solidarity crossing.

It would be out of the way for you guys in Houston.

The crossing is huge, state of the art, and is rarely crowded since it's in the middle of nowhere (it's that little "neck" of land where the state of Nuevo Leon state touches Texas).

The downside is that the crossing is not open 24 hours. Last time I checked, they were open 8AM to 11PM weekdays and even smaller windows on weekends. Check with them on the way down if you are planning on crossing back on Sunday. THis might save backtracking to crowded Laredo.

From this crossing, there's an easy connection to the east to the Monterrey toll road or a very quick connection west to old Highway 1. Old highway 1 runs all the way to the Monterrey toll loop.

The toll roads to the south of Monterrey are a piece of cake to follow. This is a fast and idiot-proof route to the western side of the Sierra Madre Orientals. However, it is super slab.

PharrSide

08-05-2008, 05:15 PM

I would like to leave with a group Wednesday morning if I don't find anyone leaving a day or so earlier or decide to go earlier by myself.

Chango

08-05-2008, 06:18 PM

Is there an Aduana for visas and Vehicle permits there?

Regards, Chango

[QUOTE=Ixta;460962]If coming from north, west or central Texas, one might want to consider crossing at the Colombia bridge. It is NW of Laredo and is connected to I-35 via the Camino Colombia road.

Chango

08-05-2008, 06:21 PM

Richard , put me down for N. Laredo - Galeana crossing early Monday with documents in hand and permit on the bike. There might be two or three of us so far.

If coming from north, west or central Texas, one might want to consider crossing at the Colombia bridge. It is NW of Laredo and is connected to I-35 via the Camino Colombia road. If you have never crossed here and don't like the hassle of the major crossings, you'll likely have a completely different experience at the Colombia-Solidarity crossing.

It would be out of the way for you guys in Houston.

The crossing is huge, state of the art, and is rarely crowded since it's in the middle of nowhere (it's that little "neck" of land where the state of Nuevo Leon state touches Texas).

The downside is that the crossing is not open 24 hours. Last time I checked, they were open 8AM to 11PM weekdays and even smaller windows on weekends. Check with them on the way down if you are planning on crossing back on Sunday. THis might save backtracking to crowded Laredo.

From this crossing, there's an easy connection to the east to the Monterrey toll road or a very quick connection west to old Highway 1. Old highway 1 runs all the way to the Monterrey toll loop.

The toll roads to the south of Monterrey are a piece of cake to follow. This is a fast and idiot-proof route to the western side of the Sierra Madre Orientals. However, it is super slab.

Chango

08-05-2008, 06:22 PM

Correction be crossing in town.

Richard_

08-05-2008, 06:30 PM

Is there an Aduana for visas and Vehicle permits there?

Yes, there is. My group got tourist permits there last year and I think one of the guys in my group got a vehicle permit there too.

oscar zerrweck

08-05-2008, 06:48 PM

check the route by eagle pass tx , piedras negras sabinas , monclova , saltillo 57 road iam sorry for my bad inglish ,, befor you get saltillo you go streigth ahed to los lirios before monterreal and you get to laguna de sanchez from the 57 to laguna de sanchez is about 60 km. and from there to cola del caballo about 20 kilometers you can go by paved road "la carretera nacional "the one from monterrey to tampico ,alot of big trucks or by umpaved the one fron laguna de sanchez to galena very escenic i live at monclova just make know befor yo come and we can have some beers and bbq at eagle pass theres is two bridge and is a very good road my phone number is 8661070108 y my email zerrweck@hotmail.com when is the trip maybe can go

Ixta

08-05-2008, 08:37 PM

[QUOTE=Chango;461019]Is there an Aduana for visas and Vehicle permits there?

Regards, Chango

Oh, yes. The Colombia-Solidarity crossing is a huge, full-service crossing (when they are open). After hassling with paperwork at Reynosa and downtown Nuevo Laredo, Colombia is refreshingly unreal.

Once you've gone through the paperwork process there, you'll be spoiled.

Regards,

Joel in San Antonio.

Richard_

08-05-2008, 08:52 PM

...when is the trip maybe can go

Hi, Oscar.

MexTrek is Oct 22-25, 2008 in Galeana.

Here is more information - MexTrek 2008 (http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27799)

Sign up here - MexTrek 2008 Registration info (http://www.texasadventure.net/Mextrek/MexTrek%20Home.htm)

I hope you can make it.

RICK M

08-05-2008, 09:50 PM

Richard,
Big A and I would like to hook up with you and Dirtbike Dave . We also are trailering down to the border and then riding in .
Rick M

Richard_

08-05-2008, 10:00 PM

Richard,
Big A and I would like to hook up with you and Dirtbike Dave . We also are trailering down to the border and then riding in .
Rick M

Sounds good. I added you to the list.

Vinny

08-05-2008, 11:29 PM

Dirtbike Dave and I are trailering to McAllen on Tuesday after work. We are going to ride from there to Galeana on Wednesday. I'm expecting to get in a little fun riding on Wednesday but, unlike last year, I won't be arriving at 11 p.m. after 15 hours of riding and the last 3 being in the dark on a narrow mountain road with a steep cliff on one side and a long drop off on the other. (I'm saving that type of riding for Thursday. :mrgreen: )

I've got a 3 bike trailer. I've offered the 3rd spot to Uncle, but he hasn't committed yet. So, it might be open.

Anyone who wants to convoy from Austin to McAllen with us is welcome.

All are welcome to ride to Galeana with Dave & I on Wednesday. Expect to ride some class 1 and 2 that day.

Hi Richard,
Thank you very much for putting so much work into our fun week:clap:
The maps and guide are great !!
Question: Why riding the extra 100 miles to Mcallen vs Laredo. Do you know something we dont?

Richard_

08-06-2008, 06:34 AM

Vinny,

Last year on our way to Galeana, my group crossed at Columbia (good crossing) and then went through Monterrey. The traffic was horrible in Monterrey and I decided that it would be faster to bypass Monterrey, even if the alternate route is a bit longer.

On our trip back last year, we rode north on the west side of the mountains, taking the toll road skirting Saltillo and then Monterrey and crossing back into Texas at Laredo. That was a much better route, traffic wise. If you are traveling from Austin to Galeana, want to make the trip in 1 day, that is the route I recommend as I believe it is the fastest route because it bypasses the traffic in Monterrey. Milton is convinced it is THE fastest route between Galeana and Austin. This route is 500 miles.

I'm choosing to go through McAllen this year for a couple of reasons. First, I could be wrong, but I don't think it is 100 miles further to go Austin - McAllen - Galeana than it is to go Austin - Laredo - toll roads around the west of Monterrey, then the east side of Saltillo - Galeana. I think the McAllen route is only 15-20 miles further. Second, I don't think it is as far from McAllen to Galeana as it is from Laredo to Galeana. I think McAllen - Galeana is shorter than Laredo-Galeana via the toll route. I'm pre-positioning myself by trailering to the border Tuesday evening and going to McAllen minimizes the maddening slab/traffic time on Wednesday. Of course, this is assuming that the roads from McAllen over to Galeana aren't under construction or have some other time-killing, traffic snarling obstacle on them.

Edit: Using mapsource I plotted the routes/distances from south Austin:
Austin - Laredo - Galeana via toll roads around Monterrey and Saltillo = 505 miles
Austin - McAllen - Galeana = 511 miles

jinbody

08-06-2008, 07:12 AM

Planning on leaving far Northwest Houston around 5:00am Wednesday, trucking or trailering the bikes (depending on how many go- Dave Bell committed and I've been talking to a couple others in Houston) down to Donna, near McAllen, then crossing the border in McAllen around 1:00-2:00pm. Returning at first light Sunday.

PharrSide

08-06-2008, 11:08 AM

Those of you planning to cross at McAllen will actually be crossing at Hidalgo which is only a few miles down HWY 281 from where I live in Pharr. I would like to hook up with anyone crossing there Wednesday morning or earlier. I noticed my earlier post was not specific enough to get me on any list so thought I needed to clear that up. Thanks.

Richard_

08-06-2008, 11:58 AM

PharrSide,

I've added you to the Mcallen crossing list.

benpbdy

08-17-2008, 09:29 PM

Will be pulling two bikes in Wed.Will go in at Laredo are McAllen.If Laredo will cross in Tuesday and leave early Wed.morning for Galeana.Not sure but it looks like about 5 hours?Did a wire transfer for room in Galeana for four days.

Dirtrideroader

08-20-2008, 04:42 PM

Wasabi

09-04-2008, 05:06 PM

All are welcome to ride to Galeana with Dave & I on Wednesday. Expect to ride some class 1 and 2 that day.

Richard I would like to join your gruop on Wednesday.

Bill

Richard_

09-04-2008, 05:34 PM

Richard I would like to join your group on Wednesday.

Bill

Bill,

Great. See you in McAllen.

cotton

09-06-2008, 07:18 PM

Ruidoso Ron

09-16-2008, 11:37 AM

Planning to cross at Colombia on Tuesday morning. Anybody know of a safe place to leave car and trailer nearby?

Chango

09-16-2008, 12:01 PM

Planning to cross at Colombia on Tuesday morning. Anybody know of a safe place to leave car and trailer nearby?
Richard past thru there last year. he might know.

If not here is some info. with phone#'s.

Bridge III
Colombia Solidarity Bridge
Non-Commercial & Commercial
FM 3464 at FM 1472
ph.(956) 417-5800
ph.(956) 729-2060
fax:(956) 417-5801
Non-Commercial Traffic
8 a.m. - 12 a.m.
7 days a week
Office Hours
8 a.m. - 12 a.m. Mon - Fri
8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sat. & Sun.
Commercial Hours
9 am. - 12 am. Mon - Fri
10 am. - 4 pm Saturday
12 pm. - 4 pm Sunday
Method of Payment
Cash, Prepaid & Commercial
& Non-Commercial A.V.I.
Commercial Parking Lot 7 days a week
8 am to 12 am
$15 a day

Ruidoso Ron

09-16-2008, 12:33 PM

Thanks Chango!

Ruidoso Ron

09-16-2008, 12:58 PM

I called the bridge office, and they indicated that the city operates a secure parking lot there. The rate is $15/day, and that will include my small trailer.

Richard_

09-16-2008, 01:03 PM

Ron,

I don't know of any secure parking at the Columbia crossing, but I have worked out secure parking in Laredo.

Secure Trailer Lots
$75 for 5 days or $20 per day
877-819-9526

Secure trailer lots provides a fenced/guarded compound for 18 wheeler trailers and have agreed to let riders park vehicles/trailers at their facility in Laredo for the special rate of $75 for 5 days. Anyone who wants to do this needs to call in advance to make a reservation and pay the fee in advance.

The reason I did this is because the Laredo airport only has open parking - no fees, but no fence, guards, etc.

Richard_

09-16-2008, 08:17 PM

Riders,

I will be staying at the Motel 6 in McAllen on Tuesday evening and then again on Saturday evening.

Motel 6 Mcallen #212
700 W Expressway 83
US 83 at 2nd st
Mcallen, TX, 78501
Phone: (956) 687-3700 | Fax: (956) 630-3180
Reservation Phone: 1-800-466-8356

TerraXpeditions

09-16-2008, 09:32 PM

Anyone trailering from Dallas or Houston with trailer space for an XR650L?

I will help with Gas.

Otherwise, I'll swap tires and think twice about riding that friggan far on my XR650L.... AGAIN!

six50rider

09-16-2008, 11:30 PM

Put me down for trailering down to McAllen from Austin on Tuesday Evening to meet up at Motel 6.

If anyone wants to consolidate before leaving Austin PM me, I'll need to mount a wheel chock ahead of time. I'll be leaving the CRV and trailer at the Airport and riding out to Galeana.

Richard_

09-17-2008, 08:39 AM

Richard,
I plan to ride with you and the group from McAllen on Wed. Will arrive in the area on Tues night from florida. I plan to leave my truck and trailer at the McAllen airport. As of now I will be driveing in by myself so I will need to meet you somewhere on Wed Morning. Any Ideas on Motels in the Mc Allen area??? If you wish it would be usefull if I had your Cell phone #.
Cotton Morlock Cell 904-333-1072

Cotton and anyone else that wants to meet up in McAllen on Wednesday morning,

I'm staying at the Motel 6 in McAllen on Tuesday night. I expect to arrive around midnight.

My cell number is 512-203-6143.

For anyone who wants to link up with my group on Wednesday morning, let's meet at 9 a.m. in the Motel 6 parking lot, tanks full of gas, and ready to ride.

I'll probably eat breakfast at a local restaurant prior to our link up. If anyone wants to link up for breakfast, let's meet in the Motel 6 parking lot at 7:30 a.m.

If possible, get your tourist and vehicle import paperwork done before 9 a.m. on Wednesday morning (I'm going to try and get my paperwork done at midnight on Tuesday when I arrive.). If we all have our paperwork done prior to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, then we should be able to cross the border pretty quickly, with only a stop to exchange money.

I'm planning on making a fun day of the ride. We will slab from McAllen - Reynosa - Hwy 40 west to General Bravo - Hwy 35 southwest through China to Montemorelos - Hwy 85 north to Hwy 2 - Here's where the fun begins, Hwy 2 southwest to Rayones - north & west from Rayones on dirt to Cienaga - South from Cienaga on dirt through Mimbres - Deiciocho - Galeana (time permiting, of course. If we run into any unexpected adventure along the way that eats up our time, then we will modify the route as necessary so we arrive in Galeana prior to dark. In the spirit of full disclosure, I said that last year and we ended up riding the DS dragon for 3 hours in the dark and didn't arrive in Galeana until 10 p.m. :-P But, this year I swear I'm a reformed man. Honest. )

ghostrider1964

09-17-2008, 11:09 AM

So If I was to take off on this, What does it take to get me and the bike across he border? I do not have a passport.:giveup:

Jerry

09-17-2008, 01:53 PM

- Here's where the fun begins, Hwy 2 southwest to Rayones - north & west from Rayones on dirt to Cienaga - South from Cienaga on dirt through Mimbres - Deiciocho - Galeana (time permiting, of course. If we run into any ...unexpected adventure...

You know... this could be a real intresting ride in the daylight. I've wondered over the past year what was out there - in that dark black abyss on the right side of the road. Let's go find out!

Reservations made. TKC-80's mounted. See y'all in McAllen! :rider:

Richard_

09-17-2008, 04:12 PM

So If I was to take off on this, What does it take to get me and the bike across he border? I do not have a passport.:giveup:

Previously, the US Gov said a passport would be required in 2008. However, the most recent info I've received is that the passport requirement has been delayed until further notice.

If this is true, then it means you do not need a passport to attend MexTrek this year. You can use a certified copy of your birth certificate (the certificate issued by the State, not by the hospital) to get yourself into and out of Mexico.

To get your bike across the border you need: the registration or title for your bike, your drivers license, and a credit card (or $500 cash to post as a bond). The registration or title (whichever one you are using) must perfectly match your drivers license (exact same name & address).

stingray

09-18-2008, 08:30 PM

I've never driven down to McAllen. What's the best route once south of San Antonio? Interstate 37 to US 281 all the way to McAllen?

PharrSide

09-18-2008, 09:06 PM

I've never driven down to McAllen. What's the best route once south of San Antonio? Interstate 37 to US 281 all the way to McAllen?

I'll just jump in here since I live down here and have made that trip hundreds of times. The "best" way is 37 past the 281 exit and take the 59 exit. Get on 281 in George west. Just disregard the 281 exit which takes you through Three Rivers and George West. That doesn't sound like much difference but it saves about 30 minutes. Dale

stingray

09-18-2008, 10:07 PM

Cool deal, thanks!

Richard_

09-19-2008, 07:56 AM

Riders,

My buddy Dirtbike Dave has a reserved room with a double bed at the Motel 6 in McAllen on Tuesday night and on Saturday night. He is looking for someone to share the room with. If you want to save some money and don't mind a roommate, please PM Dave or post up here.

skup

09-20-2008, 12:12 AM

ghostrider1964

09-20-2008, 06:24 AM

So say I pay this $500 bond, how soon we get it back once we get back? Is this bond posted with Mexican govt....kindy scary considering my pass experiences with their corruption:eek2:

Richard_

09-20-2008, 07:51 AM

skup,

It's still open. I'll let Dave know.

Richard_

09-20-2008, 07:55 AM

So say I pay this $500 bond, how soon we get it back once we get back? Is this bond posted with Mexican govt....kindy scary considering my pass experiences with their corruption:eek2:

If you pay with cash, you will get the money back when you check out of Mexico. At least that's my understanding. I've never paid with cash so I can only go by what I've heard.

I use a credit card to post the bond and, as I recall, the $ is put back on the card when you check the bike out of Mexico.

skup

09-20-2008, 10:07 AM

So say I pay this $500 bond, how soon we get it back once we get back? Is this bond posted with Mexican govt....kindy scary considering my pass experiences with their corruption:eek2:

I would not worry. You have folks crossing the border fairly regularly. My concern was more if I had to cancel at the last minute since you can only get the refund at the border. I guess I would have to ride down just to get my refund.:rider:

skup

09-20-2008, 10:12 AM

If you pay with cash, you will get the money back when you check out of Mexico. At least that's my understanding. I've never paid with cash so I can only go by what I've heard.

I use a credit card to post the bond and, as I recall, the $ is put back on the card when you check the bike out of Mexico.

In some ways I think it's better to just do the paper work at the border that way you get charged on your credit card when you cross in and get the refund a few days later when you cross out. That's why you probably did not notice the charge since the two transactions canceled fairly quickly. Since I did mine early at the Consulate the charge actuall goes through and shows up as being paid. Not a big deal.

skup

09-20-2008, 10:14 AM

skup,

It's still open. I'll let Dave know.

Thanks I would have sent him an e-mail but could not find any of his threads.

Chango

09-20-2008, 01:25 PM

I am still planning on crossing at Laredo Monday morning . Spending the night near Cola de Caballo and from Laguna de Sanchez
its to Galeana via Mesa de Oso route . A very challenging Class 1 & 2.
I have room on my trailer for another bike .

Richard_

09-20-2008, 01:56 PM

skup,

I spoke with Dave this morning and the spot is filled. A buddy of his spoke up for it last night.

Vinny

09-21-2008, 04:34 PM

Chango,
If I dont go rock climbing (weather, etc) on Tuesday I would like to join you on this. I'll be going on Monday also.
Vinny

I am still planning on crossing at Laredo Monday morning . Spending the night near Cola de Caballo and from Laguna de Sanchez
its to Galeana via Mesa de Oso route . A very challenging Class 1 & 2.
I have room on my trailer for another bike .

Chango

09-21-2008, 09:03 PM

Lets go :rider

Chango,
If I dont go rock climbing (weather, etc) on Tuesday I would like to join you on this. I'll be going on Monday also.
Vinny

BigDogAdventures

09-28-2008, 06:21 PM

This thread has caught my attention as I bet it has others------as I've tired of the copper canyon area and I said awhile back I'd not go back to Mexico till I found something else that interested me. Sounds like some great riding :rider:

Thanks for all the good info !!

I'm not saying I'll be at the rally yet----but I'm thinkin' about it--I don't work much anymore, but I'm on this overtime job right now that may run on passed the rally time :mrgreen:

Anyway---I just joined up here---thanks again !!!
http://bigdogadventures.com/images/TID/010%20TID.jpg

Richard_

09-28-2008, 08:30 PM

Welcome, Big Dog. Or, since we are discussing a Mexican adventure, I should instead call you El Perro Grande.

Hope you can join us in Galeana.

kennyanc

09-28-2008, 10:42 PM

Pancho

09-29-2008, 07:24 AM

I am leaving NC on Saturday, the 18th and plan to cross the border on Mon. or Tuesday. At least myself and maybe 2-4 others from my group will be crossing at the Los Ebanos Ferry crossing. Anybody here done that crossing or plan to on the way? Wanna hook up there?

It's the only hand-drawn ferry left on the border of the U.S. and MX.

Kenny

You probably already know...there is no Banjercito to do documentation at the Los Ebanos crossing. If all permits are done, That will be an excellent start for an adventure ride. I've used it many times. Enjoy!

Chango

09-29-2008, 08:25 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PxT-t_sndw&feature=related :rider:

Jerry

09-29-2008, 09:56 AM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PxT-t_sndw&feature=related :rider:

Thanks for the vid Chango! That was great. I would like to travel to Mazatlan just to get a photo of the statue of Pedro Infante on his motorcycle by the sea. Pedro is truly the finest Mexican singer/actor ever. Now, I have to go watch it again...

terlingua

09-29-2008, 01:56 PM

Richard, were is the motel 6 in McAllen?

Bruce

Richard_

09-29-2008, 03:48 PM

Motel 6 Mcallen #212
700 W Expressway 83
US 83 at 2nd st
Mcallen, TX, 78501
Phone: (956) 687-3700 | Fax: (956) 630-3180
Reservation Phone: 1-800-466-8356

My cell number is 512-203-6143.

For anyone who wants to link up with my group on Wednesday morning, let's meet at 9 a.m. in the Motel 6 parking lot, tanks full of gas, and ready to ride.

I'll probably eat breakfast at a local restaurant prior to our link up. If anyone wants to link up for breakfast, let's meet in the Motel 6 parking lot at 7:30 a.m.

If possible, get your tourist and vehicle import paperwork done before 9 a.m. on Wednesday morning (I'm going to try and get my paperwork done at midnight on Tuesday when I arrive.). If we all have our paperwork done prior to 9 a.m. on Wednesday, then we should be able to cross the border pretty quickly, with only a stop to exchange money.

I'm planning on making a fun day of the ride. We will slab from McAllen - Reynosa - Hwy 40 west to General Bravo - Hwy 35 southwest through China to Montemorelos - Hwy 85 north to Hwy 2 - Here's where the fun begins, Hwy 2 southwest to Rayones - north & west from Rayones on dirt to Cienaga - South from Cienaga on dirt through Mimbres - Deiciocho - Galeana (time permiting, of course. If we run into any unexpected adventure along the way that eats up our time, then we will modify the route as necessary so we arrive in Galeana prior to dark. In the spirit of full disclosure, I said that last year and we ended up riding the DS dragon for 3 hours in the dark and didn't arrive in Galeana until 10 p.m. :-P But, this year I swear I'm a reformed man. Honest. )

stingray

09-29-2008, 07:17 PM

with only a stop to exchange money.

Is it better to have cash in hand when stopping to exchange money or can it be done with a credit/check card?

Richard_

09-29-2008, 08:09 PM

Is it better to have cash in hand when stopping to exchange money or can it be done with a credit/check card?

I've not tried to do it with a credit card. I've always exchanged cash and will be doing so again this year. At the border there are usually lots of places to change US currency into Pesos (and vice versa).

You can use your debit card at an ATM to get pesos. I haven't run across ATMs everywhere in Mexico like in the US. You can find one at a bank, but there aren't banks on every corner, like in the US.

kennyanc

09-29-2008, 08:42 PM

You probably already know...there is no Banjercito to do documentation at the Los Ebanos crossing. If all permits are done, That will be an excellent start for an adventure ride. I've used it many times. Enjoy!

Yeah, our plan it to converge on Laredo from several locations and Canada and store our trucks there. We will get our paperwork done there that evening then ride south the next morning to cross at Los Ebanos.

One of our guys has to cancel a permit for his truck else we would all just do them online. Best I have been able to determine, we could get a tourist visa at Los Ebanos but not a vehicle permit. Can anyone confirm this?

Kenny

kennyanc

09-29-2008, 08:45 PM

Anybody have any recomendations for hotels and/or secure truck storage in Laredo? We will be in MX for 2 weeks.

Kenny

Richard_

09-29-2008, 08:55 PM

Anybody have any recomendations for hotels and/or secure truck storage in Laredo? We will be in MX for 2 weeks.

Kenny

I have worked out secure parking in Laredo.

Secure Trailer Lots
$75 for 5 days or $20 per day
877-819-9526

Secure trailer lots provides a fenced/guarded compound for 18 wheeler trailers and have agreed to let riders park vehicles/trailers at their facility in Laredo for the special rate of $75 for 5 days. Anyone who wants to do this needs to call in advance to make a reservation and pay the fee in advance.

The reason I did this is because the Laredo airport only has open parking - no fees, but no fence, guards, etc.

miltonotto

09-29-2008, 11:05 PM

So say I pay this $500 bond, how soon we get it back once we get back? Is this bond posted with Mexican govt....kindy scary considering my pass experiences with their corruption:eek2:

Border crossing into Mexico these days is adequately sophisticated with computers, internet the works. When I crossed at Laredo couple of days ago it was
1) Get your tourist card filled out and stamped,
Paso 2) Get your documents photocopied for $1.75 (there's the state of "corruption" these days), Passport, Tourist Card (you just got it at Paso 1), Drivers License, and vehicle title,
Paso 3) Get your permit to temporaily import your vehicle, this requires $31 charge to a credit card, plus you have to pay for the Tourist Card (another $23) which you can now do at the same window where you get you vehicle papers (that's progress). That's it. If everything is in order your done. Bikes, trailers get extra treatment but I don't think the fees are any greater but I',m not positive. The credit card is used as assurance that you don't sell the vehicle in Mexico. Its used as the "bond" but I have never seen a $500 charge or a refund. When you leave Mexico, make sure you check out, that is CANCELL our vehicle permit at the car place before you leave. In Laredo, at Bridge #2 (Puente 2) it is set up that you Cancel the car papers at a booth just in front of the bridge toll booth, very slick. It is all done with computers and scanners. Yea Mexico!

What happens if you don't cancell your papers upon leaving? Well, you can't never import another vehicle. Don't ask me how I know.

Chango

10-01-2008, 02:01 PM

Here is some more parking info for Laredo Texas from Their website.

I will probably park here.

RIVERFRONT PARKING FEES
SECURED AREA WITH CAMERAS
HOURLY $1.00 Passenger Vehicles
LONGTERM (PER DAY) $8.00 Passenger Vehicles
TRACTORS & RECREATIONAL VEHICLES $10.00 Tractor-Trailer combinations are prohibited.
BUSES $20.00
- Riverfront parking lot is operated 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

http://www.cityoflaredo.com/bridgesys/ParkingFees.htm

Richard_

10-01-2008, 04:55 PM

That's great info, Chango. Thanks.

tricepilot

10-01-2008, 05:32 PM

http://www.laposadahotel.com/ (http://www.laposadahotel.com/)

I've got reservations at this place in Laredo on the 10th and I'll let you all know what I think.

We had a group meeting last night for the Guadalajara contingent and two of them stayed here and said it was great - 99 bucks a night, secure parking, etc.

Bob

Ruidoso Ron

10-01-2008, 08:41 PM

LaPosada is a very nice hotel. Walking distance from the border.

miltonotto

10-01-2008, 10:04 PM

The only place to stay in Laredo. I love the breakfasts.

cotton

10-09-2008, 05:20 PM

Richard,
One of the reasons I wanted to cross with the group in McAllen - is so I would have someone experienced along when I went thru the border paperwork. (haveing never crossed the border before) Any chance you can reconsider your plan and go thru the paperwork when we leave on Wednesday morning.
cotton

Richard_

10-09-2008, 05:49 PM

cotton,

Let me think on it. Trying to get a sizeable group through the paperwork process at the border can take hours. Especially if it is busy time at the border. I'm wanting to avoid losing several hours at the border doing the paperwork.

cotton

10-09-2008, 06:10 PM

Jerry

10-09-2008, 07:17 PM

Richard,
I understand the problem, and you are trying to maximize rideing time. Maybe there will be others arriveing at the Motel 6 earlier in the day Tuesday. Then we could go together for paperwork maybe 6:00 or 7:00 PM on tuesday. This is probably the best solution.
Cotton

I'll be arriving at the Motel 6 well before dark on Tuesday. I already have a vehicle permit, but I need to get my tourist permit. Let's link up and ride over to get our papers then. PM me for details.

Richard_

10-09-2008, 07:18 PM

Richard,
I understand the problem, and you are trying to maximize rideing time. Maybe there will be others arriveing at the Motel 6 earlier in the day Tuesday. Then we could go together for paperwork maybe 6:00 or 7:00 PM on tuesday. This is probably the best solution.
Cotton

How about it, other riders going to McAllen? Is anybody going to be there earlier on Tuesday that can hook up with Cotton?

Wasabi

10-09-2008, 09:10 PM

How about it, other riders going to McAllen? Is anybody going to be there earlier on Tuesday that can hook up with Cotton?

Yes, I hope to be in McAllen around 4pm on Tuesday. I will be staying at the Motel 6. I have been across a couple times, but not at this location. So lets get together. :rider:

Bill Joye

RICK M

10-09-2008, 10:34 PM

Rick M and Big A will be there earlier on Tuesday - we will hook at the Motel 6
We need some moral support also ..:eek2:
Rick

terlingua

10-10-2008, 08:53 AM

Me and one other will be there too. I don't know what time as of yet. He is three hr, north of me and I am about four are five hr form McAllen. I'm hopeing by three are so to be there.

Pinklloyd

10-14-2008, 10:20 AM

all right mejico riders. the clock is ticking down. pink will be meeting you guys wednesday morn at the motel 6 parking lot ready to ride. i got some old timer friends leaving this weekend for the copper canyon and some others going to big bend. it's difficult not to envy retirees. oh well somebody must pay for the bailout.

RICK M

10-14-2008, 08:21 PM

Rick M and Big A will be in McAllen Tuesday afternoon ,we would like to meet with you other guys in McAllen so we can go do our paperwork togather. We are staying at the Motel 6 also.
call me when you get there Rick 254-718-0285
Any one else wanting to meet up chime in with your name and number so we can hook up . I cant wait to go but I am a little worried about getting across the border .:eek2: