Mexico Riders & Wannabee Mexico Riders

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Grettings from Angola! That would be the country, not the prison in Louisiana. I am here on business.

It has occurred to me that we have a lot of folks here interested in riding to Mexico in various different fashions. Some will go to rallies like the BMW rally that was held in Guadalajara, or to the Galeana ride sponsored by Richard_. Others go solo or with a small group for street rides only, yet others for dual-purpose rides and some for dirt only by hauling a trailer with their truck. There is much variety in the type of riding as well as the objectives of each of the rides.

There are also others out in the TWT audience that would like to go, but are intimidated by not having the language or cultural skills, or who simply do not want to ride there alone. I believe those in this category would venture a trip into Mexico if someone with experience in Mexico would be willing to serve as an informal mentor/guide.

The objective of this thread is to list those who have been to Mexico and to list those who would like to go Mexico. So in this regard riders can link up with each other on a voluntary basis, or just serve as a resource for information. Mexico provides rich opportunities for adventure and is so close to Texas that I think it would be natural for us to take the time and opportunity to explore it.

If you are interested in listing yourself, below is a format that I think would be useful, but please modify it for your own post/listing as you see fit. I would recommend answering the questions below with more than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Wannabees should also post here so that we know you are interested in making a ride into Mexico, so we can contact you or you can contact us.

Been to Mexico: Cite here whether or not you have been to Mexico and whether or not you were there on a bike. If you have a ride report(s) on your trip(s), then please link it here.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: If you do speak Spanish cite your comfort level with the language. If you do not speak Spanish, then also cite so here.

Type Riding: Cite whether you are willing to ride into Mexico for street only, dirt only or both.

Bike(s) for Mexico: List bikes you have that you are willing to ride in Mexico.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Cite here whether or not you are willing to ride to Mexico with another rider who has never been there before, or what qualifications you deem appropriate for riding with someone else to Mexico. Even if you don’t want to mentor/guide IRL just answering questions on the board makes you a resource for any of the wannabees.

Attend Rallies: Cite here whether you like to attend rallies in Mexico where there are large groups of riders.

Group Rider: Cite here if you are okay with riding in a group to a given destination in Mexico. As an example some riders like to ride solo to rallies, only grouping up at the rally point.

Interstate Rider: Cite here whether or not you ride US Interstates (on the way to the border).

Cuota Rider: Cite here whether or not you ride Cuota highways in Mexico.

Camper: Cite here if you are willing to camp, or not, in Mexico.

SPOT User: Cite here if you use SPOT.

GPS User: Cite here if you use GPS.

Willing to Scout: Cite here if you are willing to serve as a scout. Anytime you post a ride report you are serving as an informal scout for others who have not been there. However, there are some of us that are willing to do this formally by going some place specifically requested by others where none of us have been before. As an example, if a rider is headed to Guatemala, someone may ask the rider to check out the border area along the Usumacinta River area for dirt roads. See Usumacinta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usumacinta)

My filled out form will follow this post.

Mike

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Been to Mexico: Yes, I have been to Mexico many times. I have visited several different parts of the country. However, I have only been there a few times on a motorcycle. Most of my travel to Mexico has been business related. My latest ride reports can be found on my my sigtag.

Speak Spanish and at what level: I am comfortable with Spanish in all situations. I am regarded as fluent/native speaker and also understand the cultures of Latin America. I have been to most of the countries in Latin America, but not on motorcycle. I am a dual citizen US/Costa Rica.

Type Riding: I ride street, dirt, and dual bikes. However at this time I only own a street bike.

Bike(s) for Mexico: I currently ride a Honda CB250 Nighthawk. I will be getting a dual-purpose at some later date. I only ride small displacement engine bikes, 650cc or less with a heavy preference to the 250cc class. If I can’t flatfoot a bike I won’t ride it. My cruising speed is just under 70 mph. Even on 650cc class, I will rarely exceed 75mph. This applies to anywhere in the world.

Willing to Mentor: Yes. I will announce my rides into Mexico here on the forum. If you want to ride along with me as your first trip into Mexico you should contact me via PM. Likewise if you are already experienced in Mexico feel free to contact me if you are looking for another rider. Don’t contact me if you use any kind of narcotics, even the recreational use of things like marijuana. Likewise if you go to Mexico for sex tourism, no need to contact me. Also, if you drink and ride, I won’t be riding with you. However, a drink after the day’s ride is always fine with me as long as there is no riding afterward. If you are a wannabee, then you should also already be an experienced motorcyclist sans the Mexico portion if you would like me to be a ride partner.

Attend Rallies: No. As of now I will not attend rallies or other large gatherings of riders. However, I may consider Galeana for ’09.

Group Rider: For rides into Mexico I limit the size to three riders including myself, of which two (including myself) must be fluent Spanish speakers. For two riders, including myself, the other rider can be an English only speaker. I don’t do border crossings en masse. So, this means I won't let myself be used as a translator for a large English speaking group (or mechanic for that matter).

Interstate Rider: I do not ride on interstates unless I must. This would be for things like crossing bodies of water.

Cuota Rider: Same policy as for interstates. EDIT: However, in MEX the cuota roads have little traffic, so I will ride these when I am time constrained.

Camper: No. I will not camp in Mexico or even in the US. I love the great outdoors but also enjoy modern plumbing and appliances as opposed to slit trenches and Dutch ovens (my Army days are over).

SPOT User: I use a SPOT.

GPS User: I do not use a GPS. I am a UTM land navigator by training and carry topographical maps when needed for remote areas.

Willing to Scout: Yes, I am willing to scout, solo or within my 3-rider group limit as cited above. I am used to working and traveling in remote areas on my own, and in hostile environments.

[tricepilot]

Speak Spanish and at what level: I am comfortable with Spanish in all situations. I am regarded as fluent and also understand the cultures of Latin America. I have been to most of the countries in Latin America, but not on motorcycle.



My level of Spanish depends on the situation.

When talking to the law, I only say the following:

"No Fumar Español" - roughly, "I don't smoke Spanish" :lol2:

Bob

[Mike in Clear Lake]

..."No Fumar Español" - roughly, "I don't smoke Spanish" :lol2:

Bob

Yes, but my spies tell me you actually say a lot more than that in Spanish ;-)

So are you willing to serve as mentor to new riders into Mexico?

[tricepilot]

Yes, but my spies tell me you actually say a lot more than that in Spanish ;-)



My level of Spanish depends on the situation....:trust:

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/222428924_UoM7w-L.jpg

[AusFletch]

Mike, this is an interesting idea and one I have struggled with for years. On one hand me encanta Mexico and the adventures it offers quite literally right on our doorstep. OTOH, I am not sure I really want too many other folks to 'discover' it. This lack of appreciation by Norteamericanos is one of the most compelling facets for me. Selfish, I know...

That being said, I sure wish there had been a resource like this available for me when I first started traveling down there so it only seems right to share. I hope some find it useful.


Been to Mexico: I have been to Mexico about a dozen and a half times since 1985 and multiple times by bike since 2005. I did lead a group of friends down there on one trip and found introducing others to Mexico to be a VERY rewarding experience. Below are a few of my ride reports followed by associated photo galleries.

My most recent trip to Mexico....
http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29595
http://ausfletch.smugmug.com/gallery/5537940_Q3smQ#339178946_kVGaD

First effort at "guiding"....
http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=22135
http://ausfletch.smugmug.com/gallery/3743091_zND6s#216491749_t9X8H

Work trip to Mexico....
http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11449
http://www.smugmug.com/gallery/1748025_U9sWA#86521345_zNDDQ

First trip to Mexico by bike.....
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1338525#post1338525
http://ausfletch.smugmug.com/gallery/427440_YLUsH#17783646_yKe8J

Summer spent living in Mexico (pictures only)...
http://ausfletch.smugmug.com/Travel/62735



Speak Spanish and at what comfort level:This is a tough one. My wife and I joke that between the two of us we are fluent because she listens and I talk but this is pretty much true in English, too. :trust: Improving my Spanish is one of things I enjoy most about traveling in Mexico. I am quite the annoying platicador when down there. Seriously, I can take care of most all necessities and hold slow and rudimentary conversations but don't plan to discuss existential philosophy or international politics with me...

Type Riding: I will ride any where any time I am able in Mexico.

Bike(s) for Mexico: 2007 BMW R1200GS Adv and Suzuki DR650 but I have a birthday coming up soon.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: I am willing to mentor and/or guide folks but don't like large groups or, perhaps more accurately, they usually don't like ME. :zen:

Attend Rallies: I don't really like rallies or large traveling groups in any country but am willing to try anything twice.

Group Rider: I like riding with small groups who share travel interests and outlooks.

Interstate Rider: I exclusively ride interstates to the border but this is only because my time is limited and I prefer to maximize my time IN Mexico not GETTING TO Mexico. Once in Mexico I prefer a mix of cuotas to get me to the area I am visiting then spend my time on secondary roads traveled by local poplulation. Again, this is primarily a result of time constraints.

Cuota Rider: I like cuotas for covering ground (very) rapidly and safely when necessary but they offer nothing for the primary reasons I like to visit Mexico - people and culture.

Camper: While I enjoy camping in the US I prefer to stay in local (if modest) accomodations when in Mexico. This is largely because I enjoy the opportunities to meet and interact with people.

SPOT User: I do not use SPOT but I do have a birthday coming up soon. I may have mentioned that already. Think my wife will read this thread????

GPS User: Do I use GPS? Does a bear..... I also have Bicimapas of Mexico.

Willing to Scout: I am more than willing to serve as a scout. This actually seems like a great way to see things I might have had no occasion to experience otherwise.


-Fred

[CBAT]

I travel moslty north of the border. I have plenty of places I haven't been yet. But the list is growing for places south also. So many places; so little vacation.

Been to Mexico: Several times over the last 8 years.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Very basic language abilities. I can order food and pay for what I need. As far as an in depth conversation; I need a lot of hand jestures. I prefer to travel with someone more fluent than myself.

Type Riding: Street or dirt; it matters not.

Bike(s) for Mexico: Whatever fits the ride

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Glad to share my experiences but would rather not lead a total newb going across the border.

Attend Rallies: I don't generally enjoy large groups. Richard's Adventure Ride would be an exception. That looks fun.

Group Rider: I don't mind riding with a group as long as everyone is on the same page as far as group think.

Interstate Rider: I stay off interstates unless I need to make time.

Cuota Rider: See above.

Camper: Mexican hotels are inexpensive. Why not use them?

SPOT User: I have a SPOT.

GPS User: yes but have not done so in Mexico.

Willing to Scout: Not alone.

[Chango]

Been to Mexico : Many times

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level : Most levels, Including but not limited to presentations.

Type Riding : Street & Dirt

Bikes for Mexico : Depends on terrain. Ural 2 wd. with sidecar , CZ 175 Border Town Bike , BMW R80GS.

Willing to mentor /guide: Would not mind riding with a fellow riders.

Attend Rallies : Have been to multiple rallies in Mexico . Saltillo, Monterrey, Piedras Negras, Acuna, Metrek,Mountian Recon.

Group Rider : Small group only.

Interstate Rider: Not my style.

Cuota Rider: Try to ride the old highways.

Camper:Prefer hotel with shower.

Spot user: No

GPS user: No

Willing to scout : Yes

[Chango]

Ineresting thread .:rider:

[Chango]

:trust:

My level of Spanish depends on the situation....:trust:

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/222428924_UoM7w-L.jpg

[GTgirl]

Excellent thread!

Been to Mexico: Many times. A couple of times on bikes.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: It's more like butchering spanish. I am told my accent is bueno. (I think he was talking about my accent!???hum..maybe not)

Type Riding: Street or dirt; Don't care.

Bike(s) for Mexico: Whatever fits the ride. I have ridden my Valkyrie and my KLR down so far.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: If you don't mind being lost...sure why not!

Attend Rallies: I don't generally enjoy large groups. MexTrek was a great ride. A large group to kick tires then taking off with your own ride group

Group Rider: I don't mind riding with a group no larger than 4-6 as long as everyone is on the same page as far as group think. Your only as good as your least experienced rider. And I have to know that the least experienced rider will not put my life or the lives of other riders in danger.

Interstate Rider: I stay off interstates unless I need to make time.

Camper: I have camped in Mexico. But nothing beats hot running water after a long ride.

SPOT User: nope

GPS User: Only for the home button.

Willing to Scout: Not alone.

Delores
__________________

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Great replies so far. If you know of other Mex riders please steer them over here in case they missed the thread.

No Wannabees seem to have posted yet. Likewise with them.

[Antonio Zerrweck]

MUY INTERESANTE!!!:clap: :thumb:

[ed29]

Been to Mexico: I am a wannabe... I would like to try Mexico on a motorcycle.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: I do not speak Spanish beyond simple greetings, would learn some phrases before hand that might be handy. What would those be by the way??

Type Riding: Both would be good, rough mountain country sounds like fun to me.

Bike(s) for Mexico: KLR-650 or XR-250

Willing to Mentor/Guide: N.A... I am one of the wannabees.

Attend Rallies: Prefer smaller groups.

Group Rider: Okay with this.

Interstate Rider: Not a problem to ride US Interstates (on the way to the border).

Cuota Rider: What's a Cuota?

Camper: Prefer not to camp in Mexico, at least at first.

SPOT User: Don't have a SPOT.

GPS User: Do have a GPS.

Willing to Scout: N.A.... wannabee.

[CBAT]

Cuota Rider: What's a Cuota?

Toll Road ;-)

[z_clark]

Been to Mexico: Yep! And will be back for all of January and some of February. I have also been to most other Latin American countries too (by chicken bus, not moto).

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: I am plenty comfy speaking Spanish...but this dones't mean I am doing it correctly! I am .25 fluent!

Type Riding: Street, and short off road on street bike

Bike(s) for Mexico: Ninja 250 is my choice. I would recommend any other small bike so you can blend in a bit.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Mentor yes. Guide maybe for a day or two

Attend Rallies: Don't you need rear-less chaps for these? Nope.

Group Rider: I am a loner for the most part. Wouldn't mind riding with some one for a day or two. I like to go at my own pace.

Interstate Rider: Interstates to border are OK by me.

Cuota Rider: Cuotas are OK by me sometimes.

Camper: Sure, but I hate taking stuff.

SPOT User: :wary: .

GPS User: :wary: .

Willing to Scout: :thumb:

[disbanded]

I went to Mexico last year as a beginner, but came back as a pro.

Go here to read my ride report. I became a man out there.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=283298

[rgatling]

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC ride report you have on ADV Rider! DON'T cross the bridge :clap:

I went to Mexico last year as a beginner, but came back as a pro.

Go here to read my ride report. I became a man out there.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=283298

[Mike in Clear Lake]

[B][COLOR="blue"]Cuota Rider: What's a Cuota?

Ed,

Cuota is a high-speed toll road. Typically these will parallel an older road. The older road will go through towns whereas the toll road will bypass these. Think US highway system versus US Interstate, e.g., Route 66 verus I-10.

Mike

[GTgirl]

Read Disbanded's RR. It's a good thing you aren't my son! After hugs, kisses and thanking God that you were still alive, I would have kicked your butt all the way back to the border! That's why I chose carefully who I ride with. Because of your silliness you could have put yourself and the other riders in grave danger. Now....after my $.02.. I am glad to see that you learned an important lesson from that little adventure AND you got some great pictures to share with the rest of us.

[Mike in Clear Lake]

MUY INTERESANTE!!!:clap: :thumb:

This is like finding a date over the internet :rider:

[disbanded]

Read Disbanded's RR. It's a good thing you aren't my son! After hugs, kisses and thanking God that you were still alive, I would have kicked your butt all the way back to the border! That's why I chose carefully who I ride with. Because of your silliness you could have put yourself and the other riders in grave danger. Now....after my $.02.. I am glad to see that you learned an important lesson from that little adventure AND you got some great pictures to share with the rest of us.


You sound just like my mother! ;-)

[GTgirl]

You sound just like my mother! ;-)

:-P The kids can move away but Moma is always your Moma. And you are never too old to spank!

So when is your next trip down? Any recommendations as to when a good time of year to go would be? I have been going through post trip depression since Galeana. The depression always hits after any bid ride. I am sooooo looking forward to my next big trip!

Well, keep the the bike right side up and the map right side down and you'll never miss an adventure.

Delores

[disbanded]

The best time to go is when it isn't too hot. The heat can be relentless down in the canyons. So the best time to go is late October, early November, or sometime in early Spring. We hope to go again in March.

[Mike in Clear Lake]

The best time to go is when it isn't too hot. The heat can be relentless down in the canyons. So the best time to go is late October, early November, or sometime in early Spring. We hope to go again in March.

We are drifiting off topic. How about posting a profile of yourself if you want to be a resource ;)

[gotdurt]

I'm more of a wanna be, but time and money (or lack there-of) keep me state side right now. I was supposed to go with disbanded and his dad a couple of weeks ago, but he just haaaad to be a responsible business owner and cancel at the last minute.

Since I have been to Baja and no one has mentioned that (at least in my skimming), I'll throw that in.

Been to Mexico: Yes, Baja Norte. We zig-zagged from Yuma to Baja Sur and returned.

Speak Spanish and at what level: I took spanish in high school, and was surprised at how quickly the grammar came back while in Baja. Vocab was lacking, but picked that up pretty quick too. That was years ago though, I'd be starting all over again with the vocab now.

Type Riding: I ride street to get to the dirt, and if I could skip the street and ride dirt to the dirt, I would.

Bike(s) for Mexico: Now, DR650. I rode an XR650L on the Baja trip.

Willing to Mentor: Mentor, haha. let's go get lost together!

Attend Rallies: Not a fan of crowds in general, much less riding in crowds.

Group Rider: Prefer solo, although for safety's sake I now like to ride with one or 2 more riders, maybe more depending on who they are. I'll admit I'm kind of picky about who I ride with, especially if we were to cross the border.

Interstate Rider: Not unless I'm in a hurry.

Cuota Rider: My wife thinks I'm cute.

Camper: Yes please. Personally I'd rather sleep on dirt than in a motel bed. Ick.

SPOT User: Gosh no. No offense to those who use them, because it's a smart way to go, but I thrive on the adventure, and knowing that someone always knows where I am erodes the thrill.

GPS User: No, again with the adventure. I do carry one, mainly so I can mark cool places and keep track of where I've been, but I don't navigate by one, it takes all the fun out.

Willing to Scout: That's the way I prefer it. I don't care for organized rides.

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Cuota Rider: My wife thinks I'm cute.


:mrgreen:

[disbanded]

Been to Mexico: Took a trip to Copper Canyon last year, including Creel, Batopilas, Choix and everything in between. Even spent some time alone - lost. Here is my ride report again. Don't miss it!

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=283298

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: I took 4 semesters of Spanish in college, so I am pretty fluent. With me and 1 other guy that was pretty good, we almost equaled 1 Mexican.

Type Riding: 99.5% offroad, and .5% street.

Bike(s) for Mexico: 05 KLR 650, my baby.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: I feel like I could give some pretty good info regarding the area of Mexico I visited.

Attend Rallies: Would rather not, unless I am racing.

Group Rider: Sure, as long as you don't get freaked out by my constant wheelies.

Interstate Rider: Only on the way home.

Cuota Rider: Only on the way home.

Camper: I love to camp if the weather is right.

SPOT User: No thanks.

GPS User: Only to mark where I have been. Most of the dirt roads in Copper Canyon aren't on any maps or gps. Just use gps tracking to get back to where I came from - unless the batteries go out! I had a few Mexicans draw maps for me that were invaluable.

Willing to Scout: Well, I was a boy scout. So yes, I scout.

[Mike in Clear Lake]

... I had a few Mexicans draw maps for me that were invaluable...

For you newbies, the above is an excellent example of the friendliness a lot of us have experienced down there :thumb:

[disbanded]

Just for fun - here are 2 of the actual maps that were drawn for me. Notice the first one is on a job resume. The guy pulled out some paper and drew me up a great map.

I also posted these in my ride report. I will probably keep them forever.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/disbanded/MexicoMap1.jpg

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b49/disbanded/MexicoMap2.jpg

[gotdurt]

For you newbies, the above is an excellent example of the friendliness a lot of us have experienced down there :thumb:

Except for the drunk soldier we came across in Baja that steered us in the wrong direction :lol2: Honest mistake I think though...

[slowoldguy]

I guess I'm a gonnabe :rider: .


Been to Mexico: Maybe a dozen times, never on an bike or as a driver.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: 3 years of high school Spanish, 2 years of college Spanish. I can barely order at Taco Bell. "Hola , Isabel. Como estas?" "Estoy bien, gracias , y tu' ?" Conversacion Uno. Repetan, por favor.

Type Riding: Street, improved dirt, maybe some Class II.

Bike(s) for Mexico: Right now only the recently purchased KLR. Hopefully soon the LT and the GS Adventure.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: I'm more than willing to share what I know. If I knew anything. But I don't.

Attend Rallies: Uhhhhhhh........I'd rather poke a spoke through my eye.

Group Rider: To the ride point, no problem with 6-8-10. Beyond that uh-uh. Once we get there 4-5 max. At present I'll have my 2 nephews with me. Combined we are 19 feet tall and weigh a bit shy of 750 lbs. We ARE a group ride. :trust:

Interstate Rider: Will trailer the KLR.

Cuota Rider: To the destination point. If it's more of a tour than a destination then no.

Camper: I stopped camping a long, long time ago. Oh, wait...that wasn't really camping. That was passing out outside. Nevermind.

SPOT User: Nope. I'm running from creditors.

GPS User: I'm a map guy.

Willing to Scout: Sure. Follow the Mexico noob. LOL.

[DaKingMan]

Been to Mexico: I have been to Mexico dozens of times over the last 20 years that I have worked down there although only once to Copper Canyon on a motorcycle.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: I speak fluent Spanish (100%)

Type Riding: I will ride on the street as far as necessary to get to the dirt.

Bike(s) for Mexico: 06 KLR 650

Willing to Mentor/Guide: yes--as long as all riders are compatible

Attend Rallies: Depends on what kind of rally. I would have gone to Chabochis in October but work got in the way.

Group Rider: I prefer a small group of compatible riders for safety. This has proven to be a good idea in the past.

Interstate Rider: Prefer to trailer to the border and then highway to get to the dirt quicker

Cuota Rider: Dont mind the cuotas if I need to get to dirt quicker

Camper: Prefer not to camp in Mexico

SPOT User: Don't own one but think it is a good idea

GPS User: Zumo 550

Willing to Scout: depends on situation

[Mike in Clear Lake]

I just met up with DaKingMan at the local Borders. Worldly traveler and fluent in Spanish :thumb:

Mike

[DaKingMan]

Hey Mike,

Enjoyed meeting you and talking to you. I really hope you can visit us tomorrow around 3:30 for our little get-together.
We look forward to seeing you!

Rgds,

Charlie (DaKingMan)


I just met up with DaKingMan at the local Borders. Worldly traveler and fluent in Spanish :thumb:

Mike

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Hey Mike,

Enjoyed meeting you and talking to you. I really hope you can visit us tomorrow around 3:30 for our little get-together.
We look forward to seeing you!

Rgds,

Charlie (DaKingMan)

Charlie,

Thanks for the invite! :thumb: Unfortunately (and as suspected) the wife has already made plans (mother-in-law is in town for the holidays). However, we are just a stone's throw away, so let's plan something for Feb when we are back in town from our oilfield travels.

Saludos!

Mike

[Texason]

I am a big "wannabe". I ride a sport-tourer... so no off-road riding for me. I've seen other road-riding reports of Mexico that still looked like fun though. I would love to get to the interior or even the coast through the interior someday.

Been to Mexico: For all intents and purposes, no.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Very little and very rusty Spanish speaking skills.

Type Riding: Street only.

Bike(s) for Mexico: Honda ST1300

Willing to Mentor/Guide: No useful skills here.

Attend Rallies: This would be acceptable.

Group Rider: Absolutely would prefer and enjoy riding as a group.

Interstate Rider: Interstates are fine. The ST1300 eats them up.

Cuota Rider: Yes, I'll ride any improved road, even if I have to pay for it.

Camper: Maybe with a group. I think I would prefer not to camp on my first Mexico riding experience.

SPOT User: No tengo una SPOT.

GPS User: Si tengo una GPS.

Willing to Scout: I don't think I have anything useful to contribute in this category.

[Eric2Tex]

Been to Mexico: Only once, on bike for the Hu rally in 06 in Creel

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Not much

Type Riding: Street or mild dirt

Bike(s) for Mexico: r1200gs

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Not that good

Attend Rallies: See above

Group Rider: Best way for n00bs to see it IMO

Interstate Rider: I would rather stay off of them

Cuota Rider: Sure, if it gets me to where i'm going

Camper: Possibly, but hotel occasionally

SPOT User: Nope

GPS User: Nope

Willing to Scout: Maybe


I was a compleat n00b when i went to the HU rally in creel. Went with a
couple other GS riders and a chase car; had a blast. We got lucky though, as a tour group let us tag along ( if anyone knows art with r20 please pm me his addy cuz i owe him!) It wouldn't have been near as good without that group
accomodating us n00bs.

I highly recommend visiting creel and batopilas, another must-see is basaseachi falls by guerro. The only thing i can add is that is to get
5 things done before going.

1) Visa and vehicle permits, may need a passport by now
2) bike insurance
3) personal insurance like medjet
4) good maps
5) mexico maps for your gps if so equipped

Personally, i though the horizons unlimited rally was poorly run, and the food served at the site was the worst we had all trip, but hey I got a t-shirt. The roads and scenery were great though. I would love to go back someday. when I left creel I rode solo back with no issues. Creel is an easy day ride from BB or presidio. Took a bunch of pictures down there, and packed a video camera to film the ascent (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3899739159459351662&hl=en) about 45 minutes worth from batopilas.

Again, if you haven't been, its worth going to. I didn't see many bargains
except for some food here and there. ATMs worked great, and the folks were
friendly. I would pay for the toll roads again just to see the babes working the booths.

So if theres any dates y'all have in mind lets hear 'em.

[EagleSpirit]

I realy Wannabee.

Been to Mexico: Yes, many times, I was born in Mexico have ridden motorcycle in Mexico but not in a dual sport adventure.

Speak Spanish and at what level: Yes, Spanish is my native language

Type Riding: I ride street, dirt.

Willing to Mentor:No

Attend Rallies: No

Group Rider: Yes

Interstate Rider: Yes

Cuota Rider: Yes

Camper: No

SPOT User: No

GPS User: Yes

Willing to Scout:No

[TexasShadow]

Been to Mexico: Nope, but want to go.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Questi capiscono Italiano? :mrgreen:

Type Riding: Both, but a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio street:dirt.

Bike(s) for Mexico: KLR250, but need some mods, like a larger gas tank. I'm working on it.

Attend Rallies: I don't do rallies. I'd prefer a small group, up to six riders.

Group Rider: Either/or to the border, but desire a 'guide' south of El Rio.

Interstate Rider: On a 250? :eek2:

Camper: I agree about taking advantage of hotels/motels down there. And don't have to carry camping gear.

SPOT User: I saw SPOT run! (sorry, couldn't resist) Nada.

GPS User: 60scx Garmin

[Shadman]

I guess I should have looked for this thread before posting in your other thread of Mex Feb 09'

Been to Mexico: 8-10 times in cars / planes. Brother lived in GTO for years and I'd visit. Last trip was in the fall to go to his wedding in GTO, SM de Allende. Drove with the family and kids, great trip. Been to Real De Catorce, D.F., gulf beaches, pacific coast...

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: I very comfortably speak very little Spanish. It's never a problem, I get by just fine with a little sign language and winks and smiles. I love the people!

Type Riding: Street, dirt, dual sport, minibikes, mopeds, anything! 27 yrs experience dirt, 22 street, 4 road racing. One street lowside in my teens, one run off at speed in the forest (my first 1000!), one brick to the toe (dark). Otherwise, accident free. I know my limits.

Bike(s) for Mexico: 1996 XR600, 2006 plated CRF150F ( runs like a 250, 55mph cruise, 70 mph top end, light nimble, perfect for Mexico..just a little slow). Also have funds for buying and selling whatever bike is suited to a particular ride. I've got my eye on the new KLR250.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: All I can do is be a positive friend, with shop mechanic experience from my college days.

Attend Rallies: Sure, but I'd rather ride for fun than to get to a far far away destination to hang out with a big group.

Group Rider: Group (more than 4 or 5 is chaos, but multiple smaller groups work fine if no one is afraid of maybe not hooking back up), not afraid to ride solo, but prefer at least one mate to "kick it" with.

Interstate Rider: Yes, but prefer two lanes of fun. Prefer to minimiize risk of mechanicals by trailering closer to border.

Cuota Rider: Depends on bike's 80+ MPH capability. Most days the backroads suit me best.

Camper: Yes, but prefer a cheap hotel

SPOT User: No

GPS User: Yes, mild use with a Nuvi

Willing to Scout: Yes

New category: Located in Houston, have full size 4 door Titan, and trailer to haul 3-4 bikes, riders, and gear to the border.

[kiko]

deleted by kiko

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Kiko - you can ride with me anytime. Nice profile.

[Ixta]

Been to Mexico: Probably around 100 trips including several solo. Introduced to Mexico in the 60's as a wee one with my dad who was always exploring for the next un-floated river. Later in college as a caver and back-packer, which remained a solid habit for about 25 years (and the reason I moved to San Antonio). Then camping and exploring with my family and kids. A hand-full of MC trips in the 70's and early 80's west of Acuna and a few more recent exploring the mountains around Bustamante, but not nearly enough.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Poor 150 word vocab with awful grammar, but trying counts and it's never been a problem when combined with politeness and a smile. Attempting to learn more to understand why the Mexican mechanics are always competing to see who is taller ☺

Type Riding: Prefer the back-roads and unpaved - Eastern SLP, through the middle of nowhere in Coahuila etc.

Bike(s) for Mexico: WR250R for the really fun stuff & R1100GS for the not quite so fun stuff.

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Sure, but with like-minded folks.

Attend Rallies: Nope.

Group Rider: Prefer solo or very small groups.

Interstate Rider: Only as necessary.

Cuota Rider: There are areas where the toll roads are the best and safest option (traffic) depending on the destination.

Camper: Oh yeah. Slept under bridges, near cemeteries, and by the side of the road many times. Still camp, but this old body now prefers motels.

SPOT User: Yes.

GPS User: Yes

Willing to Scout: Every trip is a scouting trip.

Always been a sucker for a good Mexico trip and it doesn't take much to launch an adventure. I just got back from ten days (March, 2009) in Guerrero. Never felt safer.

Favorite Mexico story, December 1992: A climbing exploration trip in the mountains in eastern SLP with three friends in an old International Scout. The transmission went out about midnight on the old Pan-American road south of Cd. Valles. We were too tired and not quite sober enough to start repairs, so just rolled our bed-rolls out by the side of the road. Then the fun started. First, a truck driver (Modello) stopped to see if we needed help, we declined, but he offered free cold samples of his load. A passer-by on foot invited us to a wedding party about 1 km down the road where we had all kinds of fun until the wee hours. After a short night's sleep in the ditch, we woke to a Grandmotherly lady standing over us suggesting that we looked hungry (we were) and insisted that we follow her over to her house for breakfast. In hind-sight, she was the village alpha matron (the Jefe's Jefe) and came over to check us out. Belly full, I caught a bus into Valles with a shopping list of transmission parts while the Scout's owner dropped the transmission for repairs and we were on our way. The parts store owner demanded that I allow him to drive me back to our vehicle.

Now the real story: We had not seen a bath in several days and were a pretty ratty looking bunch: A terrorist-looking Greek fellow with a long pony-tail, a beard which started just below his eye-sockets and lots of tattoos; a generic hard-core South Austin hippie; a run-of-the-mill unshaven East Texas redneck (you know who you are) and me (look like the cartel’s accountant, or that’s what US immigration once joked). We weren’t harmless looking kids - everyone in their 30’s and 40’s

The locals adopted us. But we were veteran Mexico travelers spewing respect and knew how to behave.

Turning the situation around, would a group of ratty looking slightly inebriated Mexicans receive the same treatment if they broke down on I-35 and pitched their sleeping bags on the access road south of New Braunfels? Mexican culture is genuine and rural Mexico is a wonderful and safe place. We could learn a lot from them.

There are many roads in Eastern SLP which I need to re-explore via motorcycle. Like that road south out of El Naranjo looking for waterfalls along the El Salto river, or up in the mountains above Aquismon, or….

I’m always itching to go.

[Mike in Clear Lake]

Joel,

All I can say is, wow!

[daveg]

Heh, its kinda like those quizzes that fly around facebook.. but ****, why not??

Been to Mexico: I went to mexico the first time in 2007 and have spent a few weeks total touring Northern/central as well as blasting through the East coast. I rode the bike through 14 Latin American countries including Mexico. 13 if you say Belize isn't latin??

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: I can get by in nearly all situations that one finds themselves while travelling. Borders, bike service, food, and light politics.

Type Riding: Both are great!

Bike(s) for Mexico: F650GS, would like to take my DRZ

Willing to Mentor/Guide: I'll happily answer anyone's question, especially if it is obvious they've tried to do a little research on their own first. I'd guide a group of easygoing riders to Mx. Though I'm really more of a leader of one.

Attend Rallies: I'd rather a close group of riders and not a line of 10 bikes.

Group Rider: ^^

Interstate Rider: Why not? Time isn't a luxury we always have.

Cuota Rider: See above.

Camper: Mexican hotels are inexpensive. Why not use them?

SPOT User: Yes. Satellite phone too!

GPS User: yes, I have an OK world map and Smellybiker's map.

Willing to Scout: Yeah, probably more fun than the actual organized ride.

[AndyT]

Been to Mexico: About a dozen trips since 1997. A couple of airplane trips to Cancun and Ixtapa before that. Rode to Panama in '03 and Argentina in '06.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Mas que un NOOB, pero no con soltura. More than a beginner, but not fluent.

Type Riding: It's all good.

Bike(s) for Mexico: KLR650, Kawasaki Concours, XR400 (not plated)

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Guiding is to much like work. I'm happy to use what skills and experience I have to help, but I have no desire to be in charge.

Attend Rallies: If there is a meet on the way, it is a good way to get clued in to local bike culture, but not as a destination.

Group Rider: Small groups, 4 or less, preferably 2.

Interstate Rider: If the situation calls for it.

Cuota Rider: Ditto above.

Camper: Generally don't camp in Mexico, although I have.

SPOT User: No

GPS User: I broke down and bought one a year ago, have barely gone beyond turning it on.

Willing to Scout: Sure.

quoting Ixta:
Turning the situation around, would a group of ratty looking slightly inebriated Mexicans receive the same treatment if they broke down on I-35 and pitched their sleeping bags on the access road south of New Braunfels?

As well as I have been treated, I will definitely stop if I see a broken down car with Mexican plates.

Mexican culture is genuine and rural Mexico is a wonderful and safe place. We could learn a lot from them.

That's been my experience too. Great post.

[Bucky1845]

Live in Mexico now--San MIguel de Allende. Ride street Honda 750 but have wanted to buy a KLR or something slightly closer to the ground and take off cross country.

Would help as needed a group coming.

[jsb223]

Been to Mexico: A few border town visits and Cozumel on a ship, never traveled by car or motorcycle.

Speak Spanish and at what comfort level: Dinero is money...uno dos tres other than than No Hablo Espanol

Type Riding: Street or dual sport

Bike(s) for Mexico: Trailer to the border then ZRX1100 for street and DRZ400 for dual sport

Willing to Mentor/Guide: Currently a Wannabe but after gaining experience, yes.

Attend Rallies: Rallies are good starting point as long as the riding groups are between 4-6 riders.

Group Rider: Ride in a small group prefered

Interstate Rider: Prefer trailering to the border or alternate roads but on the ZRX some IH traveling is accepteable.

Cuota Rider: If there is scenery and the roads are not crowded, I'll ride it.

Camper: Most likely not.

SPOT User: Nope

GPS User: Only as a backup

Willing to Scout: Yes