Motorbikes.

[Tilapia]

Hello Isaan.

I was wondering if there is some people out there who have a passion for bikes, maybe own one, and if they would like to share knowledge and sometimes meet and go for a drive.

Regards

Tilapia.

[ray23]

Well we have groups here that can meet that description, we are in Udon, where are you?

As a matter of fact going for a group ride tomorrow.

[tahaan]

Yes, I've got a couple of Yamahas, an XJR and a Dragstar.

Sadly, after the weekend's trip to Dansai. My Dragstar's slightly bent and my foot's in plaster!

At least the enforced rest will give me the chance to post on tv.com.

[Tilapia]

Well we have groups here that can meet that description, we are in Udon, where are you?

As a matter of fact going for a group ride tomorrow.

I'm located in Buri-ram, so a little far from Udon, but what I would like is to get together a couple of times per year, and go to some of the bike-weekends as well.

I used to live in Pataya before, plenty of bikes there, up here they are futher apart, but I think we can narrow it down, if the planning is done.

How a nice trip tomorrow, where are you going, and how many bikes are there ?

Regards

Tilapia.

[ray23]

Were headed to Utradot Dam and will hook up with another group from the general area, the White Devils. I wouuld say probably some where around ten bikes just a guess. They are planning a bike meet in that area next February. Tahan just bought a drag star 400, slow but comfortable, hope the foot heals quickly.

[Tilapia]

Yes, I've got a couple of Yamahas, an XJR and a Dragstar.

Sadly, after the weekend's trip to Dansai. My Dragstar's slightly bent and my foot's in plaster!

At least the enforced rest will give me the chance to post on tv.com.

Sorry to hear about your foot, is it the left or right ?? if the right. then you can still drive and change the gear, never mind about breaking, just use the front..( only kidding)

Nice selection of bikes you have there, one for every day of the week.

Hope you get well soon.

Regards

Tilapia

[tahaan]

Thanks Ray. Mine's an 1100. I had a 400 for a while but as you said a bit slow. There again, with the knowledge, skills and training of the average Isaan road user, you certainly don't want to go charging around here enjoying the thrills of speed.

When driving/riding I'm always anticipating the worst from fellow road users, farm equipment, dogs, stray cows and especially bus drivers but sometimes the theory fails. I guess the mishaps keep us on our toes. Or at least they will do when mine heal.

Enjoy your weekend and have a safe trip.

[Tilapia]

Were headed to Utradot Dam and will hook up with another group from the general area, the White Devils. I wouuld say probably some where around ten bikes just a guess. They are planning a bike meet in that area next February. Tahan just bought a drag star 400, slow but comfortable, hope the foot heals quickly.

I never been up there, last time I drove north, was 10 years ago over Chang-Mai, Chang-Rai, and then back to Buri-Ram.

I'm in a difficult age at the moment, I've always been driving sports-bikes, but now I'm getting stiff in the wrong places, so a chopper might be the correct choice, but then again, I wouldent like it, and driving the S-B gives me an excuse to get a massage......

Regards

Tilapia.

[soic]

I live in Non-Dindang in Buri-Ram, and I have just talked the wife into letting me look for a nice bike when I go home this time. I guess we'll be looking in Bangkok, anyone have a recommendation for a decent bike shop? I'd like a Harley, but I don't think that I could find any parts less than 5 hours from the house. I would settle for a Honda or Yamaha 1000 cc or above. Chopper would be a definite, the wife would never walk within a kilometer of a sport bike.

My hope is to get it now, and have it ready for my holiday trips home now, and for when I finally get to stay for good. I still work in Iraq, but hope to stay home soon, sometime this year if I'm lucky.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris

[tahaan]

Thanks Tilapia

It's the left unfortunately. I can't even drive the bl**dy truck. It's a manual.

Not so sure about the comfort of choppers. I tend to feel long rides more on the cruiser. I done Chumphae to Ubon for the bike meet a couple of months ago on the XJR and that was a great trip. I felt a bit of discomfort on the way back but I think that was probably self induced!

Btw, never really rode bikes before moving here - think the climate lends itself. I used to do a lot of cycling in the UK and have always been happier on two wheels. I've worked my way up the ranks, Wave, Phantom etc. I know I don't need two but I can't bring myself to part with one. It's nice to have a choice sometimes.

[H2oDunc]

Soic If you are interested in a bike how about a British bike. There is now a Triumph dealer in Bangkok in thr RCA area of ratchadam. Ive just taken delivery of my Triumph Rocket 3. In every way superior to any Harley ( Thats in my opinion having had both, but you'll never convince a Harley fan ) and cheaper as well. They carry a good selection of bikes and I cannot recommend the service highly enough. Only had the bike 2-1/2 weeks and put 3000km on her. Off to Krabi next week then off up to Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Rai and the Issan and back,I Live in Chumphon. Stay upright

[soic]

Soic If you are interested in a bike how about a British bike. There is now a Triumph dealer in Bangkok in thr RCA area of ratchadam. Ive just taken delivery of my Triumph Rocket 3. In every way superior to any Harley ( Thats in my opinion having had both, but you'll never convince a Harley fan ) and cheaper as well. They carry a good selection of bikes and I cannot recommend the service highly enough. Only had the bike 2-1/2 weeks and put 3000km on her. Off to Krabi next week then off up to Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, Rai and the Issan and back,I Live in Chumphon. Stay upright

I'll definitely check them out. My father had a couple when I was a youngster, his last riding experience was on a Triumph, a drunk driver pushed him into a barbed wire fence, the bike faired better than he did. I always liked those bikes. How do the new ones compare with the older models? It would be nice to be able to load one in the back of the truck and haul it back to the Isaan.

Thanks so much!!!!

[ray23]

Another option is Red Barons in Bangkok, I have never purchased one from them but have heard good hings about them.. These days getting a new Honda or Yamaha really isn't that difficult.

A friend ordered a Yamaha 1100 dragstar froma shop her in Udon and had it within a month, with the book 480K. The book may take longer that is a real mess here. Gentle hint make sure they ar talking about them getting the book, wehn I say is a mess I'm not kidding.

I wanted the 1100, but the one I rode just didn't give me the comfort I was looking for, so I settled for less speed and less pain on the back. LOL

I miss the power but the back loves it.

[soic]

Another option is Red Barons in Bangkok, I have never purchased one from them but have heard good hings about them.. These days getting a new Honda or Yamaha really isn't that difficult.

A friend ordered a Yamaha 1100 dragstar froma shop her in Udon and had it within a month, with the book 480K. The book may take longer that is a real mess here. Gentle hint make sure they ar talking about them getting the book, wehn I say is a mess I'm not kidding.

I wanted the 1100, but the one I rode just didn't give me the comfort I was looking for, so I settled for less speed and less pain on the back. LOL

I miss the power but the back loves it.

I'll check them out as well. I won't have a lot of time as I'm sure that the wife won't let me drag her around to many bike shops. Do you have any websites that I can check out? She will have me in China town not long after arrival, we have to refill her shoe store everytime I come home.

[H2oDunc]

Soic here's a couple of pics of the bikes. The Triumphs are in the shop and are ready for delivery and the Virago is my old steed up for sale with book and all taxes etc for 140,000. Hope you find what you want. As for build, quality and riding They certainly beat the old ones. The new ones are reliable, dont use as much oil as gas, dont numb the bum and hands after a few miles due to vibration and handle well round the bends. I throw the rocket round and even get the footboards scraping. Enjoy what you get

[thedi]

Hello bikers,

I live 50 km SW of Khon Kaen. My bike is a Yamaha Royal Star (1300cc, V4). Right now I am in Switzerland, but I will return to Thailand on the 13. August and will then stay until end of January 2008

I would enjoy a ride with some other farangs from time to time. I am a rather slow rider (90-100 kmh) and enjoy good secondary roads with little traffic most. An old dream of mine is to visit this famous 'prasat hin' near Buriram. Maybe next autumn I will make it...

Regards

Thedi

[H2oDunc]

Why not check out the local bike club. Most areas have one. I joined Chumphon superbike club and found it great. You get to meet a lot of local bikers both local and farang and get to hear of all the meets and local ride outs. You also find out where to get a good service, parts and cheap local bikes.

[Tilapia]

Hello bikers,

I live 50 km SW of Khon Kaen. My bike is a Yamaha Royal Star (1300cc, V4). Right now I am in Switzerland, but I will return to Thailand on the 13. August and will then stay until end of January 2008

I would enjoy a ride with some other farangs from time to time. I am a rather slow rider (90-100 kmh) and enjoy good secondary roads with little traffic most. An old dream of mine is to visit this famous 'prasat hin' near Buriram. Maybe next autumn I will make it...

Regards

Thedi

Hello Thedi.

Royal Star 1300 is a nice bike, sounds good to, but 90-100km/h would put me in a early grave (or my arms in a cast) I drive a Suzuki GSX 1000 R. Anyway the place you would like to visit is very close to my place, so send me a PM when its time.

Regards

Tilapia.

[Tilapia]

I live in Non-Dindang in Buri-Ram, and I have just talked the wife into letting me look for a nice bike when I go home this time. I guess we'll be looking in Bangkok, anyone have a recommendation for a decent bike shop? I'd like a Harley, but I don't think that I could find any parts less than 5 hours from the house. I would settle for a Honda or Yamaha 1000 cc or above. Chopper would be a definite, the wife would never walk within a kilometer of a sport bike.

My hope is to get it now, and have it ready for my holiday trips home now, and for when I finally get to stay for good. I still work in Iraq, but hope to stay home soon, sometime this year if I'm lucky.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris

Hello Chris.

I had a few bikes over the last 7 years, and I got them from a small shop in Korat called "Korat racing-bike", I never had any major problems, he has been fair to me so far, and he do mostly choppers now, Harley as well.

Regards

Tilapia.

[Tilapia]

Thanks Tilapia

It's the left unfortunately. I can't even drive the bl**dy truck. It's a manual.

Not so sure about the comfort of choppers. I tend to feel long rides more on the cruiser. I done Chumphae to Ubon for the bike meet a couple of months ago on the XJR and that was a great trip. I felt a bit of discomfort on the way back but I think that was probably self induced!

Btw, never really rode bikes before moving here - think the climate lends itself. I used to do a lot of cycling in the UK and have always been happier on two wheels. I've worked my way up the ranks, Wave, Phantom etc. I know I don't need two but I can't bring myself to part with one. It's nice to have a choice sometimes.

Hi Tahaan.

Life sucks at times, but you will be up and around in no time. I agree about the cruiser, but I like the power and the handeling of the sports-bikes, it is something uniq, specially if you are able to drive them the way they are supposed to "Could be lethal in Thailand" but still, it is there I am, until I grow up or get my brain to work in the sensible way (not a big chance for that)

Regards

Tilapia.

[soic]

I live in Non-Dindang in Buri-Ram, and I have just talked the wife into letting me look for a nice bike when I go home this time. I guess we'll be looking in Bangkok, anyone have a recommendation for a decent bike shop? I'd like a Harley, but I don't think that I could find any parts less than 5 hours from the house. I would settle for a Honda or Yamaha 1000 cc or above. Chopper would be a definite, the wife would never walk within a kilometer of a sport bike.

My hope is to get it now, and have it ready for my holiday trips home now, and for when I finally get to stay for good. I still work in Iraq, but hope to stay home soon, sometime this year if I'm lucky.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris

Hello Chris.

I had a few bikes over the last 7 years, and I got them from a small shop in Korat called "Korat racing-bike", I never had any major problems, he has been fair to me so far, and he do mostly choppers now, Harley as well.

Regards

Tilapia.

I'll check them out as well, getting the wife to go to Korat isn't too difficult. I only get two weeks at home on this trip and the first few days are in BKK, so she'll be stingy with my time. I can't wait to get another bike. We've got two little ones now... Honda 125 and Kawasaki 112, they're just a tease. I was raised having bikes from the time I was 10 till now. I've owned, Hondas, Harleys, Suzuki's, Kaw's and Yamaha.

Thanks!

Chris

[tahaan]

A friend ordered a Yamaha 1100 dragstar froma  shop her in Udon and had it within a month, with the book 480K. The  book may take longer that is a real mess here. Gentle hint make sure  they ar talking about them getting the book, wehn I say is a mess I'm  not kidding.

Where's the shop in Udon? I need a few bits.

I had a look at some Triumphs last time in the UK. Can you buy a new one here with the same safeguards as you would a car? Plates, warranty, service support etc? The book and plate thing with imported bikes is a real hassle. I've bought bikes from both Thai and farang but I couldn't honestly recommend anyone. Is it possible to buy with confidence?

[tahaan]

Bugger! How do you work the quote thing?

IT and Leo aren't a good match!

[Tilapia]

A friend ordered a Yamaha 1100 dragstar froma  shop her in Udon and had it within a month, with the book 480K. The  book may take longer that is a real mess here. Gentle hint make sure  they ar talking about them getting the book, wehn I say is a mess I'm  not kidding.

Where's the shop in Udon? I need a few bits.

I had a look at some Triumphs last time in the UK. Can you buy a new one here with the same safeguards as you would a car? Plates, warranty, service support etc? The book and plate thing with imported bikes is a real hassle. I've bought bikes from both Thai and farang but I couldn't honestly recommend anyone. Is it possible to buy with confidence?

Hi Tahaan.

This is a problem, the book and the plates, most 2nd bikes there enter Thailand is imported as tractor parts, and is therefore not taxed, when you then have the bike put back together, then the questions arrive, what do I do now. Well, it cant be insured, so if you are in a accident, then you pay, provided that you survive ofcause. The police up-country is not a problem, they dont really care, but in Bkk and heavely tourist areas, then it's a different storie.

The only way to be sure, is to buy a brand new bike from a dealer, 2nd bikes will always be a problem, but it is possible to register them, when you pay the tax, but it would be an asset to know somebody on the inside.

Regards

Tilapia.

[Tilapia]

I live in Non-Dindang in Buri-Ram, and I have just talked the wife into letting me look for a nice bike when I go home this time. I guess we'll be looking in Bangkok, anyone have a recommendation for a decent bike shop? I'd like a Harley, but I don't think that I could find any parts less than 5 hours from the house. I would settle for a Honda or Yamaha 1000 cc or above. Chopper would be a definite, the wife would never walk within a kilometer of a sport bike.

My hope is to get it now, and have it ready for my holiday trips home now, and for when I finally get to stay for good. I still work in Iraq, but hope to stay home soon, sometime this year if I'm lucky.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris

Hello Chris.

I can ask him what he have in stock, and check some prices for you. I'm going up there today.

Tilapia.

[Thaicoon]

I am also in Buriram, back and forth to the UK, But i have 4 bikes, CBR900 Blade, V-Max, Custom Dragstar and a custom chopper i had built for shows, next trime i am in town i will postmark you, i am 4 KMs outside Buriram on the Surin Road.

Also, Khun Dan, from Krasang has a couple of bikes, but he now works in Bangers. there are a few guys in Buriram interested, Swedish Mike, he has a Steed 650.

[H2oDunc]

A friend ordered a Yamaha 1100 dragstar froma  shop her in Udon and had it within a month, with the book 480K. The  book may take longer that is a real mess here. Gentle hint make sure  they ar talking about them getting the book, wehn I say is a mess I'm  not kidding.

Where's the shop in Udon? I need a few bits.

I had a look at some Triumphs last time in the UK. Can you buy a new one here with the same safeguards as you would a car? Plates, warranty, service support etc? The book and plate thing with imported bikes is a real hassle. I've bought bikes from both Thai and farang but I couldn't honestly recommend anyone. Is it possible to buy with confidence?

Hi, I bought a brand new Triumph Rocket 3 with book, plate all import duties. 2 years warrenty and 2 years fully comprehensive insurance ( which is neigh on impossible to get here ) as well. They have also just sent 2 of their mechanics to Hinckley in the UK for 3 months to be trained on the correct maintenence procedures for the range of bikes they carry. The guy I dealt with in the shop was brilliant. He spoke excellent English, Answered questions and queries promptly via email and phone and unlike any Thai business Ive ever dealt with in my time here when he said I'll get it to you by a date or he would have an answer to a question he did. The bike was registered in my name with little fuss. The bike when it arrived was in first class condition and they even fitted my immobilisor / alarm and saddle bags at no cost. Having also avoided driving in BKK I had no idea how to get from the shop to the main highway south. No problem, the guy escorted me out of BKK till I was on the main rd and then peeled off and left me to enjoy my bike. The whole experience of buying the bike was painless from day 1. I cannot recommend the place highly enough. The wife is even looking to get a new Bonneville from them also. They can also get the whole range of extras for the bikes. Ive just ordered a screen for my Rocket and picked up my Triumph Jacket yesterday. Whatever you choose to get enjoy. Stay upright

[soic]

I live in Non-Dindang in Buri-Ram, and I have just talked the wife into letting me look for a nice bike when I go home this time. I guess we'll be looking in Bangkok, anyone have a recommendation for a decent bike shop? I'd like a Harley, but I don't think that I could find any parts less than 5 hours from the house. I would settle for a Honda or Yamaha 1000 cc or above. Chopper would be a definite, the wife would never walk within a kilometer of a sport bike.

My hope is to get it now, and have it ready for my holiday trips home now, and for when I finally get to stay for good. I still work in Iraq, but hope to stay home soon, sometime this year if I'm lucky.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris

Hello Chris.

I can ask him what he have in stock, and check some prices for you. I'm going up there today.

Tilapia.

Thanks Tilapia! I'd really appreciate it. I hope I can get something arranged. It's time to get back on a scoot again. The whole wind in my hair thing just doesn't get it on my Honda 125. I feel like a Hippo in tights trying to be a ballerina.

[Thumchok]

Another option is Red Barons in Bangkok, I have never purchased one from them but have heard good hings about them.. These days getting a new Honda or Yamaha really isn't that difficult.

A friend ordered a Yamaha 1100 dragstar froma shop her in Udon and had it within a month, with the book 480K. The book may take longer that is a real mess here. Gentle hint make sure they ar talking about them getting the book, wehn I say is a mess I'm not kidding.

I wanted the 1100, but the one I rode just didn't give me the comfort I was looking for, so I settled for less speed and less pain on the back. LOL

I miss the power but the back loves it.

I'll check them out as well. I won't have a lot of time as I'm sure that the wife won't let me drag her around to many bike shops. Do you have any websites that I can check out? She will have me in China town not long after arrival, we have to refill her shoe store everytime I come home.

www.redbaronbkk.com

I purchased a used bike off them about 10 months ago Honda CBR929RR . Only 3 months warranty , but they did fix any defects I found on it in that period without fuss .

Looking at buying a new R1 there when they get some more in stock . They also have a bit of a wrecking yard out the back , so they do have quite a selection of spare used parts for those interested .

[Tilapia]

I live in Non-Dindang in Buri-Ram, and I have just talked the wife into letting me look for a nice bike when I go home this time. I guess we'll be looking in Bangkok, anyone have a recommendation for a decent bike shop? I'd like a Harley, but I don't think that I could find any parts less than 5 hours from the house. I would settle for a Honda or Yamaha 1000 cc or above. Chopper would be a definite, the wife would never walk within a kilometer of a sport bike.

My hope is to get it now, and have it ready for my holiday trips home now, and for when I finally get to stay for good. I still work in Iraq, but hope to stay home soon, sometime this year if I'm lucky.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris

Hello Chris.

I can ask him what he have in stock, and check some prices for you. I'm going up there today.

Tilapia.

Thanks Tilapia! I'd really appreciate it. I hope I can get something arranged. It's time to get back on a scoot again. The whole wind in my hair thing just doesn't get it on my Honda 125. I feel like a Hippo in tights trying to be a ballerina.

Hi Chris.

He had the cheapest Harley I've seen here in Thailand, 430.000baht, and it dident look in a bad shape, I will get some more details with in the next few days, then I will send you a PM.

Regards.

Tilapia.