Any bikers on the board?
I've got a BMW GS and will be in Istanbul in August with it, so looking to do some ride outs etc.
Also quite like my mountain biking, so will be looking for some of this when I arrive 'properly' in 08 (quite unfit though!)

... and finally, does anyone know of the 4x4 scene in Istanbul?

Lots of questions in 1 I know, so appreciate your patience

Cheers

L

Yep, one here, GS also.

My new neighbour (another Brit) has also come out on his GS and there is one Varadero owner in the forum too. I think a VFR owner will be coming in Aug/Sept so we should be able to form an expat club.

Once you're here we'll get everyone together and plan a few rides, maybe a camping trip somewhere.

My neighbour and the guy coming in Aug are also into mountain biking, I'm not. No engine = no travel.

Not sure about the 4x4 scene, I think there are a few clubs but mostly Turkish.

I'm definitely coming on my GS in August, so if you're around...fancy a rideout? Myexact travel details still to be confirmed, but should be in Turkey between the 7th and 20th (possibly longer). PM me your telephone number and I'll give you a call when I'm there. (Will be staying in/near Ortakoy).

Still not sure what to do about re-biking myself when I'm out there. I'm obviously heeding the advice about not bringing mine out permantly, but am wary about the cost of buying another one.. and a car and everything else I'm currently looking at putting the bike into my Turkish Wifes name so she can import it (or a car) without import/customs hassles.

Any idea what the nearly new BMW bike market is like?

This link should give an idea of the used market. Just take off about 5-10% for the after discount price.

http://www.sahibinden.com/search.php?sKlasik=1&b[subcategories_also]=1&b[search_text]=&op[page]=1&b[auction_id]=&b[sort_field]=date&b[sort_order]=desc&c=3532&c=4950

If you can put yours in your wife's name it would be the best option.

My number: 0532 312 7234

Let me know when you are here. My office is very near Ortakoy.

David

Thanks for the link David. Interesting read...

Do you know if I am right in saying that a) the vehicle is in my wifes name, b) it has been for 6 months, c) it is imported within 6 months of arrival and d) it is less than 3 years old then there are no import charges? I've not seen anything anywhere that clarifies if she can bring in a car AND a bike like this...

Cheers

L

PS do you frequent ukgser.com?

Yeah, I am the mystery Vara owner, and I have Jeep CJ-5 too!

Off-road is very possible here, bring your truck in or buy one from here and I can show u!

Has she been living abroad?

Welcome

Is scootering included too ehuehuehue

wife's been abroad in the UK for 5 years now. Looking forward to August and meeting up with you "bikers" (don't worry, I'm not a hells angel or anything, fairly respectable, I think!)

And of course, Elisa, there is no shame in being a scooter rider ... well ok. maybe just a little!

I'm afraid that I really don't know the legal situation with importing bikes. If you are intending to be here for a long time I would suggest you buy one here as it will save a lot of headaches

Elifisa, scooters are fine, if a little slow. I hope you still wear bike clothing though.

Hello bikers,

I ride a cool Yamaha Virago 535... Im loving it
When will we have a ride?

HAVE A GRREAT WEEKEND

When ever you are ready... I will take a rope with me so we can pull you if needed!

Im at Şile now, so if you like ride curvy road I can show u around!

Thanks Jyrki,

Do you stay at Şile?

no, just having summerhouse there... I live in Istinye.

Ohh Istinye makes it easier to have a ride than ))
After I return from Sweden of course... on 13 Aug I'll b back...
Till then enjoyyy

See ya, enjoy Sweden!