Buying in Japan and driving to UK

[Real_vibes]

Hi all

First post and the start of an adventure.

I’m building up to a big trip in 2022 and i’m looking for advice.

My dream is to fly to Japan where I will buy a DR350 and ride it home to the UK.



Anyway, so what I need to start to get my head around and plan for is what the legal ramifications of doing this are?

- can I buy a bike in Japan, register it somewhere, insure it and drive it half way around the world?
- will I have an issue at every boarder? Or if the paperwork is legit will it be fine?

If anyone has any advice - i’d Love to start to digest it.

Many thanks

Laurie

[SteveW]

Hi Laurie,

Welcome and that's an epic trip you've got in mind.
I can't offer any advice, because that kind of adventure is beyond my experience!
But I'd be interested to know why you've picked a DR350.
I'd say it wouldn't be a bad choice, but it would be a pretty old bike and would need some preparation and checking over before you set off. Have you got bush mechanic skills?
If it was me I'd go for one of those new CRF 250 Rally's, I assume they're available in Japan. Spares shouldn't be too much of a problem on route if needed.
You could get the supplying dealer to fit some off the shelf touring kit.
But that's just me......I'm only a billy-basic when it comes to fixing crocked bikes.

[Real_vibes]

The plan is to ride with a buddy who has spannering skills. We’ll both ride the same bikes. He’s travelled from canada to Patagonia on a DR650 and it’s on his advice really.

My experience is mainly Enduro. I’ve ridden in Asia (Thailand, Veitnam and Cambodia).

Together we want to bite off more than we can chew and get deep in an adventure.

I’ve got native contacts (+ family) in Japan and China to support with the first leg.

But i’m Looking for some seasoned advice before I start engaging them for support on the ground.

[Real_vibes]

Presently working my way through this (it certainly seems we’re not the first to have this desire).

http://www.tokyotolondon.com

[Richard Simpson Mark II]

This might be of interest

https://www.tutorochainoiler.com/pages/user-reviews

[Benson-1215]

Good luck have a look at Horizons Unlimited for info and members who can help you on your epic trip.
Will look forward to the film book and RR,

[Venusian]

Presently working my way through this (it certainly seems we’re not the first to have this desire).

http://www.tokyotolondon.com

That was a great read, thanks for the link!