The past three months are rapidly concluding with preparations nearly completed. This time, a trip to New Zealand will include the use of a motorcycle as my main form of transportation.

Airline ticket is purchased, accommodations for landing and departures are booked, Christmas accommodations are booked, passport updated, and yes, I bought a motorcycle.  A BMW 800GT, white, 2013 model and with just over 60,000 kilometres. So purdy.

My new ride!

Looking into options of accessing a bike for a timeframe of ten weeks, I found the lease or rental cost was in excess of $180 NZ per day.  Soooooo….. for less than the cost of renting, I purchased a bike from the dealership who will purchase and resell the bike once I have completed the travel. Negotiations are challenging when purchasing a bike unseen. Then add communication via email, and challenges in being specific on details, and wow and my patience skills are improving. However, a deposit has been made and the bike is in storage until my arrival.

The next step has been the purchase of a kickstand extender, (which I have already shipped), and fog lights (already purchased via Adredelin Cycles) and will be carried on the plane.

That’s the good news.  Now for the not so good.  New Zealand has been hit with two major earthquakes in the past week or so.  Many of my planned routes are closed due to flooding or landslides, as well as the odd buckle in the road.  The south island may not be available for riding, so stay tuned.  Tomorrow to Vancouver, and then a 14 hour flight to Auckland.

Yahoo! This is going to happen!