Importing a motorbike?

[Fats25]

So I had the shipping company out yesterday, and he believes there is space in my 40ft container for my motorbike to be crated, and put inside, if I decide to bring it with me. I am just waiting on a price for crating from the shipping company to see if it is worthwhile or not.

As far as I can tell it will cost me 5% of bikes value, which is determined at customs in Dubai where they will give a valuation of the bike (I will have to bring proof of ownership, a valuation for depreciation, and will need to have my residents visa, passport, and appropriate driving licence).

Aside from that it all looks too easy! What am I missing here?

I am still undecided whether I will actually do this or not, and have the bike advertised for sale now (sure it is ok to post here, as is not likely anyone from Middle East Forum will want to purchase a UK bike!) http://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/motorbikes/... - but if it does not sell for what I want for it, I will either ship it, or lay it up in storage for when I return.

I suppose the other thing I need to look into, is how do I get back to UK if/when I decide to return...........

What do you guys think? Is it worth bringing with me? Or shall I just forget it, and get another bike when I get there?

I just know that when I arrive, that IanUAE or Chilli, or one of my other mates over there will try and get me on the track, and I will wish I had my bike with me!

[Fats25]

Chilli said:

Chris,
I'd bring it if the cost makes sense. I wished I bought mine as it might have given me more motivation to get out there. Still, work dependant, I'll get one soon.
I rarely see a 675 in the classifieds here. Plenty of R1's and GSXR1000's with 15 ft swing arms though. Neon''s optional..

I would get a valuation of approx £5k in UK from a Triumph dealer. If £5k - it will only cost me £250 to bring in...........

The risk is what they value at in Dubai!

I am definitely going to get a bike out there. Just not sure the 675R is the right bike......... I have it advertised on Ebay, and will see what interest I get before I go. If it sells for a good price I will start again when I get to Dubai. If not I will add it to the container (which will not be being packed until end of September) so I have some time.

[Fats25]

Chilli said:

675 is a cracking bike. What would you replace it with? I can't see me on anything other than a GSXR750.

Honestly - I would probably want 3 bikes (eventually):-

1) I can't see me living without a road bike, but don't think the Triumph is the bike for Dubai. I was thinking more lazy riding, occasional trips to the office, and then just weekend riding for fun out of town. Possibly a Troumph Scrambler, or maybe even move to the darkside and try a Harley.

2) The Triumph would work as a track bike, and I would get another one. However mine is too good for frequent track work. I would probably look to get a track ready bike instead.

3) Then a Dirt bike for the sand!

However I think I need to get there first, and evaluate all possibilities.

I also have a really good 3 bike trailer that will fit in the container. I am debating whether to bring that as well, as could be handy for bikes 2 and 3 above for transportation....... thoughts?

[Fats25]

IanUAE said:

I believe our ex-championship winning 675 could be bought for ~30K with loads of spares.

That is a good price!

Do you not ride on the track over there?

[Fats25]

Well the question has answered itself, as the bike sold today.....

Quite gutted to have sold it, as I loved that bike. However on the bright side I will be looking when I arrive to replace it, and that will be good!