Copper Canyon

Copper Canyon, Mexico
(scroll to the bottom for photos)

For the last several years, a growing group of two-wheelers has left the confines of the U.S. for Mexico after the conclusion of "Ride The Rio". What started as a group of two or three riders in 1998 has grown to a group of 10-15 for the past several years.

This trip is completely and totally not associated with "Ride The Rio", nor do the organizers of "Ride The Rio" claim to be experts in the fields of border crossings or traveling in Mexico. However, after saying that, we can add that we have learned a thing or two about traveling south of the border. And we can say that heading into Mexico after RTR is a fantastic way to lengthen your time away from home while on your motorcycle!

First, Mexico is beautiful! If you like the Texas side of the Big Bend, then you will love the Mexican side! The roads are wonderful! Shortly after leaving the Rio Grande, as you head south from Texas, you will cross mountains and enjoy a wonderful ride! Northern Mexico is desolate, unpopulated, and beautiful. The roads range from excellent to poor; mountainous to flat, and you should be prepared for it all.

Second, there are things you MUST do to make the border crossing, and things you MUST and SHOULD have in your possession. To cross the border into interior Mexico, you:

	Must have proof of U.S. citizenry (original birth certificate, passport, voter registration card - no copies will be accepted).
	Must have proof of ownership of your vehicle. This means you must have the title in your possession or you must have a notarized note of permission from the lien holder and it must cover the dates you plan to be in Mexico. Those of you on borrowed bikes or without the proper papers are just asking for trouble.
	Should have is Mexican liability insurance, though this is not mandatory. Your current insurance is invalid in Mexico unless you have a specific insurance rider to cover such. Mexican insurance can be purchased at the border, and it can also be purchased at various AAA outlets (this is not a problem in Texas, but may be a problem in your area). If you plan to purchase insurance at the border, remember that you will be crossing early Sunday morning and insurance vendors may not be open at that time.
	MUST NOT carry firearms into Mexico. This is a jailable offense! If you take guns into Mexico you will be caught and you will go to jail.
	Must be prepared. Not only will you inconvenience yourself if you are unprepared, you will inconvenience the riders with you.
	Should not be nervous or scared. Border stories of banditos and Mexican jails are real and should be considered. However, a trip into Mexico on your motorcycle can be wonderful! Be cautious, be aware, be prepared, don't be stupid and check here for the latest from the U.S. State Department and here for the latest travel warnings.
	Must have a credit card for entry into Mexico for entry fees. It can also be used at ATMs for pesos.
	Should have good maps. A good place to get free maps is www.maps-of-mexico.com.
	Should have a tire repair kit. Mini air compressors are also recommended. Flats are not uncommon in Mexico, and the ability to fix your own flat should be considered a necessity for Mexico touring.

Questions? Email Tim Vipond.