312 MOTORCYCLING
Motorcycling.......................................................................................
Riding a motorcycle across Colombia is an amazing way to see the country. Road
conditions vary, but if you stay on the main routes you'll have an enjoyable ride.
Large motorcycles are uncommon in most of Colombia, but there are many in
bigger cities, where services can be found for large bikes.
The risks of riding in Colombia can be reduced greatly if caution is used at all
times. Animals, reckless drivers, dangerous buses, trucks and bad road
conditions are found throughout the country. Riding a big motorcycle in big
cities can be challenging. Riders must always keep their motorcycles secured
overnight in safe parking lots, which can be found in all cities. Motorcyclists must
inspect the parking lots and judge security practices themselves to make proper
decisions. Large motorcycles are generally safe from theft, since they are so
uncommon. Thieves would have a difficult time hiding or selling a stolen large
motorcycle. At the same time motorcyclists must make sure their gear and
equipment is secured and monitored frequently if they are not in a secure
location.
Mechanics can be found all over Colombia. It's better to find a mechanic who
works out of an organized and efficient shop. Many mechanics have little
experience with larger bikes, but are good at trouble shooting simple problems.
A certification called Auteco is used to designate shops of higher standards.