Newbee in Vietnam

[BMWPaulVietnam]

Hi Guys,

Have a R1150R (05) 16,00 miles here in Saigon Vietnam. It came from the police after being illegally imported and spent 2 to 3 years in warehouse. Fantastic bike! Not many, if any, BM's here. Get the "They makes bikes also" a lot!

Had a Yamaha Silverado 1,760cc before but one could not use it on the roads here.There are about 40 Million bikes in Vietnam and I guess about 7 or 8 Million of them on the narrow streets in Saigon. Riding here is - let's say - hectic!

97% of the bikes are less than 175cc and mostly scooters - but everyone drives at full throttle - all the time! For the other 3% - Harley and Ducati has made big market inroads amongst the wealthy kids.

There is no BMW dealer or service agent here but I found a very knowledgeable mechanic (actually a qualified mechanical engineer) - so service is not a problem (so far).

Plan to get rid of the catalytic converter and put on a new pipe. Main reason is not (only) for some gurgling sound but safety. The louder bikes get more respect here and no emission or noise control here!

Well nice to be part of the R1150R enthusiasts!

[carl1957]

There's a bumper sticker.... "Loud pipes get respect in Vietnam"

Welcome to the forum!

[riceburner]

From memory - the ONLY way to ride a 50cc scooter is FULL THROTTLE!