A group of nine bikers embarked on a remarkable journey from Downing Street in Penang, Malaysia to Downing Street in London, covering 18,290 km over 4 months, 11 days, and 6 hours on 125cc motorcycles. The ride, undertaken by older bikers, involved crossing various challenging terrains and managing mechanical issues, ultimately culminating in a successful arrival in London. The journey showcased their determination and the capabilities of their chosen motorcycles, proving that adventure can be achieved with less conventional means and on a modest budget.

1. 24 Countries,18,290 KM, 4Mth 11days & 6 3/4 hrs

2. An Ultimate journey to ride to London started
when Mr BK Lim wanted to full fill his dream of a
lifetime, ie
'To ride to London Downing St. from Downing St.
Penang on just a small CC Motorbike’.
24 Countries,18,290 KM, 4Mth 11days & 6 3/4 hrs
A husband & wife couple heard
of this and wanted to join the
ride too. Mr BK. Lim then
invited one of his Biker friend
and myself for a planning
meeting at Touratech.

3. Later another Biker was interested and called 2 more of his friend
to tag along too.
The group
grew from 8
to 9 with a
very elderly
Biker joining
to support
Mr BK Lim.
24 Countries,18,290 KM, 4Mth 11days & 6 3/4 hrs

4. The PLAN. 20,000 KMs, 6 mths, and RM15K for the journey.

5. Touraride-Downing-St-Penang-to-London
https://www.facebook.com/Touraride-Downing-St-Penang-to-London-
392640874248837/

6. Community Home > Metro > Community
Tuesday, 22 September 2015
Bikers finally reach Downing Street, London
We finally made it to Downing Street, London, after travelling from
Downing Street in Penang on our little 125cc Motorcycles.
(From left to right)
Eric Lim, Team
Capt. B.K. Lim &
Timothy Wooi

7. IT WAS a dream accomplished on a road least travelled, using
motorbikes least thought of, with the least budget and crossing
terrain least desirable.
Karakorum Highway, (KKH) World highest &
most dangerous highway linking
Pakistan & China at 4,795
Meters ASL.
Bikers finally reach Downing Street, London

8. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=392640874248837&ref=br_rs
The dream of a lifetime on 2 Wheels
The 3 Riders that made it to Downing Street London, at the hour of
three quarter pass six, on the day of 20th Sept. in the year 2015

9. That is how three Penang nites who straddled humble 125cc
motorcycles described their journey from Downing St., George Town
to Downing Street in London.
“Total land distance rolled over was 18,290km, burning 365.8 liters of petrol
ranging from RON80 to RON96”.
Bikers finally reach Downing Street, London

10. boats, the team had crossed about 40,000 Kilo Meters.
Total fuel cost of was RM1,825,” the team’s tech man Timothy Wooi
added on their Face book page. Including their trips on ferries and
Bikers finally reach Downing Street, London

11. They announced on their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Touraride-Downing-St-Penang-to-London-
392640874248837/ that they arrived at 1.45am Malaysian
time (6.45pm in London) after travelling 4 months, 11
days, 6 hours and 45 minutes.
Bikers finally reach Downing Street, London

12. Upon reaching India, 5
members decided to ride
on their own leaving only
4 with Team Capt, BK Lim.
Originally, 9 scooted off from Penang on 9May 2015. 3 members
however rode ahead leaving only six members reaching Alor Star.
Bikers finally reach Downing Street, London

13. On reaching Europe, the most senior
member, Frankie Cheah, 69, fall sick and
was advised by Doctors to return home.
Only team captain B.K. Lim, Tim and Eric
finished the ride.
The 4 members, Eric Lim, Frankie Cheah & Timothy Wooi led by
Team Capt. BK Lim carry on the journey from India.

14. The Bike least thought of - a test of Faith and Hope
The ‘perfect bike’ such as comfort, fuel range, reliability, off-on
road handling, spares, maintainability, ease of service, air-cooled
vs liquid-cooled, EFI vs Carbs, Japanese made vs European is
always personal.

15. In choosing a bike, consider 3 key factors together – i. the bike, ii.
the rider’s skill and iii. the terrain the bike will be used. The bike
itself cannot be considered alone in isolation.
Bike Choice -The 3R’s Robust, Reliable & Repairable.
Any bike can do it.
The most important
ingredient of all is the
Rider’s attitude.
“You can have an
adventure on any bike
as long as your attitude
is right”

16. The Bike after some Innovation & customization

17. Team Capt chose a Honda Cub Model: Wave 125S,Year: 2007-2009,
only available used at time of Purchase.
The Bike, a Japan made, 125 cc, Auto clutch Cub
This model conformed to the 3R’s
for Motorbike Touring.
Reliable, Repairable and Robust.
Why this model?
This small capacity?
and not a new one?

18. The Bike after some Innovation & customization
This model, was the 1st above 100cc Cub made in Japan, designed
from a workhorse with proven robust chassis & engine.
It went through many improvements
& innovations whilst maintaining its
built Quality of a ‘low maintenance
work-horse’.
This model was also engineered
for long distance travelling than that
of a City work- horse.

19. This model is light, easy to handle with good fuel efficiency and
economy of 50-55 Kilometers per liter fully loaded.
The Bike, a Japan made, 125 cc, Auto clutch Cub
Spare parts are not expensive and available almost everywhere.
Almost any Bike Mechanic knows
how to repair this Bike.

20. The Bike Preparation
Establish a baseline.
Access the condition of
Bike from the chassis
to the Engine.
Restore all worn out parts including
non stock parts, back to Stock
configuration with genuine parts

21. 1st Thing 1st- Restore to Stock Configuration
Replace both the front & rear Sprockets & Chain to an
Original Japan made or equivalent Quality.
Choose the best Quality
Sports Rim (Thick Inner
Housing Wall)

22. A Chain Guard is a must
to keep dirt & grit away
to reduce wear & tear.
Replace the drive train
with a new set of
Sprockets & a good
Quality Chain. We use
DID from Japan.
Replace the existing Wheel Bearing to a
good quality Sealed Bearing. We use
NIACHI from Japan.
1st Thing 1st- Restore to Stock Configuration

23. Bukhara, Replaced Fork Seal
Access the Oil Seal
and Oil level of the
Front Shock
Absorber.
Replace the Fork Oil &
change the Oil Seal to stock
configuration.
1st Thing 1st- Restore to Stock Configuration

24. Innovation & Customization
Cut out on Seat for easy Fuel refill without having to remove
Luggage to flip up the Seat.
Have at least a
Spare 4 -5 liter
Fuel Tank

25. Innovation & Customization
A Wind Shield to divert wind and rain to keep you dry and
warm & reduce wind pressure on chest.
A collapsible Pannier Rack for
Luggage, Spare Fuel tank and
Cooking Utensils.

26. Innovation & Customization
Power Supply Outlet & a 12V-230V, 100W Inverter
Good for using Electric Pump & Inverter for Laptop &
Camera battery charging.
Consider
hooking another
piece of battery,
parallel to the
existing one.

27. Innovation & Customization
Handle bar Guard, a must to prevent Brake Lever
breakage during a fall.
It also protect &
keep your hands
warm from the chill
wind & rain.

28. Tools and spares planning are very critical. This is to handle
breakdown and do maintenance of wear & tear Parts along the
journey.
Tools and Spares Customization & Innovation
Tools were
innovated to
combine as a Multi
piece to save weight
without sacrificing
functionality.

29. Tools and Spares Customization & Innovation
We brought only 3 Electrical
Spares.
1.CDI Unit
2. Spark Plug HT Coil
3. Magnet Coil / Generator Coil.
We use Dunlop TT100 Tubeless
Tire, as Dunlop guarantee
18-20,000 km.
We brought only 1 pc of Inner
Tube as back up.
Spares- selected based on statistics of breakdown frequency.

30. Puncture repair tools & road repair knowledge.
Every member is required to learn
and practice a Puncture repair
using a Puncture Repair Kit
before the actual journey.
A good quality Electric Pump with its
outer casing removed maintaining
only the the pump to reduce space
and weight was innovated for the
journey.
A manual hand pump as a secondary back up is also put in plan.
Tools and Spares Customization & Innovation

31. Tools and Spares Customization & Innovation
Along our journey, we had about 10 punctures, one on top of
the mountain of Albania,..
and this little
pump did its job
well without
failing us when
compressed air
is needed.

32. Innovation, Customization & Accessories
Foldable Solar Panel- a luxury but not compulsory.
I brought along a 12V, 10 watts unit and use it for charging my
20,000mAH Power Bank to power all the Gadgets including Lights
& a Mini Fan.
My bike was fitted with 2 Batteries. I charge my Laptop
from this battery via a 100W DC-AC Converter.

33. The Bike after some Innovation & customization

34. Bukhara, repair Bike at Hayot’s
friend workshop
Plan Route for Visa application to various Countries

35. Plan Route for Visa application to various Countries

36. Plan Route for Visa application to various Countries

37. Plan Route for Visa application to various Countries

38. Carnet application based on planned Route
Motorbike Carnet can be applied through AAM Malaysia, submitting below
documents. You have to be an AAM member to apply for an International
Driving and the Carnet application. 20 pages Carnet fee is RM500 as of 2015.

39. China Visa Application – You will need; i. Photo of Bike, ii. Driving License
& iii. Registration Card for Bike.

40. Visa Application based on planned Route
Visa application at India Embassy & Yellow Fever Vaccination at Downing Street.

41. Visa Application based on planned Route

42. Photo session at Penang with Family & Friends before Flag off. May2015

43. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Friends & Support at Penang before Flag Off 9th May2015

44. Press Conference with Press before Flag off. May2015

45. Media, News & Articles Write-ups May2015
IT WAS a dream accomplished on a road least travelled,
using motorbikes least thought off, with the least
budget and crossing terrain least desirable.
That is how three Penangites who straddled humble
125cc motorcycles described their journey from
Downing Street in George Town to Downing Street in
London.
They announced on their Facebook page that they
arrived yesterday at 1.45am Malaysian time (6.45pm in
London) after travelling four months, 11 days, eight
hours and 45 minutes.
“Total land distance rolled over was 18,290km, burning
365.8 litres of petrol ranging from RON80 to RON96
with a total fuel cost of RM1,825,” the team’s tech man
Timothy Wooi added on their Facebook page. Including
their trips on ferries and passenger ships, however, the
team had crossed about 40,000km.

46. Media, News & Articles Write-ups May2015
GEORGE TOWN: Nine old buddies are going for
the ride of their lives on easy-to-repair 125cc
four-stroke motorcycles. All aged between 52 and
69 will traverse the Silk Road from Downing
Street here to Downing Street in London.
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2015
/05/10/nine-going-on-the-ride-of-their-lives-old-
buddies-trip-to-take-them-from-downing-street-
in-penang-to/#cpVOAuVAMt6UROh4.99

47. Media, News & Articles Write-ups May2015

48. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Flag off Penang Downing Street to Kepala Batas & Sungai Petani. 9th May 2015

49. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Bidding good bye to Family members . 9th May 2015

50. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Family Support before leaving 9th May2015
A Scroll of blessing & Protection was
given to be taken along the way ad
passed it to a Pastor at a London Church.
Only 6 Riders were here for the blessings
as the other 3 Riders had rode ahead on
their own to meet up at Thailand.
Prayer of Blessings from a Pastor at TBC, Alor Star

51. The 1st Two Countries after Malaysia, Thailand & India

52. Media Coverage at TV Thailand. 9May2015
We were spotted on the road
approaching our Hotel by TV
Thai Personnel.
They followed us to the Hotel
for an Interview.

53. Media Coverage at TV Thailand. 9May2015

54. Thai Traffic Police escort out of Hatyai City. 10May2015
After the media Coverage, Thai
Traffic Police came the next day to
escort us out of Hatyai City leading
to the Highway.

55. Hatyai to Phatalung, 1st Breakdown 10May2015
Waiting for ‘Out of sight Rider’
Frankie nearing Pathallung,
Thailand.
After 15 minutes, Team Capt BK
Lim backtracked to locate Rider.

56. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
1st Mechanical Breakdown at Pathallung on a Sunday Weekend
Frankie’s Bike.
Clutch Spring which was modified
(upon purchase) without his
knowledge, caused the Clutch
Housing to break upon climbing a
terrain towards Pathallung

57. Sponsor from Honda, Samut Sakon, Thailand.
15May2015, We were spotted at
Samut Sakon by Honda Thailand.
They approached us and
sponsored us each, 3 sets of T
Shirts, 2 Cans of Lub Oil as well as
serviced our Bikes Free of Charge.

58. Re categorizing from ‘Normal’ to ‘Dangerous’ Goods for Air freight, Thailand to India
Finally we managed to Air-ship our
Bikes to New Delhi after completing
all the necessary.

59. Transport from Samut Sakhorn to Air Cargo
Unable to ride through Myanmar in
May 2015 due to Political Unrest

60. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
India, Retrieval of Bikes & Customs Red Tapes
Stranded in India at AAM Upper
India to retrieve our Bikes from
Custom House. Red Tapes! We
lost our Carnet in one of our trips
to AAUI. Resend another copy
from AAM Malaysia. June 2015

61. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
India, Lost Carnet May 23 May-12 Jun 20150
Received our 2nd Copy of Carnet
from AAM Malaysia. June 2015.
Many tks to Dallan Cheah for
helping to courier it from
Malaysia. Another Cost!

62. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
India, Ajanta Hotel after 18 days -13 Jun2015
Finally our Bikes were released
after 18 days on the 13 Jun2015.
We had to stay at Ajanta Hotel
and I trained its staff on Lean
Hospitality for a discount on our
Hotel Bills.

63. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Engage Guide from New Delhi to NH1 Highway
Road from New Delhi leading
to NH1 Highway
End of Guide service leading
into to NH1 Highway

64. The 5 Riders left the team and rode on their own
This is the traffic along
NH1 Phagwara Highway,
New Delhi.

65. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
1st Meal along NH1 Highway, Phagwara
The 4 Riders that remained
in a team from day 1 till
New Delhi-Phagwara.

66. The Tragedy! New Delhi-Phagwara.
The Tragedy at New Delhi-
Phagwara.
When we reached the spot,
the Rider were already
brought to the Hospital

67. To the Hospital, New Delhi, India, June 2015
Body was already
prepared for the
Mortuary, upon our
arrival at Phagwara,
India June 2015

68. Next 3rd to 4th country, Pakistan to China

69. 3rd Country, Pakistan 15 Jun 2015
Met Hassan at Lahore who saw us
on the way and followed us to our
Hotel to meet up. He was so
hospitable, invited us to his home
and helped us to get a SIM Card.

70. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Riding through Lahore, Pakistan, 15 Jun 2015
Passport ,Visa
Inspection each time
you enter a State.
Pakistan State border crossing

71. Confluence of Indus
River
Leading to the World’s highest & Dangerous Highway.
Assisting a stranded
Biker along the way.
Confluence of Indus
River with security
Border Inspection.

72. Karakorum Highway via Khunjerab Pass
Karakorum Highway, (KKH) stretches 1300 KM
linking Pakistan & China
at 4,795 Meters ASL.
Also known as ‘8 Wonders of the
World’, an experience many
Bikers dream of.

73. The Road less travelled, all about Hope & Faith
A Zero Defect Journey to make
it through!
Attabad Lake crossingTemp at coldest, 5 deg C with snow
Along Karakorum Highway,
you really need full
concentration & alertness
to ride this stretch.

74. 22 June 2015, Gilgit to Hunza passing, Karakorum Highway
Our shower & meals
along along Gilgit
Hunza, Karakoram High
way.

75. The Road less travelled, Pakistan to China via Karakorum
A Zero Defect Journey to make
it through!

76. The Road less travelled, Pakistan to China via Karakorum
A Zero Defect Journey to make
it through!

77. Old Silk road of Karakorum Highway
This is the famous Old Silk
Road used to trade Silk on
horses and later Land Rover.
We made it with our little 125
cc secondhand scooters.

78. Khunjerab Pass border crossing, Pakistan-China 24Jun2015

79. Khunjerab Pass, Sust Immigration, Pakistan 24Jun2015

80. Khunjerab Pass, Pakistan to Toshugan, China. 24Jun2015
Marco Polo Inn, Hunza to
Khunjerab Pass (highest border
pass in the world at 4,700 meters
above sea level) through KKH
linking Pakistan and Kashagan in
province of Xinjiang, China.

81. Khunjerab Pass, Pakistan to Toshugan, China. 24Jun2015
Stopping for a rest deciding
whether or not to continue to
ride till China border through
rain and chill snow wind.

82. Khunjerab Pass, Pakistan to Toshugan, China. 24Jun2015
This is one of the most
challenging ride to Kashugan.
We have to ride through 120 km
of rain and chill snow wind from
Khunjerab pass onwards.

83. 4th Country Pakistan to China, 24Jun2015
Approaching Custom House,
Toshugan after 2 hrs Inspection
at Peak of Khunjerab Pass,
China. Cold & Hungry.

84. Khunjerab Pass, Pakistan to Kashagan, China. 24Jun2015
Hungry with only breakfast and its
getting late evening with poor visibility.
We just have to ride on, reaching the
checkpoint at night, wet, trembling cold,
hungry, drained and exhausted. —

85. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Rode 140KM to Immigration
at Xing Xiang, Kashugan,
China after our Passports we
taken by Officials. It was here,
our Tour guide met us up.
4th Country Pakistan to China, 24Jun2015

86. 4th Country China, 25Jun2015
Riding Kashugan to Kashgar, China with our Tour guide, Taher.
Tour guide: Kashgar Adventures.
Rate: 800USD/bike / person
Duration: 5 days riding through China.
Packages: Hotels along the way,
Breakfast,
Customs & Police Security
Handling Red tapes
along the way.
Email: kashgaradvantour@hotmail.com
Contact: Mr Taher 13279717711

87. Kashugan to Kashgar, China with guide, Kashgar Adventour.
The 1st 250KM from Kashugan to
Kashgar was under repair. It was
raining wet with chilled wind.
We hired a lorry to transport our
Bikes separately and the Tour
Guide took us on his Car.
250 km stretch of road under construction, Kashugan, Xinjiang

88. 250 km stretch of road under construction, Kashugan, Xinjiang
Some Nomads living along
Kashugan/Kashgar in Xinjiang.
Stop for our pee along this
stretch, Xinjiang. 25Jun2015

89. To Border of Kashugan to Kashgar, Xinjiang
Groceries Stalls near Border of
Kashugan to Kashgar, Xinjiang.
Entering better road towards
Kashgar, Xinjiang.
Inspection Post at exit of
Kashugan to Kashgar.

90. Kashgar town, Xinjiang, China. 25Jun2015
This little Kashgan girl at China was
caught drinking water in a plastic
tube filled up from a water hose
after his brother finished drinking
the sweetened drink in it.

91. Our Meal stop, Kashgar town, Xinjiang, China

92. Our Lunch at Kashgar town, Xinjiang, China
Having a nice feast of BBQ
Mountain Goat with Noodles
& Hot Chinese Tea!

93. Checking in to a Hotel from a Guided Tour Package

94. 5th to 7th Country, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan

95. Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan & Tukmenistan (25d)
Irkeshtem,
Kyrgyzstan Sary-Tash 70 1 Wednesday, 24 June, 2015
Sary-Tash Osh 183 2 Friday, 26 June, 2015
Osh Jalal-Abad 103 2 Sunday, 28 June, 2015
Jalal-Abad Kochkor 397 5 Friday, 3 July, 2015
Kochkor bishkek 393 5 Wednesday, 8 July, 2015
bishkek Torkent 83 1 Thursday, 9 July, 2015
Torkent Churst, Uzbekistan 276 2 Saturday, 11 July, 2015
Churst,
Uzbekistan Agren 138 2 Monday, 13 July, 2015
Agren Tashkent 112 5 Saturday, 18 July, 2015
Tashkent Samarkand 303 2 Monday, 20 July, 2015
Samarkand Bukhara 256 2 Wednesday, 22 July, 2015
Bukhara Mary 383 3 Saturday, 25 July, 2015
Mary
Ashgabat,
Turkmenistan 365 3 Tuesday, 28 July, 2015
Ashgabat,
Turkmenistan Turkmenbashi 578 5 Sunday, 2 August, 2015

96. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
5th Country, Kyrgyzstan, 28th Jun2015
Our 1st Hotel at Kyrgyzstan after
leaving China. Look at the Green
Toilet, where’s the door? Where
to dispose the Toilet paper?
Dare to Poo?

97. 1st Sept. Albania 5:20pm
Kyrgyzstan, 28th Jun2015
Nomads Village along Pamir
Highway though China &
Kyrgyztan. We went to check
out and was served lunch &
invited to stay.

98. 6th Country, Uzbekistan, Jizzax 5 July2015
At Jizzax, Uzbekistan, we met
Jehovir, a waiter at an Eatery in
town. He talked to us and
recommended us to stay at his
home in the Village along our way.

99. Jevohir invited us to stay at his
house whereby his Dad, a Dentist
also runs a homestay here. They
cooked us a feast and we paid
them according to a Hotel rate.
Uzbekistan, Jizzax 5 July2015

100. Uzbekistan ,Left Jizzax for
Samarkand. Here they only
accept Local currency-Som.
Went to a bank, met a Teacher
who helped us to a Money
changer, 1 USD = 44 Som
6th Country, Uzbekistan, Samarkand 5Jul2015

101. Uzbekistan, Samarkand 5Jul2015
At Samarkhan town looking for
a proper meal after changing
some local currency-Som.
Our 1st meal here, 125
Uzbekistani soʻm (USD 2.9)

102. Along Samarkand to Bukhara, we
rode on semi paved road and
Frankie’s Bike front rear Wheel
Bearing broke as he did not
managed to change to a Nichi brand
in time upon leaving Malaysia.
Uzbekistan, Samarkhan to Bukhara 5Jul2015

103. Stop by along Samarkand to
Bukhara, for Lunch as one of the
Bike’s Wheel Bearing broke.
Later we were spotted by a good
Samaritan to render help.
Uzbekistan, Samarkhan to Bukhara 5Jul2015

104. Hayot, an Off road Biker
saw us at Bukhara and
invited us to his friend’s
workshop to replace the
broken Wheel Bearing.
Uzbekistan, Samarkhan to Bukhara 5Jul2015

105. Bukhara. We serviced our Bike
& repaired what is broken at
Hayot’s friend shop, I replaced
my broken Fork Seal. Had my
front Fork leaking oil at Iran.
Uzbekistan, Samarkhan to Bukhara 5Jul2015

106. After the repair at Hayot’s
friend shop, they do not
want to receive payment so
we treated them to a good
meal and became facebook
friends
Usbekistan, Samarkhan to Bukhara 5Jul2015

107. UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Tashkent 8Jul2015
Here in Uzbekistan, theres no
limit to what you can carry on
top of your Car as long as your
roof don’t Crumple!

108. UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Toshkent 8Jul2015
Did 250 km from Andijon to Toshkent. Will be here till 20
July as we ere ahead of schedule to enter Turkmenistan

109. UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Tashkent 8Jul2015

110. UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Tashkent 8Jul2015
Looking for Fuel. In Uzbeskistan, only RON80 fuel is available as
RON91-95 were either not available or always no stock.
We started with 91/80 mix and gradualy use all RON 80. RON 80 smell
like Kerosene!. Thank God for Discovery Fuel Booster installed on our
Bikes. We have no issues even climbing Hills

111. UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Toshkent 8Jul2015
Our Lunch stop midway to
Toshkent.
Watermelon or winter melon.
No meat so as not to be sleepy.

112. Entered the city and bought a
Tourist SIM, had a proper meal
and scouted for a budget
accommodation.
UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Toshkent 8Jul2015

113. Googled and located Mirzo
Guest house. Met a Vietnamese
Cyclist couple. Cooked our
meals & washed our clothings.
UZBESKITAN, Andijon to Toshkent 9Jul2015

114. Turkmenistan, 5 days Visa,
800 plus km, Our 1st Hotel at
15 Euro. We rode till late
evening everyday. Managed to
reach exit border within 4 days.
7th Country, Turkmenistan, 23 Jul 2015

115. 7th Country, Turkmenistan, 23 Jul 2015
With a 5 days Visa, 800 plus km
and with this road condition, you
either Leave or Police!
There’s nothing along this stretch
across dessert land until we
spotted a….

116. We went to check the place
where Lorries parked and
discovered an Eatery. We
had a good Lunch cum
Dinner.
Turkmenistan, 23 Jul 2015

117. We replenish our Water
mid way as it was so hot
and dry. Saw a Fresh
Bakery midway and stop
by for a Nan meal.
Turkmenistan, 23 Jul 2015

118. At Turkmenistan, you can see people alongside the road waving
at passerby with hand gesture.
Met a stranded Biker towards reaching town. Stop by to share
our Fuel for him to return home.
Turkmenistan, 23 Jul 2015

119. Next 8th to 10th Countries, Iran, Turkey & Greece

120. 24Jul2015.
Left Turkmenistan early in the
morning and rode the dessert
heading to Iran.
Next 8th to 10th Countries, Iran, Turkey & Greece

121. Next 8th to 10th Countries, Iran, Turkey & Greece
Riding Turkmenistan to Iran on a used, 9 year old Motorbike with only
125cc , climbing hills with 35 kg luggage and a spare 5 liters fuel as
back up is very challenging. No mechanic shops, no support truck and
no spare tyres brought along.

122. There's nothing on the left and right along the stretch except dry
barren Sandune hills. Temp. was 40 plus drying your face!. With TPM
(Total Productive Maintenance), we made it though with our little bike
without any problems. A real test of Faith trusting in God.
Next 8th to 10th Countries, Iran, Turkey & Greece

123. 8th Country, Iran, 25Jul- 4Aug 2015
1st Hotel, Baggiran to
Qurcan, Military Police run
1st Bike Problem,
Fuel & Electrical

124. 8th Country, Iran, 25Jul- 4Aug 2015
Our Fruit Lunch
after breakfast at
the Military hotel
before hitting the
road!

125. The temp. along the Sandune
Dessert rose to 46deg C.
Its like blowing a hair dryer to
your face. Even the roads
cracked
8th Country, Iran, 25Jul- 4Aug 2015

126. Aug 2015
Entered Tehran, the city of
Iran and saw an Ice Cream
Restaurant, went in for a
treat.
8th Country, Iran, 25Jul- 4Aug 2015

127. At a cell phone shop for a Tourist
SIM. Here, you need an Iran ID for
a cell phone SIM.
Met a Uni. Student who got 4 SIM
Cards for us. The Manager use
VPN to unblock Facebook for us.
8th Country, Iran, 25Jul- 4Aug 2015

128. Very few Hotels here at Iran.
We would look for any Park or any
green playground area for the night.
Our 1st camping in a Park, cooking our
meals.
Our shower at a Park.
8th Country, Iran, 25Jul- 4Aug 2015

129. Needed to use a toilet & met a lady
by the roadside who brought us to
his grandpa’s house, Ibrahim. He
invited us to put up with his family.
His relatives have to sleep outside
to let us sleep inside.
Ibrahim’s House, Baggiran, Iran, 1Aug 2015

130. Ibrahim’s Family who hosted us at
Iran, 2Aug2015
Ibrahim’s House, Baggiran, Iran, 2Aug 2015

131. Share Tim’s BBQ
recipe and had
BBQ together
We were invited to put up
another night. They gave
us a feast & I made Tim’s
BBQ and we had a good
feast with Ibrahim’s family.
Ibrahim’s House, Baggiran, Iran, 2Aug 2015

132. Share Tim’s BBQ
recipe and had
BBQ together
Lemon, an Eye Cleaner, Ibrahim’s House, Iran, 2Aug 2015
A traditional method practice by Ibrahim, an
X Army Officer cum traditional Locum.
A drop of Lemon, hold it for a minute, clears
the blur coating developed over age.
Ibrahim, now70 has no Eyesight problem,
cleaning his eyes once a month. No need
laser or Cataract operation!

133. Share Tim’s BBQ
recipe and had
BBQ together
Lemon, an Eye Cleaner, Ibrahim’s House, Iran, 2Aug 2015

134. Share Tim’s BBQ
recipe and had
BBQ together
8th Country, Iran, 2Aug 2015 Ibrahim’s House
Fellowship with Ibrahim’s
Family who hosted for 2 days
at Baggiran Iran.

135. Silver and Gold have we none,
just a used motorbike with
some saved cash, time and
family & friends’ support to see
the world in a simple setting.
Leaving Iran Campground towards Turkey 6Aug 2015

136. Iran to Agri, Turkey 7Aug 2015
Security in Turkey was rather
tight, with Military Helicopter
patrolling above untill we
reached the town, where
armoured vehicles took over.

137. 9th Country Turkey Border crossing . 6Aug 2015
In Turkey Benzine is 4.30
Lira/liter! (about RM 6.60).
Thank God we chose a Lean
bike, only 125 cc. Border
Inspection for Fuel Smuggling

138. 9th Country Turkey Border crossing to Agri. 6Aug 2015
Our 1st meal after Turkey Border.
Heading to Agri, nearest town after
border. Benzine is 4.30 Lira/liter!
(RM 6.60) here. Thank God we
chose only a 125 cc Bike.

139. Turkey, Agri, 8Aug 2015
Met Memet Irgin, Selam Berber at
Agri, Turkey who welcomed us
here. He was so hospitable, cycled
out to buy bread & fruits for us
before we head to Erzurum.

140. Ishak Asha Palace, Agri, Turkey 8Aug 2015
Built in the center of old town on a steep
sloping hill surrounded 3 ragged sides in 1784.

141. Erzurum Campground heading for Sivas 9Aug 2015
Road from Erzurum heading for
Sivas (400 km.) Might not make it
today as all depends on man,
machine and weather.

142. Turkey, 8Aug 2015
Found a campsite (Camping
Giris) just 10km away from
Erzurum. Our 1st camping in
Turkey tonight.

143. Left Erzurum Campsite early
after a quick breakfast. Need to
do 250km across barren dessert
heading west towards an airport
to Sivas.
Erzurum Campground heading for Sivas 9Aug 2015

144. Erzurum Campground heading for Sivas 9Aug 2015
Saw a paid Campsite along the
way (15 Euro with Water, Shower,
Electricity & Wifi ) Did our
washing & cooked what ever we
had from our Bikes.

145. 9th Country Istanbul City, Turkey 17Aug 2015

146. Looking for a Hospital at Istanbul City, Turkey 17Aug 2015
Looking for a budget
accommodation & a
Hospital as our most senior
Rider fall sick and could
not proceed.

147. Managed to admit Frankie to
a Hospital in Istanbul as he
fell Sick and was warded.
We then looked for a budget
Hotel.
Looking for a Hospital at Istanbul City, Turkey 17Aug 2015

148. Galata Tower, Istanbul City, Turkey 17Aug 2015

149. Galata Tower, Istanbul City, Turkey 17Aug 2015Galata Tower, Istanbul City, Turkey 17Aug 2015

150. Looking for Deniz Motor, Fatih
St. Istanbul to change a bent
Rim. Captain has forgotten the
Helmet after wearing his Cap!
Getting old and Rusty!
Scouted Istanbul City for a Bike shop 17Aug 2015

151. Fatih Street. Istanbul.
While waiting for Bike
Repair, we had lunch
nearby a Restaurant.
Scouted Istanbul City for a Bike shop 17Aug 2015

152. Fatih Street. Istanbul.
We roamed the street
and I bought a Sling shot.
Scouted Faith St. Istanbul City 17Aug 2015

153. Leaving Erzincan, towards Izmit, Istanbul for the Bogazici Koprusu
Bridge to Bayanroy, Europe. Met a Biker Assist who helped us
locate a camp place at City Field and escorted us out till the Bridge.
Asia to Europe, through Bogazici Koprusu. 18 Aug 2015
Mount Ararat, Turkey

154. Asia to Europe, through Bogazici Koprusu. 18 Aug 2015
Bogazici Koprusu Bridge separating Asia
from Europe.

155. GREECE border crossing 21Aug2015
Istanbul to GREECE border, Feres

156. TURKEY to GREECE, from
Istanbul to Feres border, a
distance of 250km.
Stop-by to fill up, both gas &
food at a Petrol kiosk.
10th Country GREECE border crossing 21Aug2015

157. 10th Country GREECE border crossing 21Aug2015

158. 10th Country GREECE border crossing 21Aug2015
Entering the Wrong Border
Entered Greece border
instead of Bulgaria!
Both borders were only
25 km apart, left & right.

159. Next 11th to 13th, Bulgaria, Serbia, Macedonia

160. Filling up. Bulgaria to Macedonia. 26Aug2016
26 Aug 2015 Filled up 5 liters
of Super 95@ 2.04/liter.
Paid 10.20 Euros

161. 11th Country Bulgaria. Reroute to next Border 27Aug2015
At Bulgaria, we checked in to
a Guest House at Cekbor.
Cooked our meals at the
guest House.

162. Leaving Bulgaria for Macedonia. 28Aug2015
Left Bulgaria for Macedonia
after our home cook
breakfast. –Spaghetti,
tomatoes, onions, dried meat
jerky, nuts & tomato sauce.

163. Road from Bulgaria to
Macedonia with
Souvenirs shop along
the way.
Leaving Bulgaria for Macedonia. 28Aug2015

164. Road from Bulgaria to Macedonia. 28Aug2015

165. Road from Bulgaria to Macedonia. 28Aug2015
This is the spot, Bulgaria to
Macedonia where my Lumia
1520 dropped from my pouch,
hit the road front down and
cracked the Screen Protector.

166. Road from Bulgaria to Macedonia. 28Aug2015

167. Road from Bulgaria to Macedonia. 28Aug2015
Food stop by a mountain
stream along the way to
Macedonia.
We had a feast as too long
did not pamper ourselves.

168. Road from Bulgaria to Macedonia. 28Aug2015

169. 29 Aug 2015
Exiting Serbia
to Macedonia
as you require
a Visa to enter
Serbia.
What a day!.
13th Country Macedonia. 29Aug2015

170. Macedonia. 29Aug2015
Located a Camp Site, Checked in
and put up for the night. Cooked
dinner & Breakfast the next
morning before proceeding.

171. Macedonia, Ohrid, 1stSep2015
Museum on Water,
Macedonia to Tirana.
Our shower at Ohrid
Lake, 241M BSL
Macedonia

172. Stop by midway Macedonia
to Tirana for lunch. Saw
something familiar, its
‘Roti Canai’, Macedonian
style!
Macedonia. 1stSep2015

173. Rode 200km from Ohrid,
Macedonia to Tirana,
Albania by the lake side
leaning over up hills
curves.
Macedonia to Tirana, Albania. 1stSep2015

174. Alongside road to
Tirana, Albania, you can
see beautiful
Tombstone of hillside
people who died.
Macedonia to Tirana, Albania. 1stSep2015

175. Next 14th to 16th, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia

176. Albania, capital Tirana, is
Southeastern Europe’s small
country with coastlines crossed
by the Albanian Alps with many
castles and archaeological sites.
14th Country, Albania. 1Sep2015

177. 14th Country, Albania. 1Sep2015
Along Tirana, Albania
by the hills you see
more Trucks and
Tractors than Cars

178. Albania, entering the city Tirana. 1Sep2015

179. Albania to Montenegro (Monte Carlo of Montenegro) 2Sep2015
Plan to cross 2 countries.
Albania to Montenegro &
Bosnia Herzegovina through
the coastal road but one of our
bike had a puncture.

180. Checked in a Guest House and
had a good meal. Left only 3
of us in a Team to continue
our journey to London .
Albania to Montenegro (Monte Carlo of Montenegro) 2Sep2015

181. Along Albania to Montenegro,
you can see a mix commute of
Horses and modern Transport
upon reaching the town.
Albania to Montenegro (Monte Carlo of Montenegro) 2Sep2015

182. 15th Country, Montenegro. 2 Sep 2015

183. Our Lunch stop before entering Montenegro.2Sep2015

184. Albania to Monte Negro (Monte Carlo of Montenegro) 2Sep2015
Seeing Eric’s Bike slowing down
with a wobble on top of a
mountain trail from Albania to
Monte Negro is not so much of
a fun.

185. Bike Puncture on top of a hill, Croatia. 2Sep15
A rear tyre puncture with no
Bike shops, no passer by
passerby and no back up trucks
to assist here. You just got to
handle it yourself or stranded
on top of the hill.

186. MATKOVICA AUTO CAMPING ground, Croatia. 8Sep2015
MATKOVICA AUTO CAMP
ground @15 EURO /night
/person with Water, Electricity
& WIFI access.

187. 16th Country, Croatia. 8Sep2015
We managed to do some clean up, upload
photos and communicate our travels after
2 days without bathing sleeping in Tents
at places without shower & Wifi.

188. Dubrovnik sea side dinner, Croatia. 8Sep15
Left MATKOVICA Auto Camp Site
after spending a night there and
scouted Dubrovnik little seaside
town for Dinner.

189. Dubronik to Sibenik, Croatia. 5Sep2015

190. Road to Sibenik, Croatia. 4Sep15
Saw some Classic Cars & big bikes
by the side of the hill waving at us.
We stop by & had a chat as well as
giving our little bikes a rest too.

191. Dubronik to Sibenik, Croatia. 5Sep2015
Saw a Bakery and stopped for a
short rest for our little Bikes doing
uphill climbing with luggage. We did
our Lunch with Coffee here too.

192. Sibenik, Croatia. Sep15
Reached Sibenik and located an old
Restaurant for dinner. This old
premise was under renovation and
the owner offered us to stay upstairs.
We cleaned up a space and put up.

193. 15th Country, Montenegro. Sep 2015
Budva , a town in Montenegro on the Adriatic Sea known for
sandy beaches and nightlife. This historic district is home to a
seaside citadel and religious sites such as the Church of Santa
Maria in Punta, established in the 9th century.

194. Next 17 to 19 Country, Bosnia, Slovania, Austria

195. 18 to 19th Country SLOVENIA to AUSTRIA 7Sep2015
This is our accommodation in
Slovenia (Yugoslovia), a previous
military Prison reconverted to Celica
Hotel for 26 Euro/night per head for
a 3 person room with breakfast.

196. Hostel Celica @26 Euro is beyond our
normal budget of 15/day but we need
to recover from the previous night of
sleeping in a Tent with heavy rain,
wet and cold.
18 to 19th Country SLOVENIA to AUSTRIA 7Sep2015

197. Stop mid way before reaching
Austria for a quick bite.
Met a Bike on the way to Austria
too. He was amazed how this little
Bike can reach here from Malaysia.
SLOVENIA to AUSTRIA 7Sep2015

198. 10Sep2015, AUSTRIA Autobahn out to Trunk RoadSLOVENIA to AUSTRIA 7Sep2015
Met Rudolf Wiener (Rudy) at a gas
station at Austria. He is a Biker too
and we chatted. He then offered us
to put up at his place and led us to his
home after buying some groceries.

199. 10Sep2015, AUSTRIA Autobahn out to Trunk RoadGraz, AUSTRIA 7Sep2015
Reached Rudy’s home in Graz, Austria.
Both Rudy and wife were very kind and
generous. They cooked for us and
showed us around and offered us to
prolong our stay but we always stick by
the rule of the Fish.

200. 10Sep2015, AUSTRIA Autobahn, Stopped by Traffic Police
Upon entering the Autobahn, we
were chased and stopped by the
Traffic Police. After inspecting our
driving license, we were told that
we do not have a Toll Tag and that,
triggered the alarm upon entry.

201. We apologized for our ignorance
and they led us to a Kiosk to buy
the Toll Sticker. 5 Euro valid for a
week travel on highway in Austria.
We then to reenter the Autobahn
10Sep2015, AUSTRIA Autobahn out to Trunk Road

202. Next 20th Country, Italy/Austria, Switzerland

203. A mountain pass in northern Italy, with narrow hair pin bends & snow rain.
20th Country, Italy/Austria, The Road less travel. 11Sep2015

204. The Stelvio Pass (Italian: Passo
dello Stelvio; German: Stilfser
Joch, also Stilfserjoch) 2,757
m (9,045 ft)
Peak elevation of 2,757 M (9,045 Ft)
Italy/Austria mountain Pass. 11Sep2015

205. 24 Countries,18,290 KM, 4Mth 11days & 6 3/4 hrs, England!

206. FRANCE, Nancy to Luneville, 18Sep2015.
Entered Nancy, and stop-by Polo
Restaurant for lunch.

207. FRANCE, Nancy to Luneville, 18Sep2015.
Filled up gas and had a quick bite
by the Petrol Kiosk before hitting
the Highway.
We were cornered by the Police
Patrol Car at Nancy before before
reaching Luneville.

208. FRANCE, 19Sep2015.
Why are you all so slow?
Oh, for safety reasons, we ride slow as
we are on our way to London.
Where are you all from?
Malaysia Sir.
On this little motorcycle?
Yes Sir.

209. FRANCE, Luneville to Reims 19Sep2015.

210. Next 22nd to 23rd Country, Germany, France

211. FRANCE, Reims to ENGLAND, Dover via Ferry at Calais. 19Sep2015.

212. 19 Sep 15,Calais.
Hope, joy & light at end of
Tunnel!
23th Country, France 19Sep2015.

213. 19 Sep15, France, Stopped by Patrol police for using
the SOS Lane on Motorway!
23th Country, France 18 Sep2015.

214. FRANCE, Reims to ENGLAND, Dover via Ferry at Calais. 19Sep2015.
19Sep2015.
Reached Calais,
the Port for France
to Dover, England.
We managed to get
the 5:55pm, Ferry to
Dover, UK!

215. FRANCE, Reims to ENGLAND, Dover via Ferry at Calais. 19Sep2015.

216. The Ferry fare from Calais to Dove is the same as taking the underground
Tunnel at 68 Euro. It is a 11/2 hr ride and we chose the ferry over the Tunnel
to relax and also have food in the Restaurant.
FRANCE, Reims to ENGLAND, Dover via Ferry at Calais. 19Sep2015.

217. FRANCE, Reims to ENGLAND, Dover via Ferry at Calais. 19Sep2015.

218. ENGLAND, To Little Switzerland Campsite, Dover. 19Sep2015
Left Calais, France for Little
Switzerland Campsite, Folkestone,
Dover, England as decided to pitch
our Tents for the last time!

219. ENGLAND, Little Switzerland Campsite, Dover. 19Sep2015
Reached Little Switzerland
Campsite late evening but
reception was still open. We check
the price 1st as exchange rate was
BSP 6.9 to a Ringgit that time.

220. ENGLAND, Little Switzerland Campsite,Dover.19Sep2015
We decided to pitched our
Tents for the last time instead
of renting the cabins at Little
Switzerland Campsite, Dover!.

221. Around Little Switzerland Campsite, Dover 20Sep2015

222. Around Little Switzerland Campsite, Dover 20Sep2015

223. ENGLAND, Little Switzerland Campsite, Dover 20Sep2015

224. ENGLAND, Little Switzerland Campsite to London.20Sep2015
Left Little Switzerland Campsite,
Folkestone, Dover to Alexandra Palace
Ground to catch up with Ian, Daphne &
Tiny for a Picnic style Malaysian home
cook 'Welcome Lunch'

225. 20Sep2015
Celebrating Three Malaysian Riders
reaching London, at Alexandra
Palace Ground with Ian, Daphne &
Tiny, Eric’s sister.
Congratulations! Three Malaysian Riders made it to London

226. ENGLAND, Alexandra Palace London. 20Sep2015
Daphne & Ian threw us a home
cook Picnic style Malaysian
'Welcome Lunch‘ at Alexandra
Palace Ground accompanied by
Tiny, Eric’s sister.

227. Malaysian Delicacies home cooked by my God sister, Daphne Bartlet

228. ENGLAND, Heading to Downing Street, London. 20Sep2015
Heading for Maidstone, to Downing
Street, London for a Photo shoot thus
announcing the completion of our
'Ultimate Journey of a life time’

229. ENGLAND, Heading to Downing Street, London. 20Sep2015
Another 40 miles from
Maidstone to the completion
of our 'Ultimate Journey of a
life time' , Touraride Downing
Street Penang to London!.

230. 24 Countries,18,290 KM, 4Mth 11days & 6 3/4 hrs

231. The Three Riders that made it from Downing St. Penang to London

232. Not the beginning but its the ending that counts! 20Sep2015!