DUCATI Thailand

I was just reading that Ducati opened a factory here in Thailand. This is very good news as that means Thai and expat riders can now buy a Monster 795 at a reasonable price of 399.000Baht (~12.500$ or 9500Euro) instead of paying 300% more in taxes for an imported bike. HAPPY DAYS!!

The official website is HERE




This same reason was one of the decisive factors for Kawasaki's huge success in 2009, when they started selling the ER6-n at 240.000Baht.

The new Kawasaki ER6-n 2012

Unfortunately they're both not quite in my budget, but if I wait, let's say 10 years, I might be able to afford a used one....sniff sniff

And just to do some more self-flagellation, I found this superb Ducati Sport 1000 (2008) for sale here in Thailand for a mere 1.340.000Baht. See the full ad here.


Now, didn't I have a rich uncle in America somewhere...?

Kawasaki ER6-n 2012

There's only one other bike I considered getting besides the Yamaha SR, the Kawasaki ER6-n 650.
The big bike market in Thailand is being crippled by massive taxes and import duties, that's why there are so many unregistered big bikes in Thailand. The ER6n, along with it's bigger brother the Versys, are 2 exceptions because they're assembled in Thailand and come with a very reasonable price tag. This, and the fact that they're both excellent bikes for both beginners and veterans, are the roots cause for its success amongst Thais and expatriates in Thailand.

I love my SR, but there are times when I look at the ER6-n and dream....

Here are some pictures of the new version 2012. The frame and the swing arm are gorgeous in my opinion.

And here is a short review with video: http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/News/newsresults/New-bikes/2011/October/oct2111-fully-updated-kawasaki-er-6n-sets-new-standard/