GS Rider Looking to Cross China...

[chinabiker]

The route takes me from Laos border through Yunnan to Chengdu then north to Xinjiang Provence skirting the mountains through Sichuan provence.

I have a fully detailed itinerary but I need help with the paperwork and entry into China. My preference is to enter and cross China without a guide as this is very expensive. Failing that I'm looking to join a group. I'm riding an '07 GS.

Unfortunately there is no documentation about the process to obtain the necessary paperwork, at least not disclosed to the public.
You will, most likely, have to find someone who has a backstage view.
Check out this thread for some info and links on this topic or try to contact the guys from Hiddenchina or Haiweitrails.

There were people who have made it on their own bikes through China without guide, but only a few and quite a while ago.
I am not aware of anyone who managed to do so since the beginning of 2008.
Also, 2009 may not be the perfect year to try - look here.
If you have enough time you probably can sit it out at the border.

I doubt that there will be a group to join in this area at this time of the year.

Are BMW's popular in China?

BMWs are popular in some areas but not really widespread.



Good luck for your trip and keep us updated with anything which could be helpful for others.

Cheers

Andy