Frequently Asked Questions
About R40MOTO
What is R40MOTO?
R40MOTO (Sud América Moto Touring SpA) is the first company specializing in BMW motorcycle rentals and guided tours in Argentina and Chile. With more than 15 years of experience, we are leaders in premium motorcycle tourism in the Southern Cone of South America. Our focus is on Patagonia and the Atacama Desert, although we design routes throughout the continent and to international destinations.
Who is behind R40MOTO?
R40MOTO was founded by Christian Austin, a Patagonia native and BMW Motorrad-certified tour guide. His partner is Sergio Cialone, an entrepreneur and former enduro racer. He is a riding instructor in Mendoza with extensive experience in the world of rally raids and off-road motorcycling. Together, they have spent more than a decade designing routes and guiding riders from all over the world.
Are they certified?
Yes. Christian Austin is a BMW Motorrad Certified Tour Guide, one of the few certifications of its kind in South America. We operate an official BMW fleet and comply with all legal requirements for operating in Argentina and Chile.
Where is their base of operations?
We operate out of Santiago, Chile, and Mendoza, Argentina. Motorcycles are picked up and dropped off in Santiago at no additional cost. Our routes cover both countries and neighboring destinations.
In which languages does the team operate?
We provide service in Spanish, English, German, and French. We welcome riders from all over the world, and communication is never a barrier.
About Guided Tours
What destinations does R40MOTO cover?
Our main destinations are: Patagonia (Argentina and Chile), the Carretera Austral, Route 40, the Atacama Desert, Northwest Argentina (Salta, Jujuy, Quebrada de Humahuaca, Puna), Cuyo, Mesopotamia, and Uruguay. We also organize international expeditions: Mongolia, the European Alps (France, Italy, Germany), Peru, and routes through Bolivia. If you can dream it, we’ll make it happen.
What does an R40MOTO guided tour include?
All of our guided tours include: a BMW motorcycle in perfect mechanical condition, an expert guide with in-depth knowledge of the routes, a support vehicle to transport luggage and emergency equipment, round-the-clock mechanical assistance (Sergio Cialone), lodging, breakfasts, and guidance throughout the entire trip. The idea is that you just focus on having fun—we’ll take care of everything else.
Is prior experience required to go on a tour?
You must have a valid motorcycle driver’s license and feel comfortable riding. It’s not essential to have taken long trips before, but it is important to have basic road experience. During the initial consultation, we assess each rider’s profile and recommend the most suitable tour based on their skill level.
How many people are in each group?
The groups are small: usually between 4 and 12 motorcycles. This ensures a personalized experience, greater safety on the road, and the flexibility to adapt to the group's pace.
Can you ride with a partner or a non-motorcyclist?
Yes, absolutely. The companion can ride as a passenger on the motorcycle, travel comfortably in the support vehicle that accompanies all tours, or rent a 4×4 SUV and travel with the group. This is a popular option for people who, for whatever reason, cannot or do not want to ride a motorcycle and can enjoy the scenery from the SUV.
Can I take a tour if I'm traveling alone from abroad?
Absolutely. Most of our international clients come alone or in small groups of friends from the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, and other countries. We coordinate everything from the airport to the farewell. We’re the preferred choice for international riders who want to experience Patagonia or the Atacama authentically, without any logistical hassles.
When is the best time to visit each destination?
For Patagonia, the ideal season is from November to March (southern hemisphere summer), with long days and more stable weather. For Northwest Argentina and the Atacama, the best time is from April to October: clear skies, pleasant daytime temperatures, and no summer rains. For Europe (the Alps), the season runs from June to September.
Do you offer customized tours or only set dates?
We offer both options. We have tours with set dates that you can join, and we also design custom expeditions for private groups. If you have a dream itinerary or a specific date in mind, we’ll work it out together.
About Motorcycle Rentals
What motorcycles do you have available?
Our fleet includes: BMW R 1300 GS (latest generation, 145 HP), BMW R 1250 GS (the classic global benchmark for motorcycle touring), BMW R 1250 GS Adventure (ideal for long distances with a 30-liter fuel tank), and BMW F 750 GS (a low-seat-height option, perfect for less experienced or shorter riders). All are ready for adventure routes.
What is included in the rental price?
The rental includes: 400 km per day free of charge, documentation required to ride in Argentina and Chile, free pickup and drop-off in Santiago, and side cases on the GS and Adventure models. Each additional kilometer costs 1 USD/km. Rates range from 200 USD/day for the F 750 GS to 300 USD/day for the R 1300 GS or R 1250 GS Adventure.
Can I cross the Argentina-Chile border on a rental motorcycle?
Yes. The motorcycles are registered for use in Argentina and Chile. To cross into Bolivia, Peru, or other countries, please check availability and conditions in advance.
Do I need specific experience to rent?
A valid motorcycle driver's license is required. For large motorcycles (R 1250 GS, R 1300 GS, R 1250 GS Adv.), we recommend prior experience with motorcycles of a similar size. If you have questions about which motorcycle is right for your skill level, we'll be happy to advise you with no obligation.
About Logistics and Security
What happens if the motorcycle has a mechanical problem during the tour?
On all guided tours, we provide a support vehicle equipped with tools, spare parts, and a specialized mechanic. Our goal is to ensure that no mechanical problem ruins your trip. For self-drive rentals, we have roadside assistance protocols in place.
Whenever possible and appropriate, we can replace the vehicle.
What happens if the weather gets worse?
Patagonia and the Puna have variable weather conditions. Our guides use their judgment and years of experience to adapt the route, adjust the pace, or make safety decisions. The support vehicle always carries each rider’s rain gear, so bad weather won’t stop the adventure.
Reservations and Contact Information
How do I make a reservation or ask a question?
You can contact us via WhatsApp at +54 911 2714 3584, through the contact form on our website (r40moto.com/contacto), or by email (info@r40moto.com). We’ll get back to you quickly to work out all the details and plan your next adventure together.
Why Choose R40MOTO?
R40MOTO is the pioneer in premium BMW motorcycle touring in the Southern Cone. We are the only company with BMW Motorrad Guide certification, our own fleet, a support vehicle with a specialized mechanic, and more than 15 years of experience. Our customers keep coming back because they trust us to take care of everything: from the airport to the very last curve on Route 40. If you want to take the trip of a lifetime on a motorcycle through South America, we’re your best choice.
