Welcome; we are glad you joined us, Kevin.
I certainly do recommend you purchase a Chinese motorcycle. Forum member Old Gringo lives in Peru, and has helped several visitors purchase Chinese motorcycles. The rumors you heard from the dealers are ridiculous. :roll: An air cooled, single cylinder, Chinese engine is very reliable, and doesn't require much maintenance.
Here are links to several ride reports from owners of Chinese motorcycles.
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=371656
http://www.danielmontejo.com/Picture...themachine.htm
I suggest you post photographs and descriptions of several motorcycles you are considering. We will be glad to help you decide which Chinese motorcycle might be best for your trip.
Spud
__________________
Spud
"Never argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level, and beat you with experience."
Mark Twain
2015 Zongshen ZS250GY-3 (RX3)
2006 Zongshen ZS200GY-2 (Sierra 200)
2005 Honda XR650L
2004 Honda CRF250X
1998 Kawasaki KDX220
Mods made to my Zongshen ZS200GY-2:
http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=6894