No BIS means NO services that depends on data. AFAIK BB depends on RIM browser / system to enable data browsing / consumption. SO without BIS, can't do. Not worth to use a BB without BIS activated.

Btw, new Onyx OS now is v5.0.0.351! Heard will launch end of December or early Jan '09. Surely the telco will come-out with good affordable price. If not how to sell? =D