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Buying and registering a bike in the U.S. Buying and registering a bike in the U.S.
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North America Topics specific to Canada and USA/Alaska only.
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  #1  
Old 8 May 2011
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Buying and registering a bike in the U.S.
Hi,

My wife and I wish to fly to the U.S. Buy two harleys and ride them across the country (Where from Australia). Can anyone help me with how a tourist buys a bike in the U.S. and then registers and insures it.

Cheers
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  #2  
Old 10 May 2011
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There is a nifty search function on the HUBB.
Try to input the terms such as "buy bike usa" in the search field at the top right of the screen. This subject had been covered many many times in the past! Read the past posts and if you still don't understand something after that, ask a specific question on that topic.
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  #3  
Old 22 May 2011
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Location: Onalaska, Washington, USA
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As mentioned above there has been much written on this subject. The key is to remember that we have fifty states and each sets their own rules on registration of vehicles. Some are a real pain, some (like Washington State) all you need to do is pay the fees and have an address to send registration to, (best if you have a local address but not required)

Where do you want to start your trip?

Bob
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  #4  
Old 23 May 2011
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Good mate of mine did it last year.

Try jedi master on ADV rider. His name is Adam, he will sort you out with info.

Paul
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  #5  
Old 31 May 2011
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There is (was?) a member by the nickname 'RickMcD' who works (worked?) at a Harley dealer just north of Los Angeles.

I just found out that it is quite easy to register vehicles in the state of Arizona (where I live) but the state is a little out of the way for someone coming in from out of the country. Your best bet is to contact Rick and start with him, and others in California, as California will be your closest and easiest way into the states from Australia.

I do know the local Harley dealer in Yuma, Arizona as the owner was my next door neighbor before he got the dealership (and the money that came with it, LOL), but again, it would probably be more of a hassle getting to Yuma than it is worth for you!
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  #6  
Old 1 Jun 2011
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Hey folks. I'm in New Jersey at the moment about to start a 6 week trip across the states. I bought a secondhand V Strom 650 but ran into major hassle at the DMV. Long story short i didn't get the bike transferred into my name but instead had to register it to my girlfriend who is a New Jersey citizen. I've been told that Pennsylvania is very straightforward but i don't have firsthand experience.

Progressive were the only company that would insure me on a foreign license but their charges were reasonable and they do allow you to pay monthly with no penalty for cancelling a policy early.

Also if you're visiting a DMV office check online to see how the office is rated. Some are much more efficient than others and a knowledgable clerk can save you hours of waiting in line. I hope this helps and best of luck with the trip.
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