Buying a bike in South Africa
 

Hello,

I'm planning an Africa trip and was wondering how an American would go about purchasing a used bike in South Africa. How long would it take me to register the bike, if it's even possible? Is insurance easy to get for foreigners?

Thanks a lot,
Bevan

Hi

maybe you find here www.600.xt.ms something

regards

Thomas

Try www.autotrader.co.za or www.bikesa.net, to register should not take too long, Insurance???
Dunno about that one
Martman

Sorry, to register bike you may need some sort of adress in SA.

Registering a bike for a foreigner in SA is very easy. You will need the following:

1. Copy of the bike registration
2. A few passport photos
3. A statement that any outstanding finance on the vehicle from the previous owner has been paid
4. An SA address. I used my hostel address in Cape Town with no problems.

If you buy second hand the third party insurance from the previous owner should transfer directly to you (not sure if you buy new).

Maybe the Beemer clup of Pretoria might be able to help you. The link to the BMW club of South Africa is on the HUBB. Some friendly guys there.

I have a DR 650 SE SP46A 2002 for sale.

If you buy in South Africa make sure you get:

Title of ownership
Roadworthy certificate less than 6 months old
Valid license disc
Sale agreement / contract stating vehicle being paid in full

Registering and insuring is easy and can be done in one day.

The most difficult will be to find a suitable bike. The market for overland travel bikes is thin

insurance is not legally required in SA.... and as a foreigner the rates will be high. So you could do what I do and just not insure the bike.