I know I need Mexican motorcycle insurance, but for riding just the Baja, do I need the Vehicle Importation Permit? Can I get one in Canada before I leave if I need one?
If I cross on the ferry to mainland Mexico, do I need the permit then if not for just the Baja?
Thoughts?

Lots of good Mexico info here on HUBB all about Mexico, including routes and places to stay.

Short answer is NO, for BAJA you do not need a TVIP for your bike. But you do need a Tourist Visa ... buy it at the border when you cross. (any border) Takes 5 or 10 minutes to get. Good for 6 months.
Go to "Migracion". About $23 usd.
Pay using US or Canadian cash, Credit card or Mex. Pesos.

Best insurance deals found on line. Baja Bound are OK.
Mexican Auto Insurance Online - Baja Bound Mexico Insurance Services
This is insurance not just for Baja but ALL of Mexico.

When you cross to mainland Mex. on Ferry, get your TVIP at the Port in La Paz, Baja Sur. Make SURE you have a Tourist Visa before you show up for the TVIP and Ferry Ticket. ( Possible fine for NOT having Visa) BUT YES! you can get your TVIP on line before your trip, they mail it to you. Pretty fast service. Be sure to check out of Mexico when you leave and CANCEL your TVIP or lose your deposit. Any Aduana at any border can do this. A credit will show up on your account in a day or less.

The TVIP is "about" $68 usd with $300 or $400 deposit for bike (amount depends on year of bike). Good for 6 months. Deposit is taken on your credit card or cash. Fully refundable.

There are a few other fees .... and they ALL continually go UP about every 6 months to a year. Mexico is getting very expensive very quickly ATM. The whole country is living on "Credit" now.
WARNING: Disaster ahead!

My info from November of 2014.

Thanks for the info. Not sure about the mainland part yet. Maybe I will have melted by then.

Do you have a lot of experience in hot climates? Humidity?

Actually, on the mainland you may find relief from the heat if you go up into the highlands. It's cooler up there ... a lot.

The most historic and beautiful cities in Mexico are all along the central highlands. From Mexico City all the way up to Real de Catorce. Lots to see and do.

Hope you can find some travel partners.

When you leaving? I am headed to Belize via Baja in June with a group.

I'm planning on leaving mid May from here (Lake Louise.) Then to Chicago and the old Route 66 west, then down to Tecate and the Baja. Figure to be at Tecate in around 3 to weeks, say first week in June?

Yes, I have experience with hot weather, both on the bike and off. I have frozen too. It's part of it all. The good days make up for the bad, at least that's what I tell myself.