I just bought a used motorcycle. What is the process to get it on the road?

Question

Is this the correct the process to get it on the road. 1) Insure it 2) register it (DMV) 3. Inspect it?

Answer 1

i usually drive down my driveway to get to the road. i don't know why i would walk all the way to the insurance company, dmv and insoection station. but you do what you have to. everyone has a different way of doing things.

Answer 2

yes, yes, and yes.  Then take it to the local shop and leave your wallet!  LOL, sorry.   Mechanically-wise, I would fit a new batt (just in case) and I always change the oil and filter on any vehicle I buy...before you fill up the first time, take a peek inside the gas tank (use a flashlight, dummy!) and inspect for rust...maybe put some SeaFoam or some such in the tank on the first fillup.  Check all the electrical connections for corrosion, make sure the tires are not cracked or slick and put air in them, I know these things sound small, but it's too easy to wrap your legs around the new girl and go for a ride..

Answer 3

You have to get it inspected before you can get it registered. I don't know of any states that are exceptions to that rule. Some states require emissions control. Many states are currently considering requiring that, now that more motorcycles are on the road than ever before (for the gas mileage, mostly).

But definitely get it insured first. Motorcycle coverage is so cheap you can easily go all the way with high coverage and low deductibles and still pay pennies compared to car insurance. Mine is $18 a month for very high coverage (the medial type), hospital pay in case I'm ever hospitalized after an accident, $100 deductible, full comprehensive, etc. I'm through State Farm, but my brother has the same bike and only $1 more a month for comparable levels through Farmers. (We both have bulk discounts for other types of insurance, though.)

Enjoy your new bike!

Answer 4

Those are all right except you also need to get a motorcycle license then you can get on the streets. It is a course you have to take just like drivers ed.

Answer 5

If it has a previous inspection sticker, it will probably still be good. Insure it, pay the state the tax on it and get plates or a sticker (register it).  Then perform your first maintenance on it, to get familiar with it.