Before You Ride It Home

Match the numbers first

A motorcycle's VIN is stamped on the frame, commonly on the steering head. Compare it, character by character, with the title and the registration. A VIN that looks ground down, restamped or covered is a reason to walk away. Run the VIN through the NHTSA recalls lookup for open safety recalls, and through a vehicle history service for title brands and total losses.

The paperwork

• The title. Every owner listed must sign it over. If a lender is shown, you need the lien release.
• A bill of sale. Date, price, VIN, and both parties' names and signatures.
• The seller's notice. The seller must tell the DMV about the transfer within 5 calendar days, using the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability. It protects them from tickets and claims after the sale, and it's a good sign of a seller doing things properly.
• Your transfer. Take the signed title and documents to the DMV, or use its online services, to put the bike in your name.

Insure it before the ride home

California requires financial responsibility on the road: at least $30,000 for injury to one person, $60,000 per accident and $15,000 for property damage, and you must carry evidence of it, which you can show on your phone. Arrange the policy on that VIN before you hand over the money, so it starts the moment the bike is yours. If you already insure a motorcycle, ask how long your policy covers a newly acquired one; that varies by insurance company. Add comprehensive and collision if the bike is financed or if you would miss it.

What about the bike can matter to an insurer

Type, performance and characteristics such as anti-lock brakes and theft deterrents all feed the rate. So do aftermarket parts the seller added; list them, or they may not be covered as you assume. A salvage or other branded title can limit physical damage coverage and resale value.

Warning signs in the sale itself

• The title isn't in the seller's name, or the seller wants to fill it in later.
• The price is far below comparable bikes, with pressure to decide today.
• A remote seller asks for a deposit before you've seen the bike or the title.
• Keys, title or registration are "coming in the mail".

Meet in a public place with cameras, see the title in person, and pay only when the paperwork is in your hand.

A quick inspection that saves money

1. Look for crash signs: scuffed bar ends, levers, pegs and engine covers, bent brackets, or new fairings on an old bike.
2. Check fork seals for oil, the chain and sprockets for wear, and the tire date codes.
3. Ask for a cold start and listen for knocks or smoke.
4. Squeeze both brakes hard and check the lights and horn.
5. If you're unsure, pay a motorcycle shop for a pre-purchase inspection.

What varies by insurance company

How quickly a policy can be bound, how newly acquired bikes are handled, how aftermarket parts are covered, and whether a branded title affects eligibility all differ between insurers.

Buying a bike this week? Get the quote on the VIN first, and we'll help with the car too.