custom titles - Harley Forum

lightning · #1 08-21-2009, 12:01 PM

Anyone have any info on titles for customs / home built bikes.

milindh · #2 08-21-2009, 12:31 PM

I think it varies from state to state. Out here in California they are given "Special Construction" titles. That is the kiss of death when you go to sell them cuz the '07 EPA rules state that you can only own one "non-conforming" bike in your life. So far however those rules haven't been implemented in the state. What it means for the builder, however, is that people are now afraid to buy a SC bike because they are worried it might be classified as their one and only "non-conforming" bike of their lifetime. That fear has radically driven down the prices on customs to half or even 1/3 of what they were going for three years ago. Good for buyers. Bad for builders.

If you build a custom with a Harley OEM frame and VIN you are in a much better position when you go to sell.

evoKENevo · #3 08-21-2009, 12:49 PM

Titleing requirements vary from state to state. My advise to talk directly to a knowledgible state DMV representative (for your state of course) and have them spell it out to you.

It's been years since I built an titled an "assembled vehicle"...but just to give you SOME idea, here in MI at the time, you were required to have the title for the frame (one could be applied for if lost etc.) OR manufacturers statement of origin (MSO) for custom frames and either the engine cases from that frame OR the VIN of the bike it came from OR an MSO for aftermarket engines (i.e. S&S etc) along with receipts OR signed affidavit explaining how & where all the other stuff was obtained. The vehicle would have to be safety inspected,ETC (picky-picky) and then they would issue you an "assembled vehicle title" along with a new VIN you had to stamp into the engine cases and frame...have fun !?!

NOTE-EDIT: milindh posted his reply as I was writing mine...not meant to contradict or minimize any of his info/advise,etc...especially the latest EPA inspired stuff.

Gunnert · #4 08-23-2009, 11:45 AM

Virginia DMV wants to see ALL receipts you have. Three are REQUIRED...
1. MSO for Frame
2. MSO for Motor
3. MSO for Transmission
A State Patrolman will inspect bike to verify numbers and bike must be ran in his presence. Annual county taxes for bike will be based on the 3 items above. DMV didn't pay any attention to the rest of the receipts. Oh yea, you must submit ORIGINAL documents, no copies. Takes 6-8 weeks minimum to get a title.
Once you get the title and decide you want full coverage insurance for this bike with over $40K in parts is when you get a real shocker. I could find ONLY one insurance company in the country that would write a full policy on the bike, Foremost. All others (including Geico, State Farm, Progressive, etc. etc) will write libility policies only. Bike insures for $36K, $1000 deductible, premiums $1700 per year.
Hinesight for me dictates I should have bought a wrecked Harley and started from there...would have saved a lot of money!

lightning · #5 08-23-2009, 05:52 PM

You rite that's what I did appreciate the info.