I placed a post on "sidecars wanted" forum several weeks ago and I got an offer! (Thanks, Jim.)
This is my very first experience with sidecar in any form.
Now I have more questions. (Maybe I can ask Jim also..)
Q1) Do I need to register a sidecar?
I live in California.
From the forum search, I got an idea that sidecars are generally considered as accessary to the motorcycle, therefor no title, tag are required.
Is this (still) true in California? (I browsed DMV web site but couldn't find any useful info.)
If I were Arnold Schwarzenegger, I guess I can get away with anything but.. (I have motorcycle driver's license of course.)
Q2) Is the passenger required to wear helmet?
The sidecar is not fully enclosed. And yes he should wear one even if it's not required but just want to know.
Q3) Any sidecar classes in southern California?
I found STEP thread but there seems to be no classes in south-west..
Any instructor in LA/Long Beach area who can teach me including the setup?
(I am going to use 75 CB750K, because 78 XS750 is still in process of restoration.)
Any help will be appriciated.
- Shigeo (yes, that's my first name.)
Welcome to the fold! Most of us have found sidecaring to be addictive: the more you travel the more you want to.
Q1: No. The sidecar is an accessary. You may want to insure it though.
Q2: Yes and No. If a passenger on the bike has to wear one, so does a passenger in the car.
Q3: A class is best. If not start slow and never exceed you comfort zone. A large empty parking lot is a great practice field. Have fun.
This article in Rider Magazine sums it up well.
You do NOT need a motorcycle endorsemnt to ride a rig in California.
You DO need to wear a helmet.
http://www.ridermagazine.com/output.cfm?id=1071397
Thanks for the replies.
Wow, so it was legal.. Interesting.
I just purchased a new Harley sidecar. It comes with a formal bill of sale which could be converted into a title in a state that requires one. California, as mentioned by the others above, doesn't require a title or registration on a sidecar.
Happy Trails!
I see. Maybe I should also get a bill of sale, just in case..
Originally written by gnm109 on 3/28/2007 11:20 PM
I just purchased a new Harley sidecar. It comes with a formal bill of sale which could be converted into a title in a state that requires one. California, as mentioned by the others above, doesn't require a title or registration on a sidecar.
Happy Trails!
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No states require a specific title for a sidecar. Lets hope it stays that way!!!
Shigeo,
A signed and dated bill of sale with the description of the purchase and model, year and serial number (if present) is always a wise choice for proof of ownership.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
Originally written by Hack'n on 3/29/2007 9:27 AM
Shigeo,
A signed and dated bill of sale with the description of the purchase and model, year and serial number (if present) is always a wise choice for proof of ownership.Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
Thanks.
Yes. That's what I was thinking. The seller seems to be very nice person but just in case.
Do Velorex have serial numbers? If yes, where?
I am going to his house tomorrow! Can't wait.
The serial numbers are located on the plate that reinforces the rear upper sidecar strut. There should be an embossed aluminum label with the Model, year of manufacture and serial number on it.
If it is not there the serial number is stamped into the metal at the same location. The current serial numbers of the 562's are in the high 301,000's. Late model 700's number in the high 13,000's.
Lonnie
Originally written by Hack'n on 3/29/2007 12:04 PM
The serial numbers are located on the plate that reinforces the rear upper sidecar strut. There should be an embossed aluminum label with the Model, year of manufacture and serial number on it.
If it is not there the serial number is stamped into the metal at the same location. The current serial numbers of the 562's are in the high 301,000's. Late model 700's number in the high 13,000's.Lonnie
Thank you!
I would definitely get a bill of sale on any motorcycle parts you purchase. You never know when you might be called upon to prove ownership.
my harley sidecar came with a MSO with the vin etc same as a new bike.
harley treats them just like a bike - still i dont have to get a title in MN so it just goes along when i sell it
later
to
I made the mistake of including the Harley issued sidecar title with the paperwork when I went to register the motorcycle with the California DMV. DON'T DO IT!!!! It just confused those morons. I wasted a solid hour with those people until, a supervisor fianly came over and instructed the nimwit to just register it as a motorcycle.
Hello from the homeland of Urals and Dneprs - from Russia!
I'm getting a sidecar but it's not russian - I like Honda Valkyrie and this year I've decided to change my Valkyrie Standard to Interstate & sidecar. So I'm here in this forum now too =))
Hack'n have you got a California GT sidecar (I've seen it on your avatar/pic)? Haven't I mistaken? I've got a California GT sidecar and want to find some owners of this sidecar to share experience.
