So what makes a motorcycle?

OK, we've all replaced parts for repair or upgrade purposes but what part(s) if replaced create a different bike legally? I'm guessing the frame or engine case?? Only a slightly hypothetical question as I'm considering taking over a long term project bike and few if any pieces would be original by the time it's running again.

Anyone been through the process of registering a salvaged Frankenbike?

Talmadge_W said:

OK, we've all replaced parts for repair or upgrade purposes but what part(s) if replaced create a different bike legally? I'm guessing the frame or engine case?? Only a slightly hypothetical question as I'm considering taking over a long term project bike and few if any pieces would be original by the time it's running again.

Anyone been through the process of registering a salvaged Frankenbike?

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The VIN is on the frame. Engine swaps happen a lot and it is titled as the same bike. Wreck it and need a new frame and then you get a new frame # and a lot of paperwork.

The frame ID is what determines what the bike is.

I'm considering taking over a long term project bike and few if any pieces would be original by the time it's running again

Click to expand...

I'm in this boat too. I've been collecting bits and piece for a sidecar tug project for a couple of years now and am just about set to start assembly.

If I build my own frame, which I plan to, how does the state go about identifying the machine? There will be no "title" per se, and no "bill of sale" from a previous owner; just a receipt for tube and plate material from the steel yard.

Growing up in Indiana we had "Constructed Vehicle" VINs that were issued once a custom built vehicle passed a safety inspection that was performed by a local Law Enforcement Office in your driveway. You then created you own VIN tag with a set of alpha/numeric stamps on a metal strip and affixed it to the frame in two prescribed (by the State) places and you were good to go.

I'm guessing (and I am) that that ain't gonna be the way it is in California today.

Given all the custom chopper guys on the West Coast there has to be a method in place for California. Given some of the designs I've seen out there the engineering and safety hurdles can't be too high!