Originally Posted by yuma simon (Post 129710)

It might depend on which of the 50 states (okay, more likely 48) that you are starting in, but come to think about it, you are not coming to live here, just visit. There was a discussion about out of country registered bikes coming into the US, but as I live on the border with Mexico, I see plenty of Mexican plated cars and bikes that I know could not be registered that come into the US daily. Then again, I am fairly certain that they are mostly coming to shop or to visit relatives, and aren't staying for 3 months. I will say with 100% certainty that I am 99% sure that it can be done with few(ish) hassles. I don't know the details, but there must be potentially hundreds here who have done it and can detail it for you.

Originally Posted by mmaarten (Post 130047)

I agree with Patrick,

Originally Posted by yuma simon (Post 129870)

It seemed like ytc1 stated it best to just keep your mouth shut. I have not had time to ask my US Customs Agent friend the procedure they follow at the local US/MEX crossing, but I have seen cars and bikes that are most likely commuters coming across for the day or weekend with Mexican plates but these are vehicles that are NOT available here, and would most likely not be US compliant. I have seen a British plated BMW convertible (automobile)in California this past summer. I think that once you get into the country,your bikes go through importation, and like the poster said on the XJR forum, just keep quiet while speaking with the person who is processing the importation papers for the bikes; the less they know, the better!

Originally Posted by mollydog (Post 129875)

As a visitor on a tourist Visa you will have ZERO problems with the bikes.
Anyone can enter the USA with their vehicle for the duration of their visit
as long as you have proof of ownership and a plate of some kind. Lights and stuff should work, but the bikes will not be inspected by anyone. You will pass right through.

Canadians drive NON compliant Canadian spec cars into the USA thousands per day. Many vacation and stay for months. Same with Mexico and even Euro folk...although these are rare.

What you CANNOT do is register the bike in the US. At least not in California.
But you're not doing that....so no worries.

Be sure to bring something that shows you have insurance....even if its a UK company. They may provide coverage or you may want to get coverage
in the US from a US company ($$$$). US insurance companies don't like
foreigners much and charge accordingly. But just have something to show The Man if you get pulled...they will ask for : Driving license, registration (log book) and proof of insurance. Being British you'll probably not be scrutinized closely unless you get a ***** Whistle for a cop.

Best

Patrick

Originally Posted by yuma simon (Post 130375)

Duh! I should have looked at your web site listed by your signature; had "ytc1" in there.

If you are planning to ride along the very southern part of the US, in Arizona, look me up. I live right next to where the US states of Arizona and California, as well as the Mexican states of Baja Norte and Sonora all meet. While it sounds like it would be such an exciting place due to all the meeting borders (o.k., sarcasm) there are some good sights to see. However, it will be very HOT here, as in near 50 Celsius HOT around that time, so it might be best to avoid this area until about early to mid October.

Originally Posted by mollydog (Post 130383)

Not sure you need "original" paper work. Just your current, up to date log book. Honestly, I think you'll find they won't be too bothered. Remember to
state you are "just passing through" and don't plan to Import the bike or
become a resident. You are a tourist in transit. Nothing more.

I had heard of a UK company that provides USA cover, sorry, no idea whom.
If you have a hard time with this or its very very expensive, consider bring your insurance ID from the UK and using that to show. Just tell them you've
extended the policy to cover in the USA. That should be all any Policeman
will need to hear or see. I doubt they will push the issue.

Best of luck with the trip and please post back your experience coming through customs/immigration.

Patrick:scooter:

Originally Posted by SteveAttwood (Post 130443)

Bruce,
The usa sea and airports treat imports differntly to land boarders. If you are dealing with customs at a sea / air port ask for a tempary import permit for the bike, it last for 12 months. the bikes need to be registared in the UK, should be taxed as well but they don't always ask for that. Buy insurance when you get there any bike shop should be able to do that. Make sure you have good health insurance that covers riding bikes.
Have a good time
Steve