BMW VINs same on European and US BIKes
 

Hi,

I've recently purchased a 1997 R1000R in England, where it is registered. I own an R1150GS in the U.S. on my US license.

I did not think it would be a huge problem, but I've been unable to find someone to insure me on a UK registration with a US license and international permit.

My question, (I'm out of hope of finding an insurer), is the VIN on a European BIke the same as a U.S.? If it is, I can just go to my local DMV, (they don't require a title on a vehicle over 15 years old), with the VIN, register it here, and get Green Card insurance. If the Vins are different I have an issue.

I'm open to any other suggestions or advice. Thanks very much.

Yes, they are different. At least according to RealOEM.com Online BMW Parts Catalog that identifies my airhead as European as opposed to USA.

However, is that actually important? If nobody needs to see a title on a bike over 15 years old then can't you say that it was imported into your country at some point in the past ?

There are plenty of threads covering insurance issues in the UK for non europeans, not sure if there was actually a solution, but it's worth a search.

Good luck.

A.

VINs are country specific.

Insurance in the UK is very hard to get as non-resident; ADAC in Germany seem more reasonable; there seem to be a few work arounds if you search the fora.....

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They do green card insurance