Getting started, from scratch

[slipperypete]

Hi all,

Just found this site, have registered, and have three months to sort myself out.

I'm attending two weddings in Europe this summer - one in Denmark, another two weeks later in central France. Wouldn't it be great if I could get my hands on a bike and ride from A to B? Problem is, I have more questions than answers.

I land in Copenhagen, and fly out of Paris - which, I would think, makes any sort of rental no longer an option.

I'm not looking to get a major-league bike - I have lots of experience with 150cc scooters and auto-clutch bikes, and given the distance I'm travelling (under 1000km over 2 weeks) I don't need anything too serious (or expensive!).

If I were able to find a bike to purchase - would I even be able to get it registered/insured, and quickly? What sort of costs could I be looking at?

I'll leave the topic at that, for now. I just had the 'why don't you get a bike' idea planted in my head over the weekend, and your replies will serve as my starting point.

Thanks in advance for your tips!