I am thinking of building a 1980 1000. The question I have is i have a lot of parts for it already. I have the frame bill of sale. It was given to me for a dollar. no title. How has will it be togged it registered I have no motor If that helps. It will be my first complete build. Thanks in advance. I was not sure where to ask this question.

 

For all 1970 and later motorcycles the title goes with the frame. So if you have proper frame title document you are good to go with any engine that you install. I think that a bill of sale is not a proper frame title document. Must be the real thing.

In various states you can get away with things that are not perfect according to the national laws, but travel thru a different or more strict state and the bike may be impounded never to be returned to you.

It happened with a forum member just a few years ago - he had had the bike for several years, had spent a lot of money on it, it was returned to the last registered owner of the frame, total loss to the recent "owner".

Best to research this topic further, consult with local or state vehicle registration offices, state police, etc.

FYI: To build a 1200 cc IronHead from a 1000 cc you will have to stroke the engine. This is an enormously complex and expensive task requiring the builder to have a lot of experience and expertise.

You can not gain cubic centimeters by over boring these engines. Boring is limited to repair of worn or damaged cylinders.

 

All states are different regarding how hard or how easy it is to get a bike titled and registered, if it has no existing title.

Starting in 1970, bikes are titled by the number stamped in the neck of the frame. After 1969, the numbers on the motor aren't used in issuing a title, so not having a motor makes no difference in the titling process, since your frame is a 1980.

Before I spent any money on this build, I'd contact your local DMV or whoever issues vehicle titles in Georgia and talk to them about what you need for documentation on your bike. They should be able to tell you how difficult it will be to get a title for it and get it registered, if all you have is a bill of sale. In some states it's relatively easy, in others it's a very difficult and time consuming process that doesn't always succeed in the end.

Maybe someone else from Georgia will chime in who's been down this road already.

Edit: Simultaneous posting with IronMick!

 

Thank you for answering quickly. I am really new at this and don't want to make a mistake. I meant 1000 not 1200 sorry for the confusion.

 

Cool. Just have to check out further the Title process in your state. Hope it all works out fairly easy.

FYI: What some guys have been able to do in the past if they are in a difficult state is get a title in a different state then transfer it. There have been title companies that would do this for you for a fee. I do not know if this is still possible or if it is needed or possible in your state.

 

Check to see if you even need a title in your state. Where I live (Alabama), vehicles 35 years old or older don't need a title, just a bill of sale and a new registration in your name.

 

I called the tag office and was told I don't need a title. Just a bill of sale. Thank you guys I am going to start my build journey.