grifforama

Hi,

My wife and I are relocating to New York in September, and I would love to know if anyone on this forum has exported a scooter to the States ?
I have a Vespa LX50 which I would love to bring over.
I understand it doies comply with US emissions standards, but I am eager to know if anyone else has done it ?

Thanks

Pimpbot

Just my opinion, but it would be a waste of time and money.

Rushman

I am in the process of shipping over a motorcycle and the bullshit you have to go through is unbelievable. You have to have a certification that the oil and fuel were thoroughly drained and then the thing has to be packed by a certified packing company (with a certification of packing) because of the possibility of fumes and vapours (even though they've been drained and cleaned). It is then considered "hazardous freight" and that involves even more paperwork bullshit.
To be honest, apart from the fact you'll get laughed off the streets by any self respecting biker you can also buy them in the US for less money than you can in the UK, so whats the point? If you get here and still want one (and actually have the nerve to ride it) then buy one here.

Rete

Guess it would depend where in New York you are planning on moving to. I would not recommend taking a scooter on any highway, parkway or thruway in or around New York City proper and the outlying 'burbs. You wouldn't last the month out without being totalled. It will be good for local street use in my honest opinion. You might always want to check out the criteria for a motorcycle license in New York State. Since the UK license is not transferable you will have to take a separate written and driving test for the scooter apart from a written and driving test for a regular driver's license.

Ben

totally agree with the others. Even local streets it isn't worth bothering with because NY is so populated it doesn't take long before you hit a busy road and you do not see these bike around so cars and trucks won't really know what to make of it. Unless you are going to be living in Upstate NY in the sticks then it isn't worth it. NYC and surrounding areas have pretty good public transport.

Another point actually is if you are moving to NYC, where would you house it? Garage fees are very expensive and I'm sure a local garage would enjoy charging you a small fortune for your little runaround. And if you lived in an apartment on the 5th or 10th floor I bet there would be fire regulations on having it in your apartment.

gardnma

They have a point.
I was in Upstate NY (in the sticks) and with a Vespa up there you are more likely to get it shot from under you by some drunken longilander with orange cammo's on.

.....of course, if you are sporting a parka with large target on the back......weeell......!!

scrubbedexpat097

Just being nosy...but what bike are you shipping over. (Big biker fan here!)

Ray

His bantam ..

scrubbedexpat097

Cool

Ray

Now I'm worried about you .........

scrubbedexpat097

I know I'm pathetic. Even worse, I remember BSA Bantams which makes me old and pathetic as well

Ray

Only if you can remember the post office using them for telegrams boys
to use....
Here are some better ones
http://www.brylliant.com/Photos_all_years.htm

scrubbedexpat097

Not a Harley girl. Our latest addition is a Triumph.

scrubbedexpat097

www.moto-net.com/images/triumph_rocket_pro.jpg

We are adding all the bells and whistles and soon it will be comfortable enough for a long road trip. Florida here we come, maybe

Ray

Its bleedin in Italian ........... They are not Triumphs
my 66 Tiger 100SS was a Triumph.......

http://www.vintagebike.co.uk/Bike%20...0SS%201964.htm