Claiming an 'abandoned' motorbike...

[Richie616]

A friend of my sisters asked if he could keep a motorcycle in her shed for a while whilst he went abroad. That was 3 years ago and she has not heard from him since. She now wants rid of the vehicle and has asked me if I want it (legal entitlement permitting). Does anyone know if it is legally possible to get hold of a V5 in my name and, if so, how I go about doing it? I suspect the bike has never been SORN'd. Thanks.

[Richie616]

No, definately not stolen - she knew him for some time beforehand and he rode the motorcycle around quite often.

[Ankou]

you need a V62 form and it will cost you £25 to get a logbook.

you can get the form from a dvla office or online as a pdf.

if the bike is on the dvla system, then the current registered keeper will be sent a letter by the dvla. if they don't reply then the V5 may be transferred to you - but you will need to check this beforehand.

the bike will need to be mot'd, then insured then taxed.

[Richie616]

I have spoken with DVLA who have stated that it'll be no problem becoming the registered keeper - they will notify the old keeper at the held address and if a response is not forthcoming then will issue me the V5. The only problem I have now is ensuring it is HP clear! No websites seem to have details of the bike given the reg number. Even DVLA only have a 'partial' record?!

[Richie616]

Oh, they also said I would only be liable for tax from the date of the V5 issue. I will be the registered 'keeper' but not necessarily the vehicle owner.

[Richie616]

Thanks. This bike's a KTM 640 Adventure so, as you can imagine, i'm quite keen to see it through....

[JonnyBoy12]

What did the motorbike say when it fell over?

I can't get up; I am two tyred!

Sorry not to give you a sensible answer, but this joke sprang to mind.

[StephenG]

Thank you all, the learned, Richie616 and Ankou, safe hands of Eddie 51 and comic genius Jonnyboy 12. Oh and the Diubting thomas that is Mdop98

Thanks
Steve

[Richie616]

Just as a quick update, I submitted the V62 and cheque about 4 weeks ago and have yet to get a response. The £25 has, however, been cleared from my account so assume they are about to issue the V5. Fingers crossed!

[Richie616]

Not sure if anyone is still interested.....
... but DVLA sent me a letter yesterday refusing the issue of a V5 stating that the original registration was issued for export!!? DVLA have told me to fill in a V55/5 but, even though the bike has never left the country, I now have to find a way of importing it without any original paperwork.

Any suggestions anyone?

[Richie616]

Oh, and the £25 cheque they cashed will be reinbursed 'within 4 weeks, but wait up until 6 before contacting us'!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!