Penalty for unregistered riding in Cal?

[nick5446]

I just moved to San Jose from Mass and I want to take my bike out for a quick ride in Hollister to see what it's all about...problem is is that my bike isn't registered in CA, (it is in MA). I have every intention of registering it, but in order to do that I need to change my license, and when I do that, I'll need to change my truck registration and insurance which is all more than I feel like doing right now (I JUST got here) and I'm not even certain how long I'll be living in the apartment I'm in, so I'm not trying to change my permanent address just yet. Question is, is it worth the risk for a day of riding? What kind of trouble am I looking at if I get pinched? If I get to ride all day for a $25 ticket it'll probably be worth it, but if my bike gets impounded and I have to go to court or something, then probably not. Can I just ride on my legal, legitamate Mass registration in Cal until it expires?

Thanks in advance,
~Nick

 

[dirt bike dave]

I think there are provisions for out of state bikes with a current out of state registration to ride legally. You could call the Hollister Hills State Vehicle Receration Area, or check out the state's website for SVRA's for more info.

FWIW, you will need a spark arrestor and may be subject to a sound check.

I don't think they would impound you or fine you if you have a valid Mass reg. If they had a problem with it, they would probably just not let you ride.

BTW, in CA you are supposed to change your car's registration within a few weeks of moving into the state. It can be an expensive ticket if you get caught. If you are active duty military, you may be exempt.

 

[ignition retard]

I'd say you should call the government bureau that issues the citations, and ask them. If it's ok then I'd put off registering anything in that socialist state. As long as you can still recieve mail in MA then you could just be visiting.

 

[stumanarama]

I live in san jose too. Any state park like hollister will check for a green sticker. Metcalf however is county owned and operated. all they care about is your disclaimer and your six dollar parking fee. Welcome to the bay area.

 

[rickyd]

I don't know what Metcalf is like now, but a few years ago I took the kid there. We were 1 day into the red/green sticker deal. The ranger walked by as we were getting dressed and he saw his bike and asked us to leave.

Welcome to The Bay :cool: