There is a 1970's i think, Kawasaki KZ400 I could pick up for free in Sacramento that belongs to a friend of mine. It's a project, seized brakes, carburetor trouble and all that. The body seems very nice though, some surface rust on the chrome and such but nothing that can't be easily fixed. Paint is all there too and it could shine up pretty decently. Thing is it isn't registered and the last time it was registered was in 1984 according to the sticker on the license plate! What would be involved in me getting this biatch registered after fixing it up and all that? Would it be worth it? I don't even have a motorcycle license but my buddies and I were talking about getting them over the summer... plus a project bike would be nice because it would take up barely any space in the garage. Anyone from another state who has experience in this sort of thing of course feel free to reply. Also any input on these KZ bikes would be very welcome.

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1985 CA 300D Turbo , 213K mi

Can't help you with the DMV. A room-mate of mine got a 70s Kawasaki as a trade for some work (also back in the 70s) and he didn't have any interest in driving it so he asked me to drive it now and then to keep it fresh until he could sell it. Well, if you insist. This might have been bigger than yours. I think it was a 3 cylinder 2 stroke (no, not a Saab engine ) and it was fast, fast.

Might be a good learning experience.

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1986 300SDL, 362K
1984 300D, 138K

In a real pinch, you can procure a title from International Title (out of Nevada, I think). I had to do this with a titleless Vespa I bought about ten years ago. At that time it cost ~$100 I think.

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1992 300D 2.5T
1980 Euro 300D (sadly, sold)
1998 Jetta TDI, 132K "Rudy"
1974 Triumph TR6
1999 Saab 9-5 wagon (wife's)

I've had a KZ1000 (police model) and a KZ600. Both early 80's late 70's. Both flew. I like the 600 better for in town and the 1000 was nice on the highway. They were the crotch rockets of their time. Can't beat free as a price.

Now the bad news. In my less Than fun dealings with the CaDMV I know you're looking at acquiring a title (easiest way to go) or having it checked out by the state police as to safety and then going through a buttload of paperwork to prove it's not stolen. Of course, being in the people's republic, each step of the process will cost you a not inconsiderable amount of cash. Also be prepared to pay some back registrations and some inoperable vehicle fees. CaDMV online has a lot of info on this or you can call the 800 number, wait on hold about a million years and talk to an extremely rude DMV employee who will wonder out loud why you don't already know the answers to the questions you're asking. You could also go to the DMV and wait in line and ask the clerk in person. Hopefully, you'll have better luck than I have. Be polite. Research what's involved before you sink any money into the bike. Then determine if the hassle and expense is worth it to you.

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-livin' in the terminally flippant zone