I was wondering why the 2012 Wing would go to the UK via the USA? Why not just from Japan to the UK?
The reason we always import GL1800 from the use to the UK is that when the european model does become available there are some differences , e.g., rear lights, sound amplifier, front speakers,colour, no rear speakers, and no CB loom to name a few. As some of us ride in groups the CB is useful although AM is illegal in the UK!
So we import a USA model not a European model from the US to the UK not a easy task and each year it's getting harder... (had 7 1800's)my 2012 is sat dockside at NY awaiting a sailing to Thames Port London. As its 5,000 miles away it's difficult to control.
There may well be 1000 riding with car tyres on the gold wings in the USA bit firsts its illegal in the UK and second i don't think many riders would consider it on our roads.But if it works for you chaps thats fine.:thumbup::thumb up:
Just want to see mine and get it sorted, there is a lot to do when it arrives its not just like getting one from a dealer.... thats to easy for us USA model wing owners, we have to change a few things
first we have to apply for SVA single vehicle approval scheme
Without this approval, vehicles can't be registered for use in Great Britain.
we have to install a single front facing light on the fairing ( we use a small stick on light) we have to change the indicators... and the hazard lights and are Other small changes. Good that the emissions etc give us no trouble..
Here is the daft part when we apply for a a SVA we can ride the bike to the SVA centre 30 mile from my home. This could be any bike Indian, Russian, what ever (remember the main reason for sva is (UK Road Worthiness ) after inspection and certification, we then have to apply to the DVLA for a V5 log book and Bike road tax registration... Hers the daft bit even though your SVA has come back good you can't ride the bike to the DVLA tax office if they request to see it! So you have to trailer or van it there!
Then after paying for the DVLA V5 and tax disc we can apply for insurance and then finally get the wing on the road as a registered UK bike.When i bough my BMW GSA last September i felt quite spoiled just rolling up and riding away on a taxed and registered new bike lol
It will be interesting to see what tyres are shod on the new 2012 European model wing when they announce it in September i believe ? We sometimes have different tyre brands....none of em last long enough on any of my bikes anyway.