My bike's been out of action since last December due to a suspected bad ignition computer, and a lack of funds to repair it (thanks much, global financial crisis). The registration expired in January and since I couldn't afford to get it fixed I let it lapse. Tomorrow's the day I can finally afford to get it seen to so I had to make arrangements to legally ride it to the dealer, about 45 mins away.
In this country to drive an unregistered vehicle you need to get a day permit plus "compulsory third party insurance" (CTP) for the day. I was told the permit would cost a little over $20, and figured since 6 months insurance is $150 that one day's insurance would be about $10 at most.
How wrong can you be? Try $67!
I almost decided to risk riding it without the permit till I remembered how much the fine would be if I got caught, then had a bright little idea and spoke to the insurance girl again. Apparently if I take out 6 months insurance, then cancel it the same day I get a full refund, no questions asked. Plus with the full insurance all I need is a completed registration application form and I can ride to a mechanic for a road-worthiness certificate
without the permit, on the assumption that I'll then be going straight to the transport department for a number plate!
So I got my CTP and my form dated from tomorrow, will take it to the dealer then cancel the CTP the same day, saving me $23 for the permit and $67 for the insurance which is $90 I'd much rather put towards buying a new ignitor than into the hands of an insurance company. Amazing what a little creative thinking can do.
