Hey guys,

First time poster, first time bike-owner from Weinan (A small city near Xi'an, Shaanxi). Here's my story:

I was a huge car nut in the UK. Loved my Hondas. Did a few engine swaps and car culture was a huge part of my life, but never even considered a motorbike. I moved to China and all that ended (No Chinese license, or car, or garage, etc.) Anyway, I've been in China for 2 years now, and I need to fulfil my need for speed.

So, a fellow-foreign-friend went out and bought a Honda CBF125. He did 0 research, and just got a mutual Chinese friend to buy it in the Chinese friend's name. Anyway, I'm into photography so I offered to take pics of his bike for him. While shooting, I got a chance to ride it. The bug bit me.

The very next day this foreign friend gets a job offer in Beijing, and he's going to take it, and offers me the bike for 6,000RMB. 2 weeks old with only 200kms on the clock.

So, this is where the questions start.

I wanna go legit. At the very least plates for the bike and insurance. Now, I'm not sure if my mutual-Chinese friend even got a FaPiao (tax-receipt) and I know that's maybe a required step for getting plates? Anyway; would it be easier for the friend to get the plates in *his* name; then "sell" me the bike? If so; is transfer of ownership easy? I have a residence permit with more than 6months remaining, and a long-term Chinese GF (could put it in her name if it's easier.)

What are your (experienced) suggestions? I know TIC, so any route may not be 'easy', but I'm after the easiest.
Also, I assume the price is good (I haven't bought it off him yet.) I looked on TaoBao, and they're around 8,500-9,500 new.

Attached are some pics of the bike. I know it's a girly 125, and it's technically not a 'Chinese' bike...but; hey: It makes me smile.

Thanks,
VTECsauce

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