Inviting comments/advice from anybody that has experience going through the process of repairing and registering a repairable write off. I am going to try it in SA but it seems the rules are pretty common across all states.
The bike I'm looking at has some cosmetic damage, but the rules state you have to "fix" even the cosmetic damage. The frame has a few scratches, just need a touch up. The clutch and gear levers are broken, plus a few other simple bolt on pieces need changing. Frame is straight, forks are straight. Won't need to dismantle the bike or involve an engineer.
It probably would be a good score for you, and fairly cheap to fix. You could then turn around and flog it off for a tidy profit if you wanted to, or maybe keep it for your wife to ride. If you're after some original HD levers, send me a PM.
Thanks Chopa, I wasn't aware of a possible time limit. I will check that out. I did confirm that SA honour the repairable write off status issued by another state, and they can't/won't overrule it and reclassify it as a stat write off. SA roadworthy assessors made it clear that you must provide copies of the auction house (or insurance assessor) photos to determine the extent of the damage when you bring it to them for the roadworthy inspection. They will not accept photos from anybody else. The auction house photos are worse quality than a 5 year old could achieve with a disposable camera. Out of focus, sun in the lens, no close ups, etc. So I'm not sure they will be able to form any conclusion other than the bike was written off because the gear lever was bent, clutch lever was broken, mirrors are missing, engine casing is scratched and the frame is scratched. But they will accept "progress" photos from the owner/repairer, after the repair has been initiated. For the scratched frame, they told me to just take a photo of the frame after it had been prepped and primed, before the top coat is applied.
Seen late model Harleys sold on gumtree which were repairable write offs and sellers were not mentioning where the bikes had come from, wanting full price too. Do a vehicle search even if the guy looks offended, "buyer beware".
Great post great reading thanks bloodog