Parallel imports

[ZX12R]

Money saved or just a BIG headache ? Any comments / experiences / good dealers ?

[byke95]

I looked into this a few weeks ago - wanted to import a 2003 Z1000 from the states. Basically after shipping and her majesty stinging me for 23.5% on top of the price of the bike (17.5% VAT and 6% import duty) the savings to be had were not really worth it (taking into account time and effort and possible re-sale affects).

As for getting from a place that imports the bike for you and sells it in the UK market the only way is to ring around!

Good luck!

[Demonic69]

Can be good if you're looking for one a bit older and laready imported.
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Back on a Blade. Just feels so right.

[Finglonga]

Bought a new imported ZRX1100 and saved a few quid.

But unless you plan to keep the bike a while don't bother, as people wont pay much for second hand imports.

I lost over £500 against the same age/condition official UK bike.

If you do go down that road check the usual.....Headlight dips the correct way, speedo is UK spec reads MPH and the mileometer is in miles not Kilometeres. Most importers just put a sticker on the glass (which will fail the MOT). Also check the engine is not restricted as some models come into the country from places where there is a cap on the amount of horse power a bike can put out. Finally check the warranty covers the same things as a UK warranty would e.g Full engine/gearbox failure. Very rare but if it happens and your not covered it will cost you a fortune.

As usual its a case of buyer beware!

Oh yea I got mine from D&K In Stoke, Make sure you know exactly what you want before you go in as you may leave with a completely different bike that you went in for.
Some salesmen apply more pressure than others and seem to know what bike you want even if you didn't know you wanted it.
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Andy Sez....
F.Y.Y.F.F.