1988 Katana 1100 Issues

[GSX1100F]

I purchased a 1988 Kat 1100 from a friend of a friend. The guy I bought it from (Ed) was holding the bike and selling it for his friend (Tank) who I have never met. I trusted Ed because my friend trusted him. I trusted Tank because he is a police officer and Ed trusted him. Long story short I gave Ed $600 for a non running bike and he promised me that Tank would give me the title. Fast forward 1 year and I have put $700 in to the bike. Got it running. Still needs fork seals, tires, a new chain, and carbs but it does run. Problem... Can't ride it with no plates. Can't get plates without a title. I have tried selling it with no title as a parts bike but can't get $600 for it. Tried to get a title but the state of Missouri won't give me one. They say I can apply for an abandoned property title and if the previous owner doesn't come forward with a title in 30 days the bike is mine. If the previous owner produces a title and demands the bike I am out $1300.00. Suggestions...?

[BIGKAT1100]

With a bike that old, you should be able to get tags on a bill-of-sale. In a lot of states that would be all you need for something that old. If that doesn't get then you prolley need to "lean" on your "associates" a little more "passionately" for the paperwork.

my .02

Andre'

[Steveb]

You might want to post this in a more general section...this really isn't an 1100 issue, this is a paperwork issue.
You'll get more responses.

[suzy1052]

See if you can get a bonded title.Ive done it twice in Iowa.Cost 100.00 each time.I actually prefer to buy a bike without the title now.Much much cheaper he he.

[Ronnie]

Find a frame with a title.Switch the parts over.