Just another data point. My cousin needed to renew his Class M license after he let it lapse, so he had to redo the physical test. He borrowed my DRZ and rode it from my house over to the DMV in El Cajon for his appointment. The bike at the time had a non-DOT MX tire on the front. He said they didn't even give it a glance and he passed the test.
I agree AAA is the easiest, but my last visit to the DMV shocked me- it was reasonable, courteous and business-like. In and out without appointment in 20 mins for title transfer/new plates.
I made an appointment for inspection at the DMV. They just verified the VINs to makes sure it was indeed street legal and the vehicle was what I said). They then gave me a plate and created a new title for me. The Bill of Sale and statement of facts forms are available online from the DMV website.
I'd start with using the DMV online registration calculator for a used vehicle purchase. Something should show up. If not, make an appointment, drag the bike down there and have them complete whatever forms they need. They can look at the bike that way and do the VIN verification if needed and see if it comes up in their computer.
I have to renew my driver’s license in October. How long are the waits for an appointment? I’m in NW Raleigh. How early should I try to make an appointment? The DMV website says no availability for most sites and no option to check a few months out. The sites with availability don’t seem to have a working calendar, like Greensboro. I’m in Raleigh. WTF. LOL.