CA title transfer ?'s

I'm picking up a used bike from a private party. I'm new to CA and a little unsure about the title transfer procedure (the damn DMV website seems to contradict itself...). Do buyer AND seller need to go to the DMV office to complete the title transfer or does the buyer only need to go after the title is properly signed by the seller? Also, the bike has a new exhaust and some other minor mods. Are their any emissions regulations involving bikes that might hinder me registering the bike?

does the seller haave the title? if so i think he/she can just sign the back of it showing transfer of owner ship. I know its probably a little dfferent here in vermont but i just purchased a used vehicle and had to have the following dmv forms filled out in addition to having the title signed over to me: 1) Application for title transfer and tax form and 2) an odometer disclosure statement (just verifying how much mileage is on the clock at the time of sale). 3) and bill of sale form showing chain of ownership. But the buyer and seller have to sign each of the three forms. All of em should be available on the DMV website. sorry...forgot to add...so if you get the seller to sign all the forms it shouldnt be necessary for you and the seller to go to the DMV

in CA. all you need is the title signed by you(buyer) and the person you bought it from(seller), the mileage and amount of bike filled out take this to DMV and dont forget insurance. oh yeah put that you bought the bike for $200 to save on taxes. the seller is responsible for release of ownership

yeah the thing here in vt though with taxes is they make you pay the taxes on the NADA book value. Not on what you paid for it. I bought a vehicle not too long ago for 5000. I had to pay the tax on the NADA value which was 10500. Lol I was like do you guys have lube? cause i didnt bring any. But knowing the DMV they probably get 55 gallon drums of it and throw sand in it! :lol: