Around here I think you pay for a search which brings up last address the MV branch has on last registered owner, its like 25.00 or something.
Then you send a registerd letter to that address, if it comes back unopened, you then get a notarized statement that you legally bought the bike and they transfer it.
But you need a receipt.
My buddy gave two XS 11,s to another buddy, he has since put money into them and has one ready to go. However the buddy that owned them, (1 was registered with him since new) passed away shortly thereafter... his son became executor.. but has done nothing with the estate.. so we have to work that one out soon, and he did not get a receipt.. we will see how that goes soon..
BTW if you send reistered mail to someone that lost their stuff, they rarely open it or sign for it, even if they are still at the address..