Kind of stinks that you had to be the test subject :?
I know there was no bad intentions on their part, but this still is a major inconvenience! :x
I couldn't believe this, but the Skyteam bikes, as distributed through SSR (I spoke with a guy from SSR and he told me that they are still Skyteam branded bikes) are streetable and able to be registered in California.
i.e.
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv...092118241.html
My thinking is; what if this was going to be your only means of transportation, BKABQ? There are people who cannot afford cars, or expensive bikes. Then again, mail order might not be the best option if that was the case. Good luck on your saga!