Since I don't have a garage I've been working around the weather, but it's fairly easy to do the rims. I use this stuff called Zip-Strip industial strength paint remover, it's only a couple of dollars. It takes @ 15 min to get the paint to the point where you can just wipe off with steel wool. Then it's just a matter of polishing up with metal cleaner. I'm in the military so we don't pay the same prices as the Japanese do when it comes to vehicles. You do have limits to your license though, and the higher CC of your bike the more competent you are supposed to be. Insurance is crazy out here, but riding is a better experience. Since traffic is so bad they give bikes (motorcycles, scooters and pedal bikes) the right of way. From what I hear you never want to hit anyone walking or riding anything with 2 wheels.