Buying a Used Bike? Check Its History and Frame Number First

A cheap second-hand bike is a bargain — unless it turns out to be stolen, in which case you can lose both the bike and your money. A few minutes of checking before you pay protects you and helps starve the trade in stolen bikes.

1. Get the frame number up front

Ask for the frame number before you view. Then search it on the register and check the Lost & Stolen board. If it's flagged as stolen, walk away and report it.

2. Check the details match

Does the make, model, size and spec match what the seller says? Are there upgrade marks or repairs the seller can explain? A genuine owner knows their bike; a thief usually doesn't.

3. Ask for proof and a receipt

Ask for the original receipt or proof of purchase, and always get a dated receipt for your own purchase with the seller's name and the frame number on it. That receipt is your evidence of good faith if questions ever arise.

4. Meet safely

Meet in a public place in daylight, ideally somewhere with cameras. Be wary of anyone who wants to meet somewhere quiet or rushes the sale.

Selling instead?

Register your bike, keep its history clean, and hand the buyer the frame number and receipts. A transparent history sells a bike faster and for more — and marks you out as the genuine owner.