Can I check if a bike is stolen?

BikeVAULT’s National Bike Register (NBR) is a free community service where bike owners can enter their bike’s details. In case your bike gets stolen, it can be tracked and returned to you (the owner).

Where do thieves sell stolen bikes?

Check ebay, Gumtree, craigslist. Check out the listings on ebay, Gumtree and craigslist. Thieves will often try to sell stolen bikes through these sites.

Is the bike I just bought stolen?

Check the serial number The serial number can be checked within databases like Bike Index or Bike Register, so if the bike has been registered as stolen you can then take steps to involve the police. If the serial number has been filed off or covered in any way, this is also a sure sign that the bike was stolen.

Are stolen bikes covered by insurance?

Generally, any accessories such as tyres and wheels won’t be covered unless the bike is stolen or damaged in the same incident. Theft also often won’t be covered if: you didn’t use an approved lock to secure your bike frame to an immovable object (whether you’re out and about or at home).

How do I make sure my bike is not stolen?

8 tips to prevent bicycle theft

1. Double up your security by using two high-quality locks.
2. Use your locks to keep your wheels from being stolen, too.
3. Swap quick-release seat and wheel skewers for ones that require keys.
4. Make your bike unique.
5. Try out a smart lock.
6. Always bring your bike inside at night.

Why do thieves steal bikes?

Acquisitive: These thieves steal bicycles for financial gain and usually trade them for cash or goods. The bikes may also be sold in pieces for drugs or money. In Portland, Oregon bike thieves are often drug addicts who provide stolen bicycles to drug dealers in exchange for drugs.

How do I theft proof my bike?

How to Keep Your Bike From Getting Stolen

1. Be wary of cable locks, which are easily chopped with wire cutters.
2. Always bring your bike inside at night.
3. Two or three locks (even cables) are better than one.
4. Never lock your bike to a tree.
5. Park your bike with other bikes when you lock it up.

What bike is stolen the most?

As far as brands taken, there’s little surprise to see two of the so-called ‘big three’ in Bikmo’s most stolen – Giant and Specialized. A second bicycle insurer corroborates the finding; PedalSure also name the two brands as their most wanted by thieves.

Why do bikes get stolen?

Another reason theft is so prevalent is that locks haven’t kept pace with the times. The ones that do work can be so expensive or so heavy that they actually deter people from riding in the first place. GPS trackers can locate a stolen bike, but do nothing to stop thieves who only want to strip its parts.

Is it worth reporting stolen bike?

Whilst only 4% of bikes are recovered, it’s important that the police have accurate figures so they can allocate resources to fight bike crime. In London it may also be worth reporting the theft to the Cycle Task Force. Ideally, attach a picture of your stolen bike.

How do you make sure a bike is not stolen?

The easiest way is to ask for the serial number via phone or email before you meet up. Most serial numbers are under the frame on the bottom bracket shell. If your seller can’t find it there, suggest these other locations. It’s very rare for a bike to be without one, so if the seller won’t provide it, assume the worst.