Check your bike's frame number: Here's how to do it!

Buying a used bike can be a smart way to save money, but it also comes with risks. One of the biggest concerns is unknowingly purchasing a stolen bike. Fortunately, you can prevent this by checking the bike's frame number in various databases before purchasing. In this article, we explain step by step how to do that and why it is so important.

What is a frame number and where can you find it?

A frame number is a unique identification number that is engraved or stamped on the frame of a bicycle. This number is essential to register, identify and report a bicycle in the event of theft. The frame number is usually located in the following places:

• Under the bottom bracket (where the pedals meet)
• On the saddle tube (under the saddle)
• On the front fork (the part that supports the front wheel)

For more details on exactly where to find the frame number, read our article Where is the frame number on a bike?.

Step 1: Gather the information you need

Before you can check a bike, you need the bike's frame number. If you already have the bike, you can find the frame number in one of the places mentioned above. In addition, write down the make and model of the bike; this can help confirm the bike's identity in the database.

Step 2: Check frame number in different databases

There are several reliable databases where you can check whether a bike is registered as stolen. Here are the most important ones:

1. Stop Healing
   • Stop Heling is a national database where you can enter the bike's frame number to check if the bike has been registered as stolen. This database is maintained by the government and contains information about stolen goods, including bicycles. Go to Stop Heling to carry out the check.
2. RDW Bicycle Theft Register
   • The RDW (National Road Traffic Office) manages a bicycle theft register where you can check whether a bicycle is registered as stolen. This register contains reports of stolen bicycles made after 1 January 2008. You can enter the frame number to see if the bike has been reported stolen. Visit RDW Bicycle Theft Register for more information.
3. BIKEBAZE
   • BIKEBAZE offers an extra layer of security by linking your bike's frame number to a unique SafeTag and your name. If you have registered your bike with BIKEBAZE, it will be easier to find it in case of theft. You can easily check the status of your bike via the BIKEBAZE database.

Step 3: What do the results mean?

• Yes, the bike was stolen: If the database states that the bike has been registered as stolen, you must cancel the purchase (otherwise heling!) and report the situation to the police. If you see the contact details of the rightful owner, please contact this person as well. This is because this can be seen when you look for a bike via BIKEBAZE.
• No, the bike has not been registered as stolen: This means that there is no known theft report for this bike. Please note that this does not provide an absolute guarantee that the bike has not been stolen, as not all thefts are reported or registered.

Step 4: Complete the purchase or report it to the police

If the situation is not suspicious, you can proceed with the purchase. Keep the frame number safe so that you can report it immediately in case of theft.

Always report theft

If you ever become a victim of bicycle theft, it's important to always report it. By filing a report, your bike is registered in the databases mentioned, which increases the chance that the bike will be found and the thief will be caught.

Protect your bike with BIKEBAZE!

Have you purchased a bike that is not registered with BIKEBAZE yet? Then make sure you do this right away! Simply register your bike via www.bikebaze.nl/shop and add an extra layer of security with our unique SafeTag.

A simple sticker can make a big difference. Not only does it help you find your bike in the event of theft, but it also deters thieves. Protect your bike and enjoy every ride with BIKEBAZE without worries!

Don't forget to check where your bike's frame number is in our article Where is the frame number on a bike?.