Advice

monkey-boy1980

Hi there, I wasnt sure where to post this so thought id put it here...

I have been considering a new bike for some time now but havent been able to part with my money (especially as my job has been at risk) but I have just been offered a Giant Trace X1 (2008) Bike for £900. The bike looks immaculate in the pictures I have seen and the person selling the bike is a good friends work collegue (and I know my friend wouldnt want me to buy a stolen bike and he is also a biker).

I need some advice on how to ensure I am not buying a stolen bike! Should I ask for the serial number and check with the police (although I dont want to waste there time) or would Giant themselves be able to tell me if the bike is registered stolen. Or what else can I do?

The last thing I want to do is feed these thieving scumbags so really want to make sure the bike I want to part with my hard earned cash for is legit!!!

Mods, if this is in the wrong section please feel free to move.

Thanks,
mark

stu8975

If whoevers selling it hasnt got proof of purchase (ie receipt/ credit/debit card statement), ask where they bought it from and when (check the shop actually sells them), ask at the shop (with sellers details) if they can verify the purchase...if not, get the frame/serial no (as much info as possible - upgrades the bike has got etc.), then enquire with the police to see if anyone has reported it stolen. If the original owner registered it with giant and also reported it stolen to them, then they may be able to verify....you will need the frame/serial no. though....tip..if you get the frame no. you can input it in the Giant website (the section for registering your bike) and it will verify if its the actual bike (just in case its a made up frame no.).