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Do you know how to spot a ringed bike?

Jayne Henry
Motoring UK

 

Motorbike

Motorbike

How to spot a ringed bike:

  • Check the frame/engine numbers and VIN plate against the log book, even on a bike sold by a dealer
  • Check that the stamping style and letter/number form is exactly the same as another bike of that make
  • If it has been ringed the police can seize your bike and you get nothing
  • Don’t rely on HPI or MCN checks- they’re useful but can’t detect bikes that have been

Advice on spotting a ringed bike:

1. Location – if you are buying privately make sure you view it at the registered keeper’s address (as shown on the V5 registration document).

2. Provenance – always check the history of the car or bike. Check that the VIN number on the vehicle and on the V5 are the same and that they match the VIN on an HPI check.

3. Documents – make sure the V5, the MOTs and the service history are with the vehicle (if it is over three years old for the MOT).  

4. Price – know the market value of the vehicle. If you paying 30% less than what the bike is really worth then you should be on your guard.

5. Payment – don’t pay with a substantial amount of cash if the vehicle costs more than £3,000. Some criminals will take a bankers draft as part-payment with the high cash deposit and then disappear because the cash is sufficient profit.

Can you think of any other advice?