Stolen fatbike check: How to check if a fat bike is fair

The popularity of fatbikes is enormous in the Netherlands, and unfortunately, so is the theft of them. Are you about to buy a second-hand fatbike via, for example, Marktplaats? Then a thorough stolen fatbike check is essential. Prevent unintentionally committing fencing (receiving stolen goods) and losing your money. At BIKEBAZE, we make this check simple and insightful.

By checking the unique frame number of the bike in a registry, you know immediately if the fatbike has been eported stolen by a previous owner. Enter the number in the search bar; a notification appears if there is a match in our database.

Why a fatbike check is mandatory for you

The trade in stolen fatbikes flourishes online. As a buyer, you run not only a financial but also a legal risk. In the Netherlands, you are legally protected as a buyer, but you also have obligations:

1. Criminal offense (Culpable fencing): Even if you "didn't know" the bike was stolen, you can be punishable. The law applies a "duty to investigate". This means that when purchasing a second-hand good (especially theft-prone goods like fatbikes), you must check if the origin is legitimate. Consulting a theft register is an important part of this investigation.
2. Bike and money lost: Is the stolen fatbike later found in your possession by the police? Then you are obliged to hand it over to the rightful owner. You will not get your purchase amount back and there is no right to compensation.

Een simpele check toont aan dat je van goede wil bent en beschermt je tegen deze risico's.

A simple check shows that you are acting in good faith and protects you against these risks.

Finding the frame number on your fatbike

‍To perform the check, you need the frame number. With fatbikes (such as Phatfour, Super73, Knaap, or Ouxi), this is sometimes in a different place than with ordinary city bikes. Check these locations:

• Underneath the bottom bracket: Turn the bike over carefully or look at the underside between the pedals.
• The head tube: On the front of the frame, the tube where the handlebars and front fork go through.
• Behind the battery: With some electric fatbikes, you have to remove the battery briefly; the number may be engraved behind it or be on a sticker.
• At the rear wheel suspension: Often on the inside of the swingarm.

Note: Is the frame number filed away, scratched through, sprayed over, or is the sticker removed? Then do not buy the bike. This is the clearest proof of theft.

Does the fatbike have a license plate?

Note: Is the fatbike a speed pedelec or a moped with a yellow or blue license plate? Then you must always check the license plate with the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) in addition to the frame number. These vehicles are registered by name.

BIKEBAZE: Together against bicycle theft

BIKEBAZE is a community-driven platform that tackles bicycle theft structurally.

• Check for free: You can check with us free of charge whether a bike has been reported missing or stolen by a user.
• International power: Fatbikes are often traded across the border. Our platform works internationally, which increases the chance of catching thieves and complicates the trade.

The fatbike seems 'clean': What now?

‍Does the check give no notification? That is a good sign, but remember that a check is always a snapshot. Do you decide to buy the bike? Then ensure that you do not become the next victim.

1. Register your bike immediately

‍At BIKEBAZE, bicycle registration is free. By recording your frame number, brand, model, and photos of your new fatbike, you claim your ownership. Should the bike ever be stolen, you can report this. The bike will then immediately appear as 'stolen' in the system for anyone performing a check. Scanners can then contact you and you receive the location where the bike was scanned.

‍Read also: 10 reasons why you should register your bike.

2. Secure your fatbike with SafeTags

‍Fatbikes are extremely popular among thieves. A chain lock alone is often not enough. BIKEBAZE therefore offers SafeTags. These are striking, tamper-resistant anti-theft stickers.

• Deterrent effect: Thieves see immediately that the bike is registered and cannot be traded anonymously. This makes your fatbike less attractive ("fencing-proof").
• Scannable: Honest finders or enforcers can scan the sticker with their smartphone to see the status of the bike, without your private details being immediately visible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I do if the frame number is illegible?

‍If the number has been filed away or made illegible, this is direct proof of malicious intent. Do not buy the bike and potentially inform the police. Without a frame number, you can also never insure the bike or register it in your name.

2. Is the BIKEBAZE check 100% foolproof?

‍No database contains all stolen bikes, because not everyone reports theft. However, by checking with BIKEBAZE (and possibly Stopheling.nl for police reports), you do fulfill your duty to investigate. Is it listed here as stolen? Then you know for sure you shouldn't buy.

3. What if the fatbike turns out to be stolen after my check?

‍Does the check give a 'hit'? Do not buy the bike. Inform the seller that the bike is registered as stolen (sometimes a seller doesn't know this themselves if they bought it second-hand earlier). In case of suspected intentional fencing, you can report this to the police. If possible, contact the rightful owner.

Together we make it difficult for thieves

‍Bicycle theft is a persistent problem, but together we can disrupt the trade in stolen goods. The more people register their fatbikes and perform checks before purchase, the more impossible it becomes for fences to sell their wares.

Are you about to buy a second-hand fatbike? Ask for the frame number, do the check, and fulfill your duty to investigate.

Do you already have a fatbike? Protect your investment! Register it today for free at BIKEBAZE and consider a SafeTag. Together we keep your fatbike safe.