Buying a used motorcycle can be an exciting experience, but it's crucial to ensure you're not unknowingly purchasing stolen property. This guide outlines several steps you can take to verify a motorcycle's legitimacy before handing over any money. Failing to do so could lead to significant legal and financial trouble.
Verifying the Motorcycle's History: Key Steps
Before you even test ride the bike, take these proactive steps to protect yourself:
1. Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN):
The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that acts as the motorcycle's fingerprint. It's usually located on the steering head (near the handlebars), the frame, and sometimes on the engine. This number is essential for verifying the bike's history.
- Why it's important: A stolen motorcycle will often have a tampered-with or falsified VIN. Discrepancies in the VIN reported by the seller and the physical VIN on the motorcycle are a major red flag.
2. Run a VIN Check Through a Reputable Service:
Several online services specialize in providing vehicle history reports. These reports often include information on:
- Title history: This will show if the motorcycle has ever been declared a total loss, salvaged, or reported stolen.
- Accident reports: Knowing if the motorcycle has been in an accident can help you assess its overall condition and potential hidden damage.
- Odometer readings: This verifies the mileage displayed on the odometer. Discrepancies here can indicate tampering.
Choosing a reputable VIN check service is critical. Look for services with positive customer reviews and a clear history of accuracy.
3. Inspect the Motorcycle's Documentation:
Thoroughly examine all paperwork associated with the motorcycle. This includes:
- Title: The title should match the VIN on the motorcycle and reflect the seller's ownership. Any inconsistencies are cause for serious concern.
- Bill of sale: A clear bill of sale should document the sale transaction, including the VIN, purchase price, and date of sale.
Missing or incomplete documentation is a significant warning sign.
4. Contact Local Law Enforcement:
If you have any doubts after completing a VIN check and reviewing the documentation, contact your local police department or sheriff's office. They can verify if the motorcycle has been reported stolen. Provide them with the VIN and any available documentation.
- Why this is important: Law enforcement agencies have access to databases that track stolen vehicles. This is the most definitive way to confirm a motorcycle's legitimacy.
5. Beware of "Too Good to Be True" Deals:
A motorcycle priced significantly below market value should raise a red flag. While occasional bargains are possible, an unusually low price can be an indicator of a stolen bike.
Preventing Motorcycle Theft:
Even after purchasing a used motorcycle, taking precautions against theft is crucial:
- Invest in a high-quality lock: Use a sturdy chain lock or disc lock to deter thieves.
- Park in well-lit areas: Making the motorcycle less accessible reduces the risk of theft.
- Consider GPS tracking: GPS trackers provide an additional layer of security and can help locate your motorcycle if it's stolen.
By diligently following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing a stolen motorcycle and protect yourself from potential legal and financial complications. Remember, due diligence is paramount when buying a used motorcycle. A little extra investigation upfront can save you a lot of heartache down the road.
