Gumtree has teamed up with British Transport Police and BikeRegister to offer its users hints and tips on choosing the right bike and helping to keep it secure when they find one.

An email from Gumtree is now generated when users of the online auction site browse the bike category for a potential purchase.

Tips on how to buy a bike with confidence, how to check its condition and how to register a new bike are all available.

Gumtree advises:

:: Ask the seller for the frame and/or BikeRegister reference
number. Then check it against BikeRegister.

:: Compare the price against other listings of the same make
and model, if it seems too good to be true, proceed with caution.

:: Once you buy the bike, register and security mark it. Include photos of its distinguishing marks with BikeRegister to safeguard it from theft and help the police return it to you in the event of it going missing.

:: Invest in two good quality locks, preferably Sold Secure Gold rated. Secure the frame and both wheels to an immovable object.

:: When you park your bike in public, secure it in well-lit areas, ideally with CCTV in operation, and take removable parts with you such as GPS, lights and even saddles.

:: Take the same precautions when storing your bike. Inside or outside your home, particularly if it’s in an outside shed. 

For further information and images contact: Jodie Fisher, Marketing Executive for Selectamark.

Phone: +44 (0)1689 487829
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @bikeregister