Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - serial number question

i used the search and wasn't really able to find anything pertaining to this particular issue-- you'll see why as it's going to make me look really stupid.

the serial number on my fuji was on the bottom of the bottom bracket, and the paint was so thick i couldn't read parts of it. so i tried something that may make me look like a total dumbass... i took sandpaper to the paint to see if i could get down to the frame and see the serial number better. in doing this, it looks like i've actually rubbed off part of the serial number-- is sand paper that strong? also: being that part of it appears to be sanded off now, do you think having the serial number is even going to count? i mean... it practically looks like i was trying to steal my own bike at this point. input/suggestions welcome.

also: do people normally register serial numbers with the police? it's my only bike and richmond seems to have its own little bike theft problem, so i just want to be ready in case it gets jacked.

you probably only made the paint flush with the recessed parts of the numbers so it only looks like its not there anymore. you have to get into the crannies to see the numbers better, not around them. as far as registering the bike wit the police, i think most cities wont you to do it.

XVX

also: do people normally register serial numbers with the police? it's my only bike and richmond seems to have its own little bike theft problem, so i just want to be ready in case it gets jacked.

in my experience when you register your bike the police will give you a sticker with a number on it. that is what they would theoretically use to track it. that being said, richmond has a lot more serious problems than bike theft and the police are not going to make any attempt to look for your stolen bike.

In california, you register your bike at the fire department. The police might do it as well, but the fire department is the agency that advertises licencing and registering. As for the serial number, if its stamped in the frame, you'll have to sand the paint down to the metal to read it now.

edit: you'll want to use really fine sand paper.

thanks guys!

along the lines of serial numbers. is there a way to track down the make of a bike and year of by the serial number?

XVX

For what its worth, police do recover bikes and do track down owners through serial numbers.