Originally Posted by Stucky

I ALWAYS ask for the serial number before going to see a used bike. Always want to make sure that it's not stolen; is the claimed model year; etc.

I've never had a problem with anyone not wanting to give it to me. Having a serial number is NOT proof of ownership!

Really, what could the guy do? If he were to fraudulently report it stolen, a though it were his bike, it would be obvious that you had the ad up before he even filed a report. Plus, you probably have old pictures of the bike; proof of emailing him the serial number; friends and relatives as witnesses that you've owned the bike for years- and you may even have the receipt!

It's just like posting the VIN number of a car you are trying to sell.

Only thing to watch out for, is if it's a high-end bike, the guy might just be looking for a serial number to spoof the ad to scam people- but that has nothing to do with you.