A bike marketplace works when it is fair, safe and transparent.
This policy covers how Cyclesite handles stolen-bike reports, how it prices its services, how it treats private sellers and dealers, and how it uses user data. If we fall short, email ethics@cyclesite.co.uk.
Principles
Safety first
Every frame number is checked against UK stolen-bike databases before a listing publishes. Matches are blocked. If a listing is later reported stolen, we remove it the same day and cooperate with UK police forces on recovery.
Fair pricing, both sides
Valuations use real completed UK sale prices, not asking prices. Buyers see what bikes actually go for. Sellers see realistic prices that move. No inflated reserves, no hidden cuts.
Transparent fees
Listing fees are shown before you list. Transaction fees are shown at checkout before anyone commits. No post-sale surprises. No selling user data to advertisers.
Equal treatment
Private sellers, bike shops, dealers and estate executors follow the same rules. No pay-to-play ranking, no dealer-only features that private sellers cannot access.
How we handle stolen bikes
Before any listing publishes, the frame number is checked against UK stolen-bike databases used by UK police forces, alongside other stolen-bike data sources.
If a match appears, the listing is held and the seller is contacted for evidence of ownership. If concerns remain, we report to the relevant police force and share any information that could help recovery.
If a listing clears the initial check but is later reported stolen, it is removed the same day. Buyer Protection payments held in Stripe escrow can be returned to the buyer.
What we commit to
- Never knowingly list a stolen bike
- Show fees before anyone commits
- Respond to safety concerns within 24 hours
- Remove fraudulent listings on the same day
- Cooperate with UK police forces on bike-theft cases
- Publish valuation methodology, not just outputs
Report an ethical concern
If we are falling short, or you have seen something wrong on the platform, report it through any of the routes below. Every report is read by a human.