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Stolen Time Bikes: UK Frame-Number Check (Free)
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Quick answer
Time frame numbers are underneath the bottom bracket, etched or printed on a label rather than punched, because the frames are carbon. Look for a light marking, and do not mistake the code on a pair of Time Xpresso pedals for the frame number. Run the frame code through Cyclesite's free lookup for an instant UK check against a stolen-bike registry and rider-filed theft reports.
Where Time puts the frame number
Under the bottom bracket. Time builds in carbon, so the marking is etched or on a bonded label and is easy to overlook in poor light; hold a torch at a shallow angle and photograph it rather than trying to read it once. The catch specific to this brand is that Time is as well known for pedals as for frames, and an Xpresso pedal carries its own code. That is a component number, not the bike.
Time on the UK used market
Time reaches the UK in small numbers through a handful of specialist retailers, so used examples are scarce and hold value. The Alpe d Huez and Scylon are the models most likely to appear second hand. A thin market cuts both ways for a buyer: a stolen Time is conspicuous, but there are few comparable listings to price against, so treat an unusually cheap one as a reason to check the frame code before travelling.
FAQs
- Where is the frame number on a Time bike?
- Underneath the bottom bracket, etched or on a bonded label rather than stamped, because the frames are carbon.
- Is the number on my Time pedals the frame number?
- No. Time Xpresso pedals carry their own code. The frame number is the marking under the bottom bracket of the frame itself.
- Why is the marking on my Time so faint?
- Carbon frames are not punched. Light etching and bonded labels wear and can be hidden by protective film or road grime, so clean the area and use raking light before assuming it has been removed.
Police datapolice.uk releases
Most stolen bikes are never traced back to anyone
Police recorded 28,531 bicycle thefts across 44 UK city centres over three years. A suspect was identified in 10.1% of closed cases, and 1 in 33 reached a charge. Pick an area for the local picture.
Jun 23Down 25% in three yearsMay 26
- 8,221
- thefts recorded in 12 months
- −12%
- change on the year before
- 10.1%
- of closed cases had a suspect identified
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