# Where is the frame number on a Time bike?

Canonical: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/trust/frame-numbers/time
Last reviewed: 2026-08-05

**Quick answer:** The frame number on a Time bike is usually underneath the bottom bracket, etched or printed on a label because the frame is carbon. Look for a light marking rather than a punched code, and do not confuse it with a pedal or component number.

On a Time, check underneath the bottom bracket first, then the rear dropouts and head tube. Time builds carbon road frames using a woven process rather than sheet layup, and as with any carbon frame the number is etched or printed rather than stamped.

## Start under the bottom bracket.

This is the most common place to find a Time frame number. It is the part of the frame between the pedals, on the underside.

1. Put the bike somewhere safe and well lit.
2. Turn it upside down carefully, or place it in a workstand.
3. Look underneath the frame where the cranks meet the bike.
4. Wipe away mud, grease or road dirt.
5. Use a phone torch if the number is hard to read.
6. Take a clear photo before typing the number into a checker.

### If it is not under the bottom bracket

- Near the rear dropouts, where the back wheel fits into the frame.
- Around the seat tube.
- On the underside of the down tube.
- Near the head tube at the front of the bike.
- On the original sales receipt.
- In your Time registration email or paperwork.
- With the Time dealer that sold the bike.

## What a Time frame number looks like

A unique alphanumeric code, etched or on a bonded label under the bottom bracket. Time does not publish a serial format publicly, so use the full code.

### Not the frame number

- Time Alpe d’Huez
- Time Scylon
- Time ADHX
- Time Xpresso pedals
- Frame size
- Fork serial number
- Wheel serial number
- Component code

## Time also makes pedals, and they have numbers too

Time is as well known for its pedals as its frames, and a set of Xpresso pedals carries its own markings. Those identify the pedals, not the bike. When you run a stolen-bike check, use the code on the frame under the bottom bracket.

## Buying a used Time

A clean-looking bike is not always a safe buy. Before you pay, ask the seller for a clear photo of the frame number and check it against stolen-bike records. You should also ask for:

- The original receipt or proof of purchase.
- The seller’s name matching the receipt where possible.
- Clear photos of the bike from both sides.
- A photo of the frame number.
- Any service history.
- Details of upgrades or replacement parts.

## Bottom line

The quickest place to find a Time frame number is underneath the bike, near the pedals. Look for a stamped code or barcode sticker, copy the full number, then check it before you buy, sell or register the bike. A used Time can be a brilliant buy, but the frame number is the detail that protects you.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is a Time frame number the same as a serial number?

Yes. Most people use frame number and serial number to mean the same thing. It is the unique identifying code attached to the bike frame.

### Do all Time bikes have a frame number?

Most Time bikes have a frame number or serial number. Check the locations described above first; on older frames the marking can be shallow or worn, so clean the area and check in good light before concluding it is missing.

### What if the Time frame number has been removed?

Do not buy the bike. A removed or damaged frame number is a major red flag. It may make the bike harder to register, insure, resell or prove as yours.

### Can I check if a Time bike is stolen by the frame number?

Yes. Use the frame number to run a stolen-bike check before buying. You should also ask the seller for proof of ownership and check that the details match the bike.

### How do I register a Time bike in the UK?

Find the frame number using the locations described above, then record it against your Time. It is free, and you need an account so we know where to send the alert. If that exact number is ever reported stolen to us, we email you. If anyone then lists a bike carrying it, the listing is hidden until the seller proves it is theirs.

## Related pages

- Free stolen-bike check: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/stolen-bikes
- What a used Time is worth: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/value/time
- Stolen Time bikes: how to check one before you buy: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/stolen-bikes/guide/stolen-bikes-by-brand-time
- Used Time prices by model: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/value/time
- Frame numbers for other brands: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/trust/frame-numbers

Source: Cyclesite editorial, reviewed 2026-08-05. HTML version: https://www.cyclesite.co.uk/trust/frame-numbers/time