There are few simple steps you can follow to protect yourself online through every stage of the buying process.
Step 1: Searching for bikes
Keep an eye out for significantly undervalued bikes– if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
Step 2: Contacting the seller
- Prepare some questions about the bike to ask the seller to help verify that they are genuine and that the bike is as described
- Do not provide the seller with your personal identification details like a copy of your licence or banking information.
- Read our help center article on what to do if you think a seller is suspicious
Step 3: Inspecting the bike
- Arrange to meet at a neutral location like a police station car park and try to take someone with you
- Before you test drive the bike , make sure your insurance covers test drives
- Find out the legal status of the bike before paying a deposit. Buying a BikeFacts Report will give you peace-of-mind as you can quickly determine if the bike has ever been recorded as stolen or written off, has any finance owing on it.
- If you do choose to put a deposit down, make sure you get a receipt stamped with the date and time and the sellers licence details.
Step 4: Making an offer
- Do your research and know the value of the bike before making a deal. Visit Redbook.com.au for detailed vehicle information including price guides and valuations
- Remember to confirm the VIN matches the compliance plate on the vehicle.
Step 5: Paying the seller
- Use a method of payment that provides you with proof of purchase like a receipt or email confirmation directly from the provider
- Ask for a signed receipt with the date and time to confirm payment
- Never send cash in the mail
- Check our security updates regularly for important information.
Check out the video below on our top 10 online safety tips!
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