I am trying to sell one of my bikes. I had a guy call me off of Craigslist. The guy sounded legit and said he wanted to come and look at the bike today. I got an email from him last night asking for the VIN number. Is there a scam I don't know about by obtaining the VIN or am I just being too paranoid? T.

 

If he is tryin to get a loan or insurance for it they will typically ask for the vin number.

 

Not sure how things work in the States but in Canada if a guy wants to finance the bike they do a title search on it to make sure there are no liens on the bike. They need the VIN for that. I have sold bikes before and usually have to give the interested parties the number, I just try and make sure that they are really interested before giving it to them. never had a problem.

 

He wants to run it and make sure it wasn't in an accident.

 

The times are a changing my friend 20 years ago the engine number could be used in any country. The vin number on your bike is only for your bike don't worry.

 

..there are plenty of scams where VIN is used..it's not a scam that would cost or effect you, what these overseas scammers do is re-list your bike for sale themselves under a different ad, use your VIN # in the ad so it comes back a legit bike, then try to get someone to send a downpayment so they can "hold it" for them...I would simply ask the buyer to meet with you before giving out the VIN...

 

It's bad that there is so much dishonesty and no-one can trust anybody anymore. If you want to get freaked out... Does he know where you live? Does he have your full name? What if... He wanted to run a check on the history of the scooter?

If he buys it are you going to accept a Check, Money Order(s) or CASH? Oh My... All of them could be bogus. I really hate what we've become.

Would I give him the serial number? Sure. I just sold my BMW R1100RT, I gave the guy the serial number over the phone, when he showed up I even let him ride it and when he handed me the Cash, I didn't even count it, I just stuck it in my pocket and said, "I'm feel sure you're as Honest as I am".

Joe if someone wanted a good serial number there's at least a thousand on ebay right now (look on the right side of the listing page).

Capt. Mike

 

I don't see a problem with giving the VIN number out to someone. Any stranger walking by your bike (or car) in a parking lot can get the same information right off the frame (or dash).

 

I just gave out the VIN for my Sportster yesterday to a guy. Said his CU needed it.

He supposed to buy my bike today.

We shall see.

 

Shouldn't be a problem.