Today, cycling is part of the daily lives of many residents in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Whether it's a city bike, gravel bike, mountain bike, or electric bike, its use increases every year. With this evolution, another problem has become significant: bike theft.
To combat this phenomenon, France has implemented mandatory bike marking, a measure that identifies each bike and increases the chances of finding its owner in case of theft.
If you are looking for a bike marking service in Paris, here's everything you need to know about bike identification and the available solutions.
What is bike marking?
Bike marking involves assigning a unique identification number directly to the bike frame. This number is then registered in a national database, which officially links the bike to its owner.
Identification can take different forms:
- engraving on the frame;
- secure label;
- approved capsule;
- approved identification system.
Once registered, the bike is included in the FNUCI (National Unique Database of Identified Bicycles) managed by APIC.
This system notably allows for:
- identifying a recovered bike;
- facilitating its return;
- limiting the resale of stolen bikes;
- proving ownership of the bike.
Marking does not replace a high-performance anti-theft device, but it is a particularly useful complementary protection.
Is bike marking mandatory in France?
Since January 1, 2021, all new bikes sold by professionals must be identified.
Since July 1, 2021, this obligation also applies to used bikes sold by professionals.
This regulation particularly concerns:
- city bikes;
- road bikes;
- gravel bikes;
- mountain bikes (MTBs);
- electric bikes;
- urban bikes.
Bikes purchased before this regulation or sold between private individuals are not always subject to this obligation, but identification is still highly recommended.
Why mark your bike?
Every year, many bikes disappear in Paris and throughout the Île-de-France region. Without an identification number, finding an owner can be complicated even when a bike is recovered.
Having your bike marked in Paris offers several advantages:
Protection against theft
An identified bike becomes more difficult to resell illegally.
Proof of ownership
The number officially links the bike to its owner.
Higher chances of finding your bike
In case of recovery by authorities or a competent service, identification facilitates the bike's return.
More security when buying used
Marking also allows you to verify that a bike has not been reported stolen.
How is a bike marked?
The procedure is generally quick.
The process includes several steps:
- bike verification;
- placement of the identification number on the frame;
- recording of owner information;
- validation in the national database.
Depending on the case, certain documents may be requested:
- identification document;
- proof of purchase;
- owner's contact information.
The operation usually takes only a few minutes.
How to check the marking of a used bike?
When buying a used bike, it is recommended to always check its status.
Some essential points:
- locate the identification number on the frame;
- check consistency with available documents;
- consult the bike's status in official databases;
- ensure it is not reported stolen.
This step is particularly important for high-end bikes, gravel bikes, or electric bikes.
What to do when selling a bike?
When reselling an identified bike, it is important to perform the transfer of ownership.
This procedure allows:
- the new owner to register their information;
- the previous owner to no longer be associated with the bike;
- to ensure full traceability of the bike.
This protects both the buyer and the seller.
Where to mark your bike in Paris?
If you are looking for a bike marking service in Paris 13, you can do this through an approved operator or in a specialized store.
At Routes&Roads, located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, we carry out bike marking in accordance with current regulations.
Our team also assists you with:
- identifying your bike;
- checking a bike before purchase;
- answering your questions regarding regulations;
- advising you on theft protection solutions.
Whether you ride a city bike, gravel bike, mountain bike, or electric bike, we help you ensure better protection for your bike in everyday life.
If you are looking to get your bike marked in Paris, our team at Routes&Roads in Paris 13 can assist you and perform the identification directly in-store.
