How to find your bicycle frame number

Looking for a bike's frame number can feel like a wild goose chase. We ask our cycle insurance customers to provide it when they set up a policy so we made this short guide:

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Most bicycles have a frame number stamped into the metal under the bottom bracket. If it's a carbon frame, the number will be etched into the surface or displayed on a sticker.

Occasionally, the frame number will be on the inside of the chain stay or on the down tube or top tube. See the diagram below if you need to identify these areas of the bicycle. Please note: 6-digit numbers starting in BS or EN are NOT the frame number.

Brompton frame number location update

Over recent years, Brompton has moved the sticker - and later the plate - that displays the bike's serial number and frame number. However, the frame number is always stamped into the frame near the crank and this location has not moved. T-Line Bromptons are stamped on the lower part of the main frame opposite to the crank set.

Help! My bicycle doesn't have a frame number

Don't worry. Some older bikes and carbon fibre frames do not have numbers so you will need to fit your cycle with an identity tag.

The easiest and most effective way to create your own frame number is to use the Datatag system.

The Datatag system allows you to permanently mark your frame and forks with an etching kit and a series of micro dots.

The etches feature a unique code visible only when illuminated by a UV torch of the kind carried as standard by British police. The micro dots also include the code and can be glued to every valuable component using a clear, UV glue. You can buy the Datatag system online here.

Find my bicycle frame number - Still stuck?

Please call us on 0333 000 1234 or email customercare@eta.co.uk and we will be happy to help.

Get Cycle Rescue for free when you buy ETA cycle insurance

Every cycle insurance policy of ours includes the following as standard:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)

Read a full list of everything we include as standard.

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The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK’s most ethical provider.