Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a BikeFacts History Report?
A BikeFacts History Report is a report of a used motorbike's history. A BikeFacts History Report gives you the confidence and peace of mind to make what can be a stressful process a lot easier and safer. All BikeFacts History Reports contain a Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) certificate and, depending on the information returned, will show:
  • if there is finance owing on the bike
  • if the bike has ever been written off or stolen
  • bike identification
  • registration details
What is a Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) Certificate?
A PPSR Certificate is an Australia wide check for financial encumbrances registered against a motorbike. The PPSR replaced state based REVS registers in January 2012, providing details of any finances or money owed against a bike, including the interest holder, the bike recorded on PPSR, the date the interest was recorded on PPSR and the type of interest. It may also include information including whether the bike has been recorded as written-off or stolen.
Why should I get a BikeFacts History Report?
A BikeFacts History Report may prevent you from buying a bike with a hidden past. A bike with finance owing could be repossessed to pay off the debt, leaving you without a bike and out of pocket. A bike which has been written off or stolen might mean you'll pay over the odds for that bike. Don't get taken for a ride - a BikeFacts History Report can give you give you peace of mind you're getting what you pay for.
I am selling my motorbike. Can I still get a BikeFacts History Report?
Yes, and what better way to show prospective buyers that the bike you're selling is a sound purchase! It's as easy as showing them your independent BikeFacts History Report to demonstrate your bike's clean history and give them the confidence to buy your bike today.
Where can I find a motorbike's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
The VIN is stamped on the right side of the steering head.
I have an older motorbike which doesn't have a VIN. Can I still get a BikeFacts History Report?
Unfortunately, no. BikeFacts History Reports rely on VIN's as the prime identifier of a bike. All vehicles manufactured on or after 1 January 1989 will have a VIN. You can look up bikes on the PPSR government website by using a chassis or serial number to receive basic information.
Does my VIN need to be correct to get a BikeFacts History Report?
Yes, it does. An inaccurate VIN will result in an invalid or inaccurate report. Always double check the VIN and refer to our advice on getting it right.
Why is there information missing from my BikeFacts History Report?
There are a couple of reasons why specific information might not appear on your BikeFacts History Report. If the report says that there is no NEVDIS data for the bike you are checking, you may have entered an incorrect VIN. If, after checking you have the right VIN, it might be worth getting in contact with your state road authority to ask them about the bike.
What does 'encumbrance' mean?
"An encumbrance relating to a vehicle" put simply means there is money owed on a loan relating to the bike. We recommend you check the finance is cleared and the encumbrance removed prior to purchasing the bike. It's also a good idea to ask for proof of repayment from the seller and contact the financer for verification.
How long does it take for encumbrance history to be removed from a motorbike's records?
The length of time it takes for an encumbrance to be removed from a bike can vary. The person or entity holding the security (which is likely to be a finance company) is responsible for informing the PPSR when interest is no longer held. It may also take some time for the PPSR to process this request. If you believe that an encumbrance on a bike should be removed, we suggest the person who allowed the security to be taken out over the vehicle (the granter) contact the finance company (the secured party) to ensure this information has been passed on to the PPSR. We recommend you make sure all the finance is cleared and encumbrance removed before buying the bike. Ask for proof of repayment from the seller and contact the financer for verification.
What does it mean if a motorbike has been 'written off'? Are there any implications for a buyer?

If a bike's been 'written off' it means it's been in an accident or has suffered some form of impact, water, fire or malicious damage.

Sometimes bikes which have been written off are unable to be re-registered (declared a statutory write off). Sometimes though they can be repaired and re-registered if they pass a written-off vehicle and safety certificate inspection (a repairable write-off).

Just because a bike was written off, doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy it. It does mean though, that you should do some thorough checks to make sure it's safe - and is owned by the person selling it. Your state or territory road authority will be able to help with any specific queries about the accuracy of 'write off' information provided.

The vehicle I searched on is reported as having been stolen, what should I do?
If the bike you requested a BikeFacts History Report for has been reported as stolen, we suggest contacting the state or territory law enforcement as indicated on the PPSR certificate included in your report.
Who can I talk to if the information I received on a BikeFacts History Report doesn't seem to be accurate?
You can contact us at support@bikefacts.com.au.
I ordered a BikeFacts History Report but haven't received it yet. What do I do now?
You can contact us at support@bikefacts.com.au.
How long does it take to receive a BikeFacts History Report after I order one?
We'll usually email you a copy of your BikeFacts History Report within 15 minutes. We do rely on external data for your Report. These can sometimes be delayed but this is unfortunately out of our control. If you haven't received your report or are having trouble you can contact us at support@bikefacts.com.au.
I've lost my BikeFacts History Report, can I another copy of it?
We can re-send you a copy of a BikeFacts History Report which has been generated within the last month. All you need to do is send an email to support@bikefacts.com.au with the email address used to order the report, as well as the date and time. Data may have been updated from the time of the original report, so for the most up to date information re-enter the VIN and lodge a request for a new BikeFacts History Report.
How long is a BikeFacts History Report valid for?

A BikeFacts History Report is a point in time report which is time stamped when created (Canberra time).

The report can assist a buyer to acquire serial-numbered personal property (such as a motorbike) free of security interests if they search the PPS Register and do not find any security interest registered against that property. For the protection to apply, the search must be done immediately before the transaction, or up to the previous day. Exceptions do exist and consumers should refer to www.PPSR.gov.au for full information.

How accurate is information included in a BikeFacts History Report?
The information supplied in a BikeFacts History Report is extracted from information provided by various government sources. It is only as accurate and up to date as what has been entered into the government and other national databases. For terms and conditions click here.
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