| Help! It seems I own a stolen bike
Dear all,
I've just had the Police vehicle inspection unit around who have formally notified me that my 888 has been reported stolen (after they confirmed the VIN on the bike). Its all a bit strange though as it (apparently) went missing while sitting on a trailer in September 2001 (yes that long ago). The stolen trailer was recovered yesterday (minus 888 obviously) and the police have just got involved. The upshot now seems to be that I have to wait to see who tries to claim the bike (usually an insurance company). The bikes history (as I understand it from documentation I have) is as follows;
Puchased by a main Ducati dealer in Sept 2001 who serviced it and MOT'd it. Sold it to owner 4 with a clean HPI check.
Bought by owner 5 in July 2002 who ran a (clear) HPI check.
Bought by owner 6 (me!) in May 2005 who got yet another clear HPI check.
The police are currently unsure if the bike was actually reported stolen in 2001.
The police basically say I have no claim against a previous owner so am I correct in assuming I'm stuffed if the person reporting the claim can prove it was theirs at the time. Is there anything I should be doing to make sure I can keep hold of this bike? It wouldn't be so bad except the blasted thing is nearly back together and I've spent a huge amount of my time (and a not inconsiderable amount of money) on it.
Any advice much appreciated!!!
Keith  |