any advice on avoiding stolen bikes

[videojetman]

fortunately my situation has been resolved with the police but has left my confidence in second hand bikes in ruins. i have passed up on some great bikes recently as i am probably too inquisitive nowadays i guess i question purchases as if i were interrogating the poor seller needless to say most get pissed off with my questions and dont bother mailing back to me. perhaps a sign that there are more stolen goods out there than we care to admit.

i think just cos you had a bad experience doesn't mean we are all dealing with stolen goods.
if you want to miss out on stuff because your suspicious, that's your choice.
just cos sellers don't get back to you, doesn't mean they are dealing in stolen goods.
maybe your just being overly cautious.
in all the years i have been buying bikes and bike parts iv'e never had a problem.
but the saying goes if it seems too good to be true stay well clear.