Unlike most other registers, the Bike Index database is openly available with an accessible API so that anyone can use it to find and return stolen bicycles.

Users can register bikes, specify frame serial numbers, list components and any special characteristics, and upload pictures.

In 2016, Bike Index announced integration with LeadsOnline,[8][9][10] one of the USA's largest pawn search systems used by law enforcement officers to uncover stolen goods.

Bike Index claims that restricting access to serial numbers only helps thieves but nonetheless gives their users the option.

If they like, users can create an additional personal page that includes any extra contact information they want to share, but this is not required.