Darker Nights - Crime Prevention - Protect your bike from theft
Keeping Your Bike Safe: Advice from Your Local Police
With darker nights providing cover for thieves, bicycles can become an easy target. Having experienced the distress of bike theft firsthand, I understand how upsetting it can be. Below, we’ve outlined practical steps to help you protect your bike and advice on what to do if it’s stolen.
The most important rule: Always double lock your bike and register the frame number.
10 Ways to Protect Your Bike
· Double Lock It Use two quality locks (including at least one D-lock). Using different types of locks makes it harder for thieves, as they are unlikely to carry multiple tools.
· Lock the Frame and Wheels Secure your bike frame and both wheels to a robust cycle stand.
· Reduce Manoeuvring Space Position your bike close to the stand, giving thieves little room to work.
· Remove or Secure Easily Detachable Parts Take items like lights, saddles, or baskets with you. Alternatively, use locking nuts or skewers to secure parts to your bike permanently.
· Choose Secure Parking Lock your bike in well-lit, secure locations that are covered by CCTV.
· Register Your Bike Record your bike’s frame number on a national database approved by Secured by Design. The frame number is typically found underneath the bike between the pedals or near the rear wheel. If your bike is stolen and recovered, this allows the police to trace it back to you.
· Get It Marked Security marking your bike is an effective deterrent. Thieves know a marked bike is traceable, making them more likely to be caught. Marking kits are available from Secured by Design.
· Secure It at Home Use the same level of security at home as you would on the street. Avoid advertising your bike’s presence by removing car roof racks when not in use, and use privacy settings on apps like Strava to avoid revealing your location.
· Check Ownership When Buying When purchasing a second-hand bike, ask for proof of ownership and verify the frame number on a database approved by Secured by Design.
· Act Quickly if Your Bike Is Stolen Report the theft to us as soon as possible. Provide the frame number, registration database details, a photo of the bike, and any distinguishing features. Update the status of the bike on the database as well. Acting fast increases the chances of recovery.
If Your Bike Is Stolen
Post details of your stolen bike, along with photos, on online cycling forums such as:
