Cycle safety

Good afternoon, 

Hope everyone is well on this sunny Saturday afternoon.

Please find below some quick tips for keeping your push bike secure.

Cycle Safety 

 1. Advanced Physical Security

  The Gold Standard: Always use a "Sold Secure" Gold-standard D-lock. Local offenders can cut through standard cable locks in seconds.

  Double-Locking: Lock the frame and both wheels to a permanent, solid stand. If you only lock the wheel, thieves may leave the wheel and take the rest of the bike.

  Remove Tech: Always take detachable lights, computers, and e-bike batteries with you when parking in public. 

2. Digital & Permanent Marking

  Bike Register: Register your bike for free at BikeRegister. Police use this database to return recovered bikes to their owners.

  Smart Water/ Data-tag: West Midlands Police frequently hold "marking surgeries" where they apply invisible forensic markers to bikes.

  Privacy Zones: If you use apps like Strava, set up a "privacy zone" around your home so thieves cannot track where you store your bike. 

3. Physical Safety on the Road

  Be Bright: It is a legal requirement to have working front and rear lights when cycling at night. Reflective clothing is strongly advised.

  Road Positioning: You are entitled to ride in the centre of the lane ("primary position") if the road is narrow or quiet, or when approaching a junction, to ensure drivers see you.

  Training: Programs like Bikeability offer safety training for both children and adults to help navigate busy local routes.

Local Action: If you see groups on e-bikes scouting car parks or behaving suspiciously, report it to West Midlands Police via 101

Hope you have a great Saturday afternoon,

Steven