How to Prevent Your Bicycle From Being Stolen

Being a victim of theft is a widespread problem for cyclists. The practical tips in this blog will inform you how to prevent your bicycle from being stolen and, if it is, the steps you can take to retrieve it.

It’s important to note that there’s no guarantee that any of the measures we discuss in this blog will prevent your bike from being stolen. However, there are some things you can do to keep your bike safe and reduce the chances of it actually being pinched.

Lock it up

Having a lock on your bicycle should go without saying. To increase your level of security further we recommend you get into the habit of using multiple locks. Using two locks will not only slow down thieves but it’ll more importantly make your bike less of a target. If your bike has multiple security locks a criminal will understand that there will be an easier target elsewhere.

Investing in a heavy-duty lock that is difficult to both cut and break is essential. D-locks are reliable and durable, making them the perfect choice for one of your locks. We also recommend a chain lock is employed to give that extra layer of protection.

One of the best things you can do to prevent your bicycle from being stolen is to ensure you have secured your bike as close to the stand as possible. This gives thieves little to no room to manoeuvre

Protect the removable parts of your bicycle

If a criminal sees the frame of your bike is secure then they will then see what removable parts they can take to sell. This includes wheels, saddles and lights. For maximum security, we recommend you remove these parts yourself and take them with you.

This may seem like a major inconvenience but it’ll give you that peace of mind and save you from having to carry your bike home.

Park securely

You must always be smart when parking your bike. Leaving it in a quiet, poorly lit area is essentially asking for a thief to take it. Lock your bike in a well-lit, high-traffic area. Thieves are less likely to steal a bike that is in plain view of many people. This coupled with your multiple locks will be a surefire way to prevent your bicycle from being stolen.

Another thing to look into is storing your bike indoors. Going to work? The office space might have a bike/storage room you can use; if they don’t you can petition for one! If you’re living in a small flat then you can purchase a bicycle shelf to take up as little room as possible. The most dangerous place you can leave your bike is in public. Keeping it inside a private, secure property is always your best option.

Here at Cycle Revival, we offer a range of Brompton Bikes which are perfect for storage indoors as they can be folded down small enough to fit comfortably under a desk!

Try to register your bike

One additional thing you can do is register your bike with your local police department or perhaps an approved bike registration service such as this one. This can make it easier to recover your bike in the case of it being stolen. The frame number is usually found underneath the bike between the pedals or where the back wheel slots in. This will allow your property traced back to you if it is stolen and recovered by police.

Another useful thing you can do is have a photograph of your bike stored on your phone. This can make it easier to identify if it is stolen.

This applies nationwide

Bike theft is not a crime exclusive to large cities. Bicycle theft can still occur in small villages deep in the countryside. It’s important you take the advice of this blog regardless of your location. Always lock your bike and prepare for the worst-case scenario – it can happen to you!

What to do if your bike is stolen

In a situation where your bike has been stolen, it’s critical you act quickly. Immediately call 101, the police-only non-emergency number, and report your bike as stolen. Time is really of the essence! Also search various platforms for re-selling items such as eBay, Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace. If you do find your bike, inform the police and avoid setting up a sting. Putting yourself in danger for the opportunity to confront the person that stole your bike is never a good idea. Criminals are far more experienced in this sort of thing. Leave the confrontation to the professional.

Get in touch

We hope you found this blog informative. Knowing how to prevent your bicycle from being stolen as a cyclist is so important, especially if you’re dependent on your bicycle for travel! Bikes are an expensive piece of equipment so everyone should keep them as safe as possoble, especially as they are so mobile.

We have a wide range of options from folding bikes, perfect for commutes, to full-suspension mountain bikes! We’re bound to have the perfect bike in stock for you. Feel free to give us a call at 01435 866118 or drop us an email at info@cyclerevival.co.uk. Alternatively, you could visit us at our shop in Heathfield or fill out the contact form here. We’ll do our best to get back to you as soon as possible.