Whether a simple city bike, a competition bike or a mountain bike, all bikes are attractive to thieves. It only takes a few seconds for an experienced thief to steal your bicycle… even if it’s locked. So you need more than a simple lock. Here are six practical tips for protecting your bike against theft.
Whether a simple city bike, a competition bike or a mountain bike, all bikes are attractive to thieves. It only takes a few seconds for an experienced thief to steal your bicycle… even if it’s locked. So you need more than a simple lock. Here are six practical tips for protecting your bike against theft.
1. Invest in a quality U-shaped lock
Tests have shown that a bike lock costing over $40 might not resist for more than about 10 seconds! Hammers, bolt cutters and metal saws are some of the tools used by thieves to easily break inexpensive locks. Make it more difficult for them by protecting your bike with two locking systems such as a U-shaped lock and a chain made of hardened steel.
2. Lock the frame and front wheel
Lock them to a solid anchor point that’s firmly attached to the ground. A bike rack is ideal. If you can easily remove your front wheel, lock it to the rest of your bike. Lift off the seat and take it with you.
3. Keep your bike inside
Park your bike inside as often as you can or choose a well-lit parking lot containing other bikes. It’s not a fail-proof method but it can be an effective way to discourage less experienced thieves.
4. Personalize your bike
Thieves are less attracted to bikes whose brand names have been covered by stickers, tape or even paint because they are much more difficult to resell.
5. Register your bike
Sign up for Project Numéro in cooperation with the police (in Montreal) or ask your local police station about their bicycle registration program. In many cases, your bike will be engraved and the serial number recorded in their automated system. Some organizations for cycling enthusiasts also offer a similar service.
6. Take a photo of your bike
Better yet, ask someone else to take a photo of you on your bike so you can use it as proof of ownership. File it away together with the bike’s serial number, which is what you’ll need in order to identify your bike if it’s stolen despite all your precautions.
