CommunitySafe.gov.uk

CYCLE THEFT CRIME PREVENTION ADVICE

 

The following is a guide on various measures that can be taken in order to reduce the risk of your pedal cycle being stolen.

 

LOCKS

 

First and foremost it is important to emphasise that the best way to reduce the risk of bike theft is to invest in a substantial bike lock, there are many different types available on the market, but D-locks and heavy chain locks are particularly strong and will help reduce the risk of bike theft. For further advice see www.soldsecure.com.

 

LOCKING YOUR BIKE

 

It is important when locking your bike that any removable parts, i.e. wheels, saddles etc, are either removed or secured with the bike, and most importantly make sure the main frame is secured to whichever locking point you are using. Any locks use you use should not be allowed to trail on the floor as this will aid any thief in attempting to break the lock. When you secure the bike, make sure that it is locked in such a way that any movement is limited making it hard for anyone to position it to facilitate cutting the lock.

 

When choosing your locking point it is important to secure the bike to an immovable object or stand, preferably a designated cycle stand. It is also worth bearing in mind that if you avoid locking your bike in an isolated and dimly lit location, you limit any opportunities for potential thieves.

When locking your bike to a lamppost or sign, consider the height and assess whether it would be possible for someone to lift the bike and lock over the top in order to steal it.

 

BIKE IDENTIFICATION

 

It is important to make note of any serial numbers or unique features of your bike to make it easy to trace or identify in the event it is stolen, and you can also register your cycle with a bike marking scheme online. It is quite common for police to recover stolen bikes where we are unable to re-unite it with an owner as the bike has not been registered and quite often because the owner has not reported the theft to police in the first place.

Reporting stolen bikes not only helps us with restoring it to the owner but it can also provide us with valuable information which can assist us in tackling bike theft on the streets. Companies such as SELECTAMARK provide online marking schemes.

 

PURCHASING BIKES ONLINE

 

When purchasing bikes online from private sellers it is important to ask yourself a question, is the sale price too good to be true? If so then there is a possibility that the bike is stolen! Find out how much the bike is worth first and then compare that with the asking price.

 

PS Stuart Wiltshire 

Trinity SNT