Over the past year, bicycles have increasingly become a highly valued possession. In both large and small cities, bicycle thieves have grown more sophisticated and organized, making bike theft a growing concern. Unfortunately, this crime often goes unresolved.
Understanding where and how bike theft occurs can make you a more vigilant cyclist and hopefully protect your bike from falling into the wrong hands.
One common scenario involves leaving a bike in a seemingly safe spot. The ease of theft can often be attributed to tools like battery-powered grinders with diamond blades. These tools can cut through even the strongest cable locks, and chain locks aren't far behind. Some thieves even use impact guns, which can break a lock with a single powerful strike!
Most experienced thieves look for areas with plenty of targets. As soon as you leave your bike unattended, it becomes a potential theft target. Thieves don’t care about location, so there’s no truly "safe" place to leave your bike. Surprisingly, some of the most frequent spots for theft include supermarkets, gyms, train stations, libraries, workplaces, restaurants, hotels, schools, and hospitals. Regardless of where the bike is left, no one except the owner is likely to care about preventing theft—and in some cities, even the police aren’t interested.
While there’s no foolproof method to prevent bike theft, using multiple high-quality locks can significantly reduce the risk. In a recent study comparing lock strengths, Abus locks stood out as notably heavier than competitors. The weight of a lock indicates its metal density, which correlates with its strength. In an essay titled "Confessions of a Bike Thief," the author admitted that he would avoid stealing bikes secured with Abus locks in favor of those with weaker locks.
Another common scenario involves leaving a bike on a car rack. Many thefts occur when cyclists forget their bikes on car racks or inside locked vehicles. Thieves strike quickly, whether at a grocery store parking lot or a hotel overnight. They also target places like gas stations, convenience stores, and fast-food restaurants. Some thieves are so sneaky that they steal bikes right in front of people! Recently, a group of thieves in Denver targeted a major sporting goods store’s parking lot, stealing several bikes from car racks before anyone noticed. The culprits were never caught.
To protect your bike on a car rack, use a heavy-duty chain in addition to the rack’s built-in lock. Always park your vehicle in a spot visible from inside the store or restaurant.
Garages are another hotspot for bike theft. Even a closed garage door isn’t enough to deter a skilled thief. Modern garage door openers use rolling codes, but older models can be easily hacked. If a thief can’t bypass the code, they’ll pry open the garage door enough to pull the emergency release cord. If you haven’t used the cord recently, consider removing it or zip-tying it to prevent unauthorized access.
If you store your bikes in a garage, especially if you have kids who might leave the door open, secure them to something fixed with a heavy chain and lock. If nothing sturdy is available, install a floor anchor in your garage.
In condos or apartments, bicycles must often be stored in locked bike cages in parking garages, making them visible to everyone. This openness provides valuable information to potential thieves. Given that many residents have access to the cage, treat it as though the door doesn’t exist. Secure your bike to a fixed object like a pillar or pipe with the heaviest chain possible. Avoid relying solely on a cable lock. If there are no security cameras, suggest installing one to the management.
Storing bikes on balconies can also pose risks, especially on lower floors. A ladder and a willing accomplice can easily access second-floor balconies, while a truck-mounted ladder can reach the third floor. If you must store bikes on a balcony, invest in heavy-duty security measures.
Bicycles left in backyards are similarly vulnerable. Even if the bike is hidden from view, it’s only a matter of time before it’s discovered and stolen. Store your bike in a shed and either lock it to the shed or ensure the shed is always securely locked.
Bike commuters face additional risks when leaving their bikes outside during work hours. A heavy chain and lock are essential to prevent theft, especially at night. Bikes left outside between sunset and sunrise are particularly vulnerable.
City ordinances can also play a role. In some areas, locking a bike to certain structures is illegal, allowing the city to confiscate or abandon the bike. Stay informed about local regulations to avoid complications.
Beyond complete bike theft, accessories like lights, wheels, and seats are often targeted. Using specialized fasteners that require unique tools can deter these types of thefts.
Emerging technologies like GPS trackers and motion sensors offer hope for recovering stolen bikes. While these devices can be useful, they require cell phone connectivity and have limited battery life. Apple’s AirTag is a promising option due to its long battery life, though it works best in urban areas with strong Bluetooth signals.
If your bike is stolen, report it to the police immediately. If recovered, having proof of ownership—like hidden markings or purchase receipts—can help authorities return your bike.
Finally, consider insuring your bike. In many areas, bicycle theft isn’t a police priority. Velosurance offers comprehensive coverage without depreciation, providing peace of mind. Additionally, registering your bike with organizations like Bike Index can aid in recovery efforts.
Even with the best precautions, theft can still happen. But staying informed and proactive can significantly reduce the risk.
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