Do’s and Don’ts to Prevent Bike Theft

21 Jul 2016
us gps to recover  stolen bike, wheel and padlocks left on the spot

us gps to recover stolen bike, wheel and padlocks left on the spot

It’s summer and many of us are out and about getting exercise and taking in the warm weather and scenery on our bikes. It also makes now a great time to learn how to properly lock up your bike to keep it from getting stolen. If you have ever had your bike stolen, you know how it feels to see that empty space where your bike was located. To avoid bike theft, below are some do’s and don’ts of keeping your bike secure.

DO Lock Your Bike Always

No matter where you go with your bike, if you can’t take it with you, lock it up. It doesn’t matter if you are only going inside for a minute. It only takes a second for someone to run off with your bike, so always lock it up. If there isn’t a place for you to lock your bike to, you can simple lock the bike’s front wheel to the frame.

DON’T Use Cable Locks

Although these are flexible which makes it easier for you to lock up your bike, they are easy to cut quickly with a hacksaw or bolt cutters. You should get a hefty bike chain or U-lock instead. When using a U-lock, have the keyhole facing down when you lock it so it’s harder for a thief to break the lock.

DO Utilize a GPS Tracking Device

When you have a GPS tracking device of these installed on your bike, if your bike gets stolen, you can easily track it. GPS tracking shows the exact location your bike is and can help law enforcement easily locate it, retrieve it and arrest the criminals who stole it.

DON’T Assume Your Quick Release Wheels and Bike Accessories are Secure

Items that can be removed easily like seats, pumps, quick release wheels, lights and cycle computers are easy for thieves to steal. Take them with you. If you have quick release wheels, lock them.  You should remove your quick releases (the little levers) since they make it too easy for thieves to remove your seat posts and wheels and gear. You might prefer to use a bolt on your seat post or security skewers on your wheels instead of a quick release. Security skewers require a unique key to loosen and make it harder for thieves to steal since they don’t have the key.

DO Write Your Bike’s Serial Number Down

After you write it down, put it in a place that you won’t forget or lose it. You can even email it to yourself. You can find the serial number underneath the bottom bracket. It’s also a good idea to write your information on a small piece of paper and stuff it inside your handlebar grips. This way, if you happen to come across it one day, you will know it’s yours.

 

Taking a little extra time to ensure your bike is secure can keep it safe. Let the September Bike Challenge Month be your reminder that locking your bike is important and you should know how to do it appropriately.


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