Cycle security

In recent years there has been an increase in the theft of pedal cycles nationally and locally. More than half of the bikes are stolen from the owner’s property. Take time to look at where you store your bike and the security devices used. Remember, consider the value of your bike then look to spend the appropriate amount of money to protect it.

Record a full description of the bike to include Make, Model, serial number, marks features and accessories. Take pictures of the bike. Check to make sure your bike is covered by house contents insurance or for more expensive bikes specific insurance will be required.

At Home

• Keep your bike in a secure garage or shed
• Keep it out of public view, away from prying eyes
• Secure it to an immovable object, an object a bike cannot be lifted over and cannot be broke, cut or removed.
• Use good quality locks/ chains that meet ‘sold secure’ standard. No good securing a £1000 bike with a £5 lock.
• Overtly mark your bike; there are many products on the market from straight forwards labels with post codes to more expensive schemes such as bike register, a National database set up just to deal with bikes. Bike Register.
• You could include bikes when you register other items on Immobilise.

Out and About

• Thieves do not like to be seen! Where possible, lock your bike in a well- lit, busy area. Look for CCTV coverage.
• Lock both wheels and the frame to a bike stand or strong immovable object.
• Lock ‘tight’ so your bike is hard to manoeuvre when parked.

Use good quality locks/ chains that meet ‘sold secure’ standard.