Having one’s ride stolen is a major concern! And knowing what happens to the stolen bicycles is usually a mystery, but many agree that flipping them into cash for drugs is often the motivation.
Bikes offer a plentiful supply, and stealing a bicycle offers a quick means of escape. The right lock can make a difference. When a thief is confronted with several potentials, weaker locks are the easier targets. The problem is everywhere, in the city, suburbs, college campuses, public schools, and libraries, and the corner grocery store.
As we enter another cycling season, here are a few suggestions on what to do and what not to do. I always recommend a U-lock over the conventional lock and cable.
DO…keep your bike locked at all times; lock your bike in a well lit area; m lock your bike to an object that is securely bolted or cemented in the ground and that has something affixed to the top to prevent the thief from lifting the bike or lock over the top of the object; position you lock with the key mechanism face down; and, create a snug fit with wheels and frame so that there is little room in the “U” portion of the lock for the thief’s tools.
DON’T …lock your bike to itself, or to objects that can be easily cut; lock your bike in the same area all the time’ and don’t position the lock near the ground (prevents thief from attempting to leverage or crush the lock).
In high risk areas, I always recommend the use of two locks - the U-Lock AND a Cable lock. By using this combination you can foil the thief as he will only be carrying tools for only one of these two systems.
It always a good idea to have you bike registered if your community police department does this, or through a national bike registration service such as the National Bike Registry. Alternatives are engraving, tape, and paint to mark and personalize your bike. You can even place your name, address, and phone number on a plastic bag and stash it in your seat post. Taking a picture or two could help identify/recover the bike if stolen.
Be sure to register the combination or key number with the lock company! And keep a coy of you original purchase receipts along with bicycle serial numbers in a safe place.