Top 3 Tips for Theft Prevention
- Always lock your bike's frame and wheels with a high-quality, modern U-lock (that has a flat or disc key)
- Remove all detachable items like lights, bags and quick release parts
- Lock to a bike rack, parking meter or firmly affixed sign pole - these are the most secure places
- See images to the right for locking depictions.
More Tips
- Always lock your bike, even if you're just leaving it for a moment, or it can literally "roll away."
- Always lock through the frame and a wheel. Add a cable or second U-lock to lock the second wheel. See diagrams to the right.
- Always use a modern, high quality U-lock. U-locks are strong and better ones come with theft warranties. Buy the most expensive lock you can afford. Only buy a U-lock with a flat or disc key. Cylindrical keyed locks are more easily picked. See diagram to the right.
- Always lock to something secure and firmly affixed like a bike rack, parking meter or sign pole.
- Beware of locking to "sucker poles" that are loosely bolted down and can easily be removed.
- Avoid locking to private property and places that block pedestrian flow, including scaffolding, bridges, and fences.
- Remove detachable items like lights, bags and quick release parts from your bike and take them with you.
- Consider replacing quick release parts with ones that bolt on for greater security.
- Lock your bike close by and keep it in view as much as possible.
- Lock near entrances and well-lit, secure areas.
- Lock your bike inside if space is available.
- Lock your bike when keeping it in a garage or other unattended indoor area, even if you can only lock the bike to itself by locking the frame to a wheel.
- Check out the lock manufacturer's warranty and product replacement policy.
Taking the time to lock up your bike with a high quality, relatively inexpensive U-lock is the best way to keep your bike yours. It's better to lock your bike than to buy a new one.
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