Cycle security
Every day an average of 7 bikes are stolen in Cambridge, you can follow these 7 top tips to reduce the risk of getting your bike stolen.
1. Buy a decent lock (or two)
There are many different types of lock available including D Locks, chain locks and cables. Find out which type is most suitable for you by visiting the Why Cycle website. You could use a mixture of a D Lock to lock the back wheel to the frame and connect a cable lock to secure the front wheel. To find out more, watch the Cambridge Cycle Campaign video.
Make sure your using a lock which is hard to break. Use locks of gold ‘sold secure’ standard, they will have a sticker on the lock showing this. Take a look at The Cyclist website for some recommendations.
Expect to pay over £40 on a decent lock which will be hard for thieves to break easily.
2. Lock the frame and both wheels
When you leave your bike, make sure your bike is locked to something secure and that the lock goes through the frame and any quick-release parts of the bike if possible.
3. Choose where you park carefully - Lock your bike where there are a high amount of pedestrians walking by and in areas which are well-lit and covered by CCTV.
4. Get your bike security marked and registered - Register your bicycle model, make and frame number at www.immobilise.com or www.bikeregister.com. If your bike is stolen, report the theft to police and state your bicycle registration number. This will help the police identify your stolen bike. You can get your bike marked for free at a free Dr Bike session, check the events page for the latest dates.
5. Know your frame number - Usually this is on the bottom of the frame. Nearly 75% of people reporting bicycle thefts to the police do not know their frame number which makes finding a stolen bike harder.
6. Get bicycle theft insurance - Check whether your home insurance covers bicycle theft and if it covers theft outside of the home too. If your bicycle is particularly valuable you may need to insure it separately. The following organisations provide cycle insurance:
7. Take any items that can be removed without tools with you - These include the wheels, lights, pump, computer, panniers, seat post and saddle. These can go even if you leave your bike unattended for just a few minutes.