Protection Against Bicycle Theft – 9 Simple Tips

A bicycle is an investment in mobility, leisure, and hobby. The cost of a new bicycle can range from a few hundred to a few thousand euros. A bicycle is expensive, and it's something one values, so it must be protected from theft as effectively as possible. In Germany alone, several hundred thousand bicycles are stolen every year. The clearance rate is shockingly low, with only about 10% of stolen bikes being recovered. 

Let's be honest: There is no absolute guarantee that a bicycle won't be stolen! But one should make it as difficult as possible for thieves:

1. 

   Invest in a good bicycle lock. Saving money here is truly saving in the wrong place. We'll explain more about this shortly.
   

2. When locking the bike, also attach it! In public spaces, always connect it to an immovable object (anchored bike stands, street lamp, fence, etc.). And not with the easily removable wheel but with the frame. Lock the chain tightly around the frame and wheel so that potential thieves cannot find a leverage point.

3. Secure easily detachable parts (e.g., front wheel, saddle) or accessories (e.g., pannier bags) with an additional lock or take them with you.
   

4. If you're in a group, lock the bikes diagonally across each other. This is multiple effort for the sticky fingers!
   

5. When transporting on a bike rack, the bike must also be securely attached to the rack. A short stop at the rest area or checking into a hotel is enough time for thieves to strike!
   

6. Choose a well-traveled street or a highly frequented square for parking in public spaces rather than a dark alley. Lockable indoor spaces like basements or bike boxes are best.
   

7. Never park the bike always in the same spot. Thieves take note of that!
   

8. Distinctively designed, unmistakable bikes are stolen less frequently than inconspicuous ones.
   

9. Take photos of the bike and all information, create a "bicycle passport," and have the bike registered with the police. Registration is a deterrent because it clearly establishes ownership.
   

And finally, a few small tips in case you have to leave your bike unattended and don't have a lock handy. This won't prevent theft, but it buys a bit of time and doesn't make it quite as easy for thieves:

• simply loosen the bike chain

• loosen the wheels

• use the helmet to lock it

The Bicycle Lock - the Enemy of Thieves

• 

  The lock plays a crucial role in theft prevention. As a rule of thumb: the more expensive your bike, the more money should be invested in a secure bicycle lock. It is recommended to invest about 5-10% of the bicycle purchase price in the lock. 

  What types of locks are there? The most common ones include:

  • Armored locks or chain locks: are coated steel chains and, as the name suggests, very difficult to crack. They can be attached flexibly but are incredibly heavy!

  • Folding locks: similar to the armored lock but not coated and with foldable links. They are slightly less flexible, more compact, but also quite heavy.

  • U-locks: are considered the most secure bike locks. However, they are absolutely inflexible and also quite heavy.

  • Spiral locks and frame locks: thieves love them; they are super light but can be quickly cut with a bolt cutter. They should only be used as additional locks, if at all.

  Since secure locks are usually very heavy, new lock variants (e.g., Litelok) are constantly being introduced to the market, attempting to solve the weight vs. security dilemma. 

  

  Conclusion:

  Any lock is better than no lock at all. But if you value your bike, you should spare no effort or cost to purchase a secure and certified bicycle lock. And, of course, you need to pay attention to where and how you park your bike. Make life difficult for the sticky-fingered individuals!

  P.S.: If you have any further questions, feel free to leave us a comment or email us your concerns. We are happy to assist you!