Crime reduction 

Cycle security

Please consider the crime prevention advice below to make sure that your bicycle is safe against theft and damage. About 50% of people do not lock their bike correctly.

• Record and register your bike.
• Apply security and forensic marking to the bike frame and any removable items.
• Invest in an electronic tagging system, such as Datatag and have it fitted to the inside of your bike frame.
• Keep your bike out of sight. Where possible, store your bike in a secure garage or shed and keep the door locked. More than half of all bicycle thefts take place from an owner's property.
• Always lock your bike - even if you're leaving it for just a few minutes. Secure it to a fixed object, such as a bike rack or ground anchors. Use a u-lock or heavy duty chain to do this. This applies when leaving your bike at home, as well as away from home. Thieves can remove drainpipes and lift bikes off signposts. Keep the gap small between your bike and the lock.
• Visit the Sold Secure website (opens new window) for certified bike locks, or visit your local bike shop. The recommended minimum lock standard is a hardened steel D-shaped lock.
• When you're out and about, don't leave your bike in an isolated place - make sure that it can be seen.
• Keep a separate record of your bike’s chassis number.
• Secure any removable parts - lock both wheels and the frame together.
• Take out insurance, either by extending your home contents insurance or use a seperate policy. Cycling organisations and bike shops may offer specialist insurance cover.
• Provide secure storage for cycles at your place of work.

For more advice, please contact your local crime prevention and reduction adviser.