For many students, bikes are the quintessential cheap mode of transport. However your bike can also be used by thieves to make an easy buck at your expense. Though bike theft is uncommon relative to the population on campus it is still a reality. Between 50 – 100 bikes are stolen every year and if you are a bike theft victim the impact is not small. Deprived of your speedy mode of transportation with short notice you will be forced to navigate the complex bus system, walk or (gasp) even take a taxi. Never fear, by taking the appropriate measures you can decrease your chances of being one of the unfortunate few.
How to protect your two-wheeled ride:
A sturdy u-lock is your friend. Unlike flexible cable locks which can inconspicuously be sniped through with wire cutters, sawing through a u-lock creates noise. It also requires more intensive machinery and someone stealing your bike is more likely to be identified. This is the number one lock type recommended by campus police.
Lock up in major thoroughfares. The more potential witnesses around, the higher the chance a thief will be caught.
Make sure to put your lock through the front wheel AND the frame. Either could be easily stolen if unlocked. If there is nothing to lock the bike to locking the wheel to the frame will make moving the bike difficult and less of a target.
In case your bike is stolen write down your bike serial number so if the bike is found it can be easily identified. Engraving something identifying like your passport number in to the frame is also beneficial.
Pimp it out. The more obnoxious (ahem, I mean super fantastic looking) your ride, the easier it will be to recognize and the less likely it is someone will want to steal it.
There are of course more ways to protect your ride, but these are the main ones. Have fun biking around this year and the most important reminder of all, ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET! You might always pay attention and act predictably but I can guarantee others won’t.
Leave a Reply