Bike theft reaches its peak in the summer as more of us are out enjoying the weather. Unfortunatley, bike thieves are also out looking for easy targets.
Bike theft has been on the rise since 2009, according to a RCMP. In 2012, there were 433 bike thefts in the Capital Regional District alone.
“The majority of stolen bicycles are disassembled and sold for parts”, said Gary Schenk, head of the Regional Crime Unit (Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition, February 11, 2013).
North Vancouver R.C.M.P. recommend 10 simple steps to securing your bike, and preventing bike theft:
1. Never leave your bike unlocked in public.
2. Use a high quality lock.
3. Remove the seat and/or wheel as a deterrent.
4. If leaving your bike unattended in or on a vehicle, lock it to the vehicle.
5. If leaving your bike unattended in or on a vehicle, choose your parking spot carefully.
6. Never lock your bike by the front wheel only.
7. Use 2 locks: a U-lock, and a cable lock.
8. If you must store your bike in a condo/apartment building, avoid storing it in the underground parking lot.
9. If you must store your bike in a condo/apartment building storage unit, use high quality locks and remove the seat and/or wheel.
10. Take a photograph of your bike, and record the serial number, so it can be identified if stolen.
It is also worth making sure that you have insurance against bike theft. Many homeowner policies will only cover bikes if you have them specifically included on your plan. Talk to your agent and make sure your bike is insured.
Jayne Embree, M.A.
Jayne holds a Masters in Psychology and is a highly experienced Divorce Coach and Child Specialist. She is currently working with the Administrative and Human Resources Departments of Butterfield Law.