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Page Last Updated:
Thursday, 29 May 2008 |
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Home>Emergency Services>Central Victoria Police>Crime Prevention>Bicycle Security
| Introduction | |
Almost 10,000 bicycles are stolen in Victoria every year. This represents a cost to the community of approximately $4.0 million per year.
The Facts about bicycle theft:
80% of bicycles that are stolen, were left unlocked;
Very few bicycles are returned to their owners because it is difficult to trace a bicycle to its owner;
50% of bicycles that are stolen are taken from people's homes; and
90% of people do not lock their bicycles at home.
This brochure outlines some simple measures that you can take to prevent your bicycle from being stolen.
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| Four Easy Steps to Bicycle Security | |
To prevent your bicycle from being stolen, to increase the chances of it being recovered if it is stolen, and to minimise your financial loss, you should:
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| 1. Use a good quality lock | |
Bicycle locks can be made from solid metal bent into a U shape (U locks), flexible metal cables (cable locks), or a chain and padlock.
U locks generally provide a higher level of security than cable or chain locks. However they are heavier and cannot be used to lock your bicycle to larger objects, such as power poles or trees. If you require assistance in selecting a bicycle lock to meet your needs, contact your local bicycle shop.
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| 2. Lock your bicycle properly | |
When parking your bicycle, it is important that you:
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 | lock it to something that cannot be removed or the bicycle lifted over; | | park it in a place that is in full view of the public; and | | park it in a place that is well lit.
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| Parking rails should be used where possible. They support the entire bicycle and provide a number of locations where the bicycle can be locked.
When locking your bicycle it is also important that you:
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| lock the frame and wheels to the parking rail. This is particularly important if your wheels have quick release mechanisms, and | | remove items of equipment that could be easily removed by others. This includes such items as lights, computers, pumps, panniers and saddle bags.
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| When at home, keep your bicycle locked or securely stored in a locked shed or garage.
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| 3. Be able to identify your bicycle | |
If your bicycle is stolen, the chances of it being returned are improved if:
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| your driver licence number is engraved on the frame, and | | you keep a record of your bicycle's serial number and a photograph of your bicycle.
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Engrave your driver licence number
An effective method for identifying your bicycle is to engrave the letter "V" (for Victoria) followed by your driver licence number on its frame.
If your bicycle is stolen and then recovered, the Police will be able return your bicycle using your licence details.
People who do not have a licence may like to use the licence of a relative or a friend.
Record your bicycle's serial number
A bicycle's serial number is usually stamped onto the frame near the pedals.
You should make a record of your bicycle's serial number and keep it in a place where you can access it, if needed.
Take a photograph of your bicycle
Having photographs of your bicycle will allow you to give police an accurate description of its type, make, size, colour and characteristics. It will also assist the police and yourself to identify your bicycle when it is recovered.
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| 4. Insure your bicycle | |
Bicycles can be insured against theft and damage. The most cost-effective way may be to insure your bicycle as part of your home contents insurance policy. Ask your insurance company for details.
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| Recording your bicycle's details | |
Fill in the attached form titled 'Recording your Bicycle Details' and then keep this in a safe place, in case you need it.
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| Further Information | |
For further information on bicycle security please contact:
your nearest police station for details of your Division Crime Prevention Officer,
or
Bicycle Victoria on telephone: (03) 9328 3000 or 1800 639 634 or www.bv.com.auFebruary 2000
This brochure is a joint initiative of Bicycle Victoria, Retail Cycle Traders Australia, Victoria Police Crime Prevention Office, the RACV and VicRoads.
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| NOTE : The recommendations contained in this document do not claim to be comprehensive or all embracing nor do they imply that no other risk exposures exist to those mentioned. The Victoria Police, in providing this information, does not endorse any particular product or service and makes no representation nor gives any warranty or guarantee concerning the safety of persons or property.
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