Bike Thefts Hit 500,000 in UK
It is reported that there are over 530,000 bikes stolen every year in the UK and the problem is getting worse.
Bike theft is a real concern for all cyclists and with some cycles costing thousands of pounds, as many enthusiasts will tell you further steps are now required to protecting your prize asset.
So what can we do about it? Well we start with a good sturdy lock and chain for our bicycle. Remember if you are going to leave it for long periods in any one place, maybe outside a work place or favourite entertainment venue, try and use different locations as thieves will get to know where and when you leave your bike. If you leave it in a regular spot for long periods of time it won’t be long before you face a real threat of having it stolen
May of us are now starting to cycle to work and with the increase costs of running a car and the associated environmental issues, more and more, quite rightly, are using this mode of transport. If your work place provides a place for you to park your bicycle ensure that it is well secure and that if possible, it is left in a place where CCTV can see it or in a place where there is a regular flow of people.
What is really surprising is that in 2010 just over 115,000 thefts were reported to the Police meaning that somewhere in the region on 1 in 5 thefts go unreported. The Police need to know about the thefts in order to take complaints seriously, you are doing yourself and others a real injustice if you don’t report it. They will only take it as a serious issue if they know about it.
Also, remember that many insurance companies will require a crime number for any insurance claim so if you are unlucky enough to have yours stolen, report it first and then your insurance claim will be processed much more quickly. Also keep a detailed record of costs, both purchase costs and keep receipts for any accessories that you may have bought for the bike.
Finally many thefts of cycles happen at or around the home. Don’t leave the bicycle unattended for long periods, even if it is on your drive. It takes seconds for a thief to take your bike. Also to protect is from garage thefts and damage try investing in a bike storage kit. There are many on the market available at affordable prices that will store your bike off the floor and on the wall. Securing your bike in a well organised, tidy and secure garage will make your hobby much more enjoyable and your bike a lot safer.
