If you’ve ever had your bike stolen or borrowed without your permission, you’ll know how upsetting it can be. Here's our advice on keeping your bike safe and out of the hands of thieves, and what you cando to try and get it back if it is stolen.
Cycle security
Register your bike for free. Request a free bike marking kit from the Oxford Brookes University Online Shop and we will send it to you. You can also buy bike lights and locks from the Online Shop.
Over one million bikes are already registered with BikeRegister.
1. Register it
Get your bike security marked and registered at BikeRegister. It’s a highly effective, visible deterrent to bike thieves. They know that if they are caught with a registered bike, the owner can be traced and they will be arrested. You can also register your bike's details on Immobilise, another free site.
2. Record it
Remember to make a note of details of your bike. Record the frame number (normally found underneath the bike between the pedals or where the back wheel slots in), the BikeRegister number plus any other distinguishing features, and take a photo too.
3. Double-lock it
It can take thieves as little as a few seconds to cut through some locks, so use two good quality locks, at least one of which is a D-lock.
4. Lock the lot
Secure your bike as close to the stand as possible to give any thieves little or no room to manoeuvre.
5. Secure it
Lock the frame and both wheels to the cycle parking stand.
6. Remove the removable bits
Take parts that are easy to remove with you. Or use locking skewers or nuts which can increase security by securing the bike's components to the frame permanently, making it difficult for thieves to steal detachable parts.
7. Park secure
Lock your bike at recognised secure cycle parking. It should be well lit and covered by CCTV.
8. Remember, safety begins at home
Take the same care to lock your bike securely at home as you would on the street.
9. Check ownership
Ask for proof of ownership and check the bike frame number on the Bike Checker at BikeRegister.
10. Act fast
If your bike has been stolen, contact Security and Thames Valley Police (by calling 101 or you can report it to us online). Give them your frame number, BikeRegister number, a photo and any other details and make sure you update the status on BikeRegister. The sooner we know, the sooner we can act, which might stop it being sold on.