BIKE READY – Bike Security Advice 2/2

Enhance the chance of recovery following a theft

Every bike sold in the UK has a unique serial number stamped or etched on the frame. Always take note of this number, frame size, make, model, and keep this information in a safe place. Keep an up-to-date photograph of your bike. Many of us have our bikes for years and over time parts are added and replaced including tyres, handlebar tape, saddles, bottle cages etc, also include dents and scratches. These changes and imperfections also make your bike unique and more readily identifiable.

A recent addition to the market is GPS bike trackers. Some of these devices include an audit-able alarm system.

Security marking and labelling also enhance the chance of bike recovery. Registering your bike with an independent register which is accessible to the police 24/7 is also beneficial.

Lastly should the worst happen, bikes can be insured individually or added to your house contents insurance, this won’t help to get your pride and joy back but it will lessen the upset and inconvenience. Make sure to read the small print to comply with the terms and conditions this could mean that you need to use a particular standard of lock or store the bike at a certain location overnight.

BikeRegister is the UK’s national cycle database and the leading online bicycle identification and registration initiative aiming to reduce cycle theft, identify stolen bikes and assist in owner recovery. BikeRegister is used by every UK Police Force.

Costings

• Participants can take notes either using pen and paper or on their mobile.

• This activity can take part indoors or outdoors, in person or virtually.