Bike Theft
Both the University of Bristol and University of the West of England cite bike theft as a massive issue on and off campus. Every year hundreds of bikes are stolen due to poor quality locks, or having no locks at all.Just like with personal valuables it is important to MARK YOUR BIKE so that if stolen the police can return your bike if recovered.
To be effective, a security mark must:
- Be clearly visible
- Be securely fixed
- Be placed in two separate locations on the bicycle and not on any part of which is readily removable or replaceable.
- Give clear information that will quickly lead the finding the owner of the bicycle.
Marking and registration schemes
There are a number of companies on the market which will offer to security mark your bicycle with a unique number, and cross reference this to your personal details on their computer database. If you choose to use this service make sure that:
The security mark applied meets all the criteria set out above.
The mark is accompanied by the company’s telephone number.
The company you use is following the National Cycling Forum’s Code of Practice for Security Marking and Registration of Pedal Cycles which has been endorsed by the police and the Home Office.
Register your bike with Immobilise. (www.immobilise.com)
Locks and bolts
An important point to note is that price is not necessarily a reliable indicator of quality. You should look for products that have been tested against attack. Look on the packaging and also ask your retailer for advice. One of the key ways to judge lock quality is to know how long it can resist being attacked by thieves.
To guard against the opportunist thief you need a product that has resisted attack for one minute.
To guard against the determined thief you need a product that has resisted attack for three minutes.
To guard against a dedicated thief you need a product that has resisted attack for five minutes.
When considering purchasing a “D” chain or cable lock, always look for the Sold Secure logo. This means that a product has been attack tested, which will offer a better quality and good protection against thieves.
Safer Bristol and Avon and Somerset police have a webpage available to show you which locks to buy to beat the cycle theives.. Go to www.halgradesyourlocks.com