Police are reminding residents about bike security following an increase in thefts recently.
Thefts have been from private residences and bike shops. Cycles are a popular target for thieves because they can so easily be stolen and sold on.
Police have issue the following advice to help you keep your bike safe.
- Keep your bike secure, always lock them whenever you leave them, even if you just going to be a few moments. Bikes get stolen from communal hallways, gardens and sheds.
- Mark the frame with your postcode. This will help us to get it back to you if we find it - we have thousands of unclaimed unidentified bicycles.
- Get your bike frame marked with your postcode and stick on a 'Coded Cycle' sticker to let thieves know.
- Get a 'recorded cycle' form from your local police station or bicycle dealer and take a photograph.
- Record all your bike's details so that if your bike is stolen and then recovered, we will be able to match it to the description.
- The best kind of bicycle locks are made of a loop of solid metal. Chains deter casual thieves but can be easily cut with the right equipment.
- Always lock your bike to something solid like a lamp-post or railings. If you have a quick release wheels, take off the front wheel and lock it to the frame and back wheel. An increasing number of bus and railway stations in West Yorkshire have secure "sheds" where you can lock your cycle, safe from crime...and the weather!
- Register your bicycle model, make and frame number. This assists the police in returning recovered bikes to their rightful owners. This can be done via Immobilise (www.immoblise.com) and BikeRegister (www.bikeregister.com).
- Take a clear colour photograph of your bike and make a written record of its description, including any unique features, so that you can report it accurately if stolen.
- Use locks of gold 'Sold Secure' standard. Also, use two different types of lock, with at least one being a high quality D-lock. It takes thieves a few seconds to cut through poor quality locks - make it as difficult for them as possible.
- Don't buy a stolen second-hand bike. Insist on proof of ownership and check the bike frame number at BikeRegister.
If your bike has been stolen, contact the police. Give them your frame number, Immobilise or BikeRegister number, photo and any other details.
Take out insurance, either by extending your home contents insurance or through a separate policy. Cycling organisations and bike shops may offer specialist cover. Do this at the time of purchasing the bike, otherwise you may not get around to it.
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