Because no one wants to get their bike stolen
Look around campus at any given time and you can probably spot a bike rack (or two!). Cycling is the most efficient way to get around, get exercise, and be eco-friendly — all at the same time!
And yet, only the strongest seem to survive. Cyclists and bike thieves are engaged in a cut-throat — or rather “cut-lock” — struggle, with no end in sight.
But don’t despair. Whether you’re looking for a new source of cardio, or just want to be on time for class, you can still do it by bike. Here are some basic tips for keeping your two-wheeled steed in your possession.
WHICH LOCK(S)? Which lock(s)?
The best balance between security, cost, and portability is a U-Lock and a cable. The U-Lock captures the bike’s frame, the thing you are locking to, one of the wheels (if possible), and the cable. The cable, as an added precaution, secures any wheel(s) that the U-Lock can’t get at.
If your only option is to use one lock, then it must be a quality U-Lock. Cheap locks aren’t usually any good, and good locks aren’t cheap! Never use a cable alone to secure your bike; while economic, they are cut in seconds by a thief’s most common tool: bolt/cable cutters.
HOW TO LOCK UP
The most expensive parts of your bike are the frame and the wheels. The “Sheldon Brown lock strategy” secures both the frame and the rear wheel with a single U-Lock. Using this method, the front wheel can also be removed and secured with the lock, or a cable can be used to capture the front wheel.
Fill as much space as you can inside a U-Lock with “stuff” — frame, wheel(s), bike rack — to make lock cutting more difficult. Good locking habits also involve keeping a lock away from the ground so that using an angle grinder against it becomes a bigger task.
Many bikes attach the seat post and wheels with a quick release (QR) lever for easy adjustment. Thieves take advantage of QR to swipe seats and wheels, no tools required. Switch out your QR seat post clamp for a bolt-style one for less than $10. You can also replace QR wheel skewers with a bolt- or pin-based version, but this may put an extra dent in your wallet.
Other easily removable accessories, such as lights or mini pumps, should be taken off of your bicycle if parked for long periods of time.
DON’T RIDE A PEACOCK
If you commute by bike, don’t use something overly fancy or colourful. Leave those four-figure, brand name race bikes at home! Blend in instead: choose discreet frame colours, like grey or black, whenever possible. If your bike utilizes disc brakes (braking surface is a rotor disc, not a wheel rim), be sure to secure those: thieves prioritize these wheels for their value. Front and rear suspension on mountain bikes also screams, “I’m expensive!” to a passer-by.
NOT ALL RACKS ARE EQUAL
Ensure the object that you’re locking to cannot be moved or altered. Choose high-traffic, open areas with lots of light; in front of a store, window, or entrance is also a good idea. Avoid leaving your bike locked on campus overnight whenever possible. At home, store bikes indoors.
Record the serial number of all your bikes and take pictures of them. Register bikes online with the brand and a third party database, such as bikeindex.org or project529.com.
The onus is on you to keep your bike safe. Good luck out there!