4 golden rules to avoid bike theft
1 - Buy a good anti-theft device
What type of anti-theft device?
Equip yourself withat least one U-shaped lock. Even a bad U is better than a good cable. A good U-lock is the best protection against theft. It's an investment that pays for itself the first time it's stolen!
Choose an anti-theft device rated at least :
- "2 wheels" ❂❂ in FUB anti-theft tests
- or "* *" in ART tests (Netherlands)
- or "Gold" in Sold Secure tests (United Kingdom)
- A fixed (or frame) lock, used in addition to a U-lock, is recommended because it’s very convenient for a “quick stop” or for locking the rear wheel. In high-risk situations (big cities, at night, etc.), two U-locks are a useful precaution. The typical dimensions of this type of lock are as follows: a shackle 10 cm wide and 25 cm long. Be sure to check the space between the front wheel and the frame’s down tube.
What weight?
An anti-theft device can't be both strong and light: the recommended anti-theft devices weigh between 1 kg and 1.5 kg. Unless you're on a sporty hike or a long-distance trek, you're only a kilogram away.
What price?
It is advisable to invest at least 15% of the price of the bike, with a minimum of €30.
Lock side
When purchasing, check to make sure no keys are missing from the package.
Be wary of light alloys, such as “zamac,” which can be recognized by its matte gray appearance.
If you want to be particularly thorough: some locks that can be closed without using the key are more vulnerable to attempts to open them without the key.
2 - Always lock
your bike
We often hear: “Don’t leave your bike parked in a secluded spot.” But this advice is too simplistic: many thefts occur in broad daylight on busy streets, where the thief uses a discreet tool or simply claims to have lost the key to the lock. Any bike can be stolen: neither the bike’s appearance nor its age is enough to deter thieves.
Locking your bike, even for a short time
Some thieves are on the lookout for bikes left in front of a store “just for two minutes.” In this case, a frame lock lets you lock the bike’s rear wheel without wasting any time.
Locking your bike, evenindoors
Did you know that one in two bicycle thefts takes place at home? Whether in your cellar, garage, courtyard or building lobby, your bike is never safe. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, locking your bike, even indoors, is an essential precaution. Protect your property where you think it's safest.
3 - Lock the bicycle frame
to a fixed point
- Attach the frame and, if possible, the front wheel (easier to steal) to a fixed point.
- It's best to hang your lock high up (50 cm minimum) to reduce the risk of burglary. If possible, tilt the lock downwards to make it easier to pick.
- Make sure the frame cannot rotate freely, for example by securing it to two points or preventing it from being lifted.
- If your U is too small to attach the frame and front wheel, it's often possible to attach the frame and rear wheel to the fixed point by passing the U through the rear triangle tubes.
4 - Make your
his bike
BicyCode marking is an identification system for bicycles, designed to combat theft and facilitate the return of recovered stolen bikes. If your bike is stolen and is one of the 40% of stolen bikes that are usually recovered, it can be returned to you.
It's a unique number, tagged or engraved on the bike's frame, which is registered in a national database (FNUCI) accessible to law enforcement agencies.
BicyCode marking makes it more difficult to resell stolen bikes, as buyers can easily check whether a bike is stolen by consulting the database.
The identification system also encourages greater responsibility on the part of bike owners.
Our practical tips
to avoid bike theft
Replace quick-release fasteners with nuts
If you often park in town and rarely use your bike for long distances off-road, replace quick-releases with nuts, especially for the saddle, which is often stolen.
Remove easily detachable parts
Avoid leaving "clip-on" accessories—especially lighting—that can be easily removed on your bike when it's parked.
Combine a U lock with a cable for your accessories
You can also opt for a U lock with a cable. This can be used to secure accessories (e.g. saddle), or to wrap it around a fixed point if you can't do so with your U.
Add a chain for extra safety during short stops
Some models of fixed bike locks, designed for short-term parking, also come with an additional “plugger” chain.
Avoid U-locks with alarm
Opinion of the anti-theft committee on U-locks with alarm: in addition to the significant extra cost and the problem of changing batteries, it should be noted that inserting the electronic device into the lock case greatly weakens the anti-theft device, making it much more vulnerable. Triggering the alarm is not a decisive factor in terms of deterrence, as opening a U-lock cannot be done discreetly in any case.
