How to Lock a Bike

If you're going to leave your bike unattended for any period of time, even for just a minute, it should be locked. And if you don't want it stolen, it should be locked properly.

• Always lock the frame to a stationary object, preferably a bike rack. Don't lock your bike to wooden objects, street signs that aren't securely bolted to the ground, movable objects, or handrails (that's rude).
• Keep your bike locked to something even when it's in your garage or backyard!
• Use a secure lock, such as a U-lock or heavy duty chain. Cables, padlocks, and cable locks can be cut easily.
• Use a cable to secure your wheels (and saddle).
• If you can't find a decent place to lock up your bicycle at your destination, consider contacting the city to request a bike rack.

Your trusted local bike dealer can help you select the hardware and show you how to use it. You'll also find lots of info on the internet, e.g., from the SF Bicycle Coalition.

Bicycle Theft

In 2010, 1052 bicycles were reported stolen in Calgary.  Many bike thefts go unreported, so the true number of bicycle thefts in Calgary is certainly quite a bit higher. The Calgary Police Department recovers about 800 bicycles a year as lost or stolen.  If your bicycle is stolen, the best chance you have of recovering it is by reporting the theft to the police.

If there are suspects or investigative follow-up is required (e.g., if the area where you locked your bike is covered by video surveillance or if there are witnesses), report your stolen bike by calling the Calgary Police Department non-emergency line (403-266-1234) or visit a district office.  Otherwise, and if your bike was worth less than $5,000, you can report the theft online.  You can also report theft of parts and vandalism using the online system.

In addition, post in the stolen bike forum. Your bicycle may show up on classifieds listings, so it may be worthwhile to check craigslist or kijiji.  In rare cases people have recovered bikes after posting flyers with pictures around the neighborhood.

You should keep the serial number of your bicycle (usually stamped on the underside of the bottom bracket), proof of ownership (sales receipt or repair receipts), and description of bicycle and parts (preferably a photo) in a safe place.  You may also consider registering your bike. Although Calgary Police does not check recovered bicycles against bikerevolution.ca as a matter of course, they may do so in the future, or your bike may end up in another jurisdiction where police do use that site. Calgary Police do use the Stolen Vehicle and Bicycle database of the Canadian Police Information Centre, though, both to record bikes reported stolen and to locate owners of recovered bicycles.

You should also contact your home owner's or tenant's insurance and inquire about an endorsement for your bicycle(s), if their replacement cost is high enough.

Comments? Questions? Post in the Stolen Bike forum.