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How to Deter Bicycle Theft and Keep Your Bike Safe
Few things ruin a great day faster than walking outside and finding your bike gone. While no security method is 100% foolproof, a little know-how goes a long way toward keeping your wheels right where you left them. Here’s how to make your bike a far less tempting target.
1. Choose the Right Place to Lock Up
Thieves look for easy opportunities. Always lock your bike to a permanent, immovable object- like a sturdy bike rack or bolted post.
Avoid:
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Scaffolding: temporary and easily dismantled
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Stop signs or poles: bikes can often be lifted right off
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Fences or gates: they can be cut or unlocked
When possible, park in well-lit, high-traffic areas. Thieves hate attention, so visibility is your friend.
→ Watch Our Video: How to Properly Lock Your Bike
2. Use the Right Lock (and Use It Right)
A U-lock, folding lock, or heavy-duty chain lock offers the best protection. Cable locks alone can be cut in seconds.
When locking:
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Secure your frame and at least one wheel to a solid object.
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Position the lock so it’s off the ground and hard to access with tools.
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Keep your lock tight-- the less room for leverage, the better.
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Remove any easy-to-grab accessories like lights, bags, or your saddle if it’s quick-release.
→ Pro tip: If you're in a high-theft area, consider doubling down with two different types of locks. Thieves often specialize in one kind-- so make them work twice as hard.
3. Register Your Bike
Take five minutes to register your bike with the National Bike Index. It’s free, and if your bike is ever stolen, this database helps law enforcement and local riders identify and recover it.
You should also:
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Record your bike’s serial number (typically found under the bottom bracket)
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Snap photos of your bike from multiple angles
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Keep your proof of purchase handy
→ Brooklyn Bicycle Co. customers can also register their bikes through our warranty registration page for added peace of mind.
4. Store Smart at Home
Most thefts happen at home, not on the street. If you have a garage or shed, make sure it’s locked and well-lit.
Live in an apartment? If at all possible, bring your bike indoors or secure it to an interior fixture using a heavy lock. Out of sight means out of mind.
5. Think Like a Thief
Before you walk away, ask yourself: “If I were trying to steal this, how easy would it be?”
A thief’s ideal target is a nice bike locked poorly in a dark, quiet spot. Make yours the opposite.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your bike doesn’t require paranoia-- just good habits. With the right lock, smart parking choices, and proper registration, you can dramatically reduce your risk and ride with confidence.
Was your bike already stolen? That sucks, but we've got your back. See how with our Stolen Bike Discount Program.
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We build bikes for vivid lives—for taking adventures, reconnecting with old friends, discovering new neighborhoods and exploring hidden gems. Inspired by the streets of Brooklyn, our bikes are built for style, comfort, and durability. Made with top quality parts, crafted with care, and sold at an affordable price, your bike is yours for life. We scrutinize every component for maximum sustainability and performance, and every millimeter of the frame for ultimate comfort and style. We take pride in our process, in our products, and in the people who sell them.
