Guidance for Security Against Violent Bike Theft
There has been several high profile bike thefts and violence to cyclists and as a club we are supporting media attention to improve policing and crime prevention.
This guide is intended to assist you to consider what mitigating factors you may want to take. Please note we recognise it is up to each rider to choose if they want to reduce or change their cycling routine and not something the club will recommend for them. If you have more than one bike you may want to consider using your winter bike / less expensive one before sunrise.
Cameras
There are many action based cameras which can record your ride and incidents that you may encounter. A selection of cycling camera reviews can be found here:
Many of these cameras are placed on the bike and the focus has typically been on dangerous driving as well as recording a great ride. You may want to consider a camera that is on your body or helmet and is highly visible to act as both a deterrent and that you have the recorded footage available.
Some suggested body cams are here – please note none of these have been tested by us and are meant as helpful suggestions Amazon body cameras
Get Insured
If you are involved in a potentially violent incident you should prioritise your own safety and give your bike up. Giving up your bike is much easier if it’s insured. Some home insurance covers bikes up to a certain value and you should check what your policy covers. Specific bike insurance companies are below:
Laka – Laka.co
Yellow Jersey – yellowjersey.co.uk
Bikmo – bikmo.com
Velosure – velosure.co.uk
Pedalsure – Pedalsure.com
A review of insurers and a comparison quote can be found here:
Cyclingnews.com / Moneysavingexpert.com
Bike Registration – bikeregister.com
Bike registration is the preferred police register to identify and mark your bike and you will find details how to do this online. Registering your bike is free and you can also purchase additional security marking kits.
Use GPS Trackers
If your bike is stolen you may be able to track it by using a GPS Tracker. A guide to trackers is here:
Popular and inexpensive trackers that use your phone to locate the tracker include:
If you are able to track your bike then call 999 as this is classified as an active and ongoing crime.
A combination of both tracking and insuring is backpedal.co. It works on the basis of installing a tracker and activating a subscription for theft recovery so that should your bike be stolen and recovery is not possible you are insured.
Use a Personal Alarm
You may want to consider attaching a personal alarm to your bike or carry one. They work on the basis of creating a loud noise that alerts people that you need help and hopefully scares off the attacker. A full guide to personal alarms can be found in this link:
Follow your instincts
If you feel that you’re being followed or suspect something isn’t right then consider some of the following:
Ride to a busy area
Stop at a café and secure your bike
If you’re involved in an incident
If you or another ride is involved in an incident you must call 999 and inform the police.
You are also asked to let the committee know as we are working with others to build pressure to increase policing for cyclists.