Bicycle Security

Remember that stolen bicycles can be easy for a thief to sell. Make sure that you mark your bicycle frame with your post code or a code name.

Marking kits are available from the Sutton Library in St.Nicholas Way, Sutton. The police also arrange "marking days" when they will mark the bike without charge. You can also obtain stickers for bicycles warning the thief that the machine has been coded. Your Crime Prevention Officer will be able to give you further details.

Always lock your bicycle when leaving it unattended. Solid bicycle locks are better than chains. Chains can be cut with the right equipment.

The best type of locks are the "U" or "D" locks also known as shackle locks which are generally regarded as the most secure type of lock.

Always lock bicycles to something solid like lamp posts or railings. If the front wheels come off easily lock it to the frame and back wheel.

It is a good idea to take a photo of the bicycle which will assist in identification if it is stolen.

A fairly new innovation is the introduction of cycle alarms which go off when a bicycle is moved.

Some types of alarms are very visible and therefore will act a a deterrent to the thief to even touch the bike.

DO MAKE SURE You always lock your bike especially at home. Most bicycles are stolen from outside the home or from garages and sheds.

Lock the bike to an immovable object.

Position the lock away from the bottom part of the bicycle so that it cannot be hammered against the ground.

Take lights and other removable objects with you when you leave the bicycle.

If you are unfortunate to experience the theft of a bicycle The British Cycling Federation has a Insurance Scheme to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Details of the scheme can be obtained from the BCF, phone 0161 230 2301.