SECURE YOUR FRICKEN BIKE ALREADY!!
As a bike mechanic and cyclist I seem to hear these dreaded words almost every other day: “My bike got stolen!”. I hope to the cycle lords I never have to say those words to anyone about any bike I own! It happens quite often and as bicycling gains more popularity than anything out there, bike thefts increase in parallel day by day. Ive recently heard of people making their living off of stolen bikes! Ive heard of bikes getting stolen from anywhere and everywhere you can imagine. Like second story balconies in an apartment complex, locked up in high traffic areas at campus or stolen from 10 feet behind your back standing in front of a bar! Wheels with quick release axles and seats can quickly get knabbed within seconds and your out expensive parts and an unrideable bike! The best thing you can do is bring it in with you everywhere you go but that can be hard. Its a very good idea to keep the word “Secure” in mind and not just “locked up”.
Tips to remember: Dont ever leave your bike unlocked, dont leave it in plain sight at the end of a walkway or driveway (people wont steal it if they cant see it) , Always use a U-lock or super thick cable or the “mega chain”, most of these you have to use a loud abrasive bladed grinder to cut. Chemicals and long prybars can be used to “pop” certain locks so make sure there isnt a big “gap” between your bike and the lock: make the connection as tight as possible. If you have a super expensive bike dont take it out for a quick ride to the store and lock it up outside. Dont use super skimpy cable locks you buy at the dollar store! These can be cut with hand held wire cutters, YES, WIRE CUTTERS! Keep you bike “Secure”, out of site, stored safely or locked up with a very good lock and you will have a better chance at keeping your two wheeled investment.
Lock your FRICKEN bike!!