Bike Theft Prevention

Tips:

  • Use a U-Lock instead of a cable lock. U-Locks are solid steel and are very hard to cut. Cable locks can be cut easily.
  • Don’t secure your bike with a cheap lock.
  • Always secure your bike to a bike rack or solid object. Secure both wheels and frame.
  • Remember that locks are only a deterrent.
  • Report all suspicious persons loitering around bike racks by calling 911.
  • If it can be removed, it can be stolen!  Quick release tires and adjustable bicycle seats are good examples of parts that are stolen easily.
  • Engrave identifying markings on anything removable to aid in recovery, but better to secure your bicycle parts so that they cannot be removed easily.
  • Keep a record of your bike’s serial number.
  • Download VPD's Bicycle Theft Prevention Flyer HERE

Register your bicycle:

In cities where bicycle registration is mandatory, thefts of bikes are less likely to occur since they are not as easy to sell as un-registered bikes.

If your bicycle is registered with the City of Ventura we can quickly pull up your information from our database if your bike is recovered. The registration records are kept in our in-house records management system and are checked when a bicycle is recovered.

Bicycle Registration also aids in identifying the owner of a bicycle in case of a crash. Many bicyclists don’t carry identification with them - this is especially true for children. It could take hours for emergency personnel to make positive identification and contact a parent if a child is hurt, or scared or confused.

REGISTER YOUR BIKE HERE

Questions? Please contact Crime Analyst Amanda Valenti at avalenti@cityofventura.ca.gov.