Public Safety Resources
Tips for Bike Theft Prevention
Preventing Bike Theft
Bicycle
theft is an ongoing problem at this and every college. Most bicycle
thefts can be prevented by taking simple precautions. You can also
substantially increase the chances of recovering your bicycle should it
be stolen.
Register Your Bike!
Of over 15,000 bicycles
stolen in the U.S. every day, only 2-5% are ever returned to their
owners. One of the best ways to ensure your bike is recovered is to
have it registered. You can register your bike with the City of
Minneapolis.
Securing your Bike
Securing Your Bike Using a Cable Lock or Chain
- Use a cable or chain at least 3/8" in diameter.
- Use a key lock with a 3/8" hardened shackle with heel and toe locking.
- Pull up all slack in the cable or chain and make sure the lock is as high off the ground as possible
Securing Your Bike Using a "U"-type lock
- Bike with quick release wheels- release the front wheel and include this with the rear wheel and frame.
- Bike without quick release wheels- secure the lock through both tire and frame.
DO:
- Secure to a bicycle rack. College regulations do not allow
bicycles in campus buildings or secured to trees, signposts, hand
railings, etc. Contact Buildings & Grounds for more information
regarding this policy.
- Record make, model, and serial number and keep in a safe place.
- Inscribe your driver license number on the frame.
- Report your stolen bicycle to the security department as soon as possible.
- Report suspicious persons observed near bicycle racks.
- Use authorized bike racks on campus. Off campus, secure your bike in a frequently travelled, well-lit area.
DO NOT:
- Leave your unlocked bicycle unattended "just for a minute."
- Use cable or chain lock, no matter how large, as they are easily defeated with bolt cutters.
- Secure to chain link fencing or other objects significantly weaker in strength than your lock.
