Don't get it nicked

Make a note of the information on your bike now

Jot down your frame number (usually under the frame), and make yourself a specification sheet detailing all the parts on your bike. Take photographs of your bike and record the key number of your lock. Keep these in a safe place.

Where and how

• Never try to hide your bike away down a dark alley. This just lets the thief work unnoticed. In fact, thieves go around looking for hidden bikes in back alleys. Park your bike where it is clearly visible, in a well-lit, open space. Although this means thieves are more likely to see your bike in the first place, they are also far more obvious if they try to steal it.
• Always attach your bike to something with cannot be moved or broken. If possible, lock your bike to secure railings, a lamppost or a cycle stand. Take off anything which can be stolen.
• Use a good lock. Look for the ‘Sold Secure' mark. ‘Sold Secure' products are categorized into Bronze, Silver and Gold ratings and offer at least 1, 3 and 5 minutes of resistance to thieves.
• Lock your bike through the frame and the wheels. It may be practical to have more than one lock to do this. Perhaps a D lock, linked to a cable lock passing through the front wheel.

Some people make their bike very distinctive with stickers and colourful sticky tape or even make it look a bit trashed! Whatever you do remember, the bottom line is:  Lock it or lose it !

BikeRegister

Gloucestershire Constabulary have launched a new scheme called BikeRegister. This scheme has been shown to reduce cycle thefts by 75%.

More information can be found on the Gloucestershire Constabulary website or by contacting John Whitmarsh who is the Crime Prevention Design Advisor on 01452 335324 or you can send an e-mail.