THEFT PROTECTION
BIKE GONE – NOW WHAT?
Let's start with some good news:
RUFF CYCLES bikes are rarely stolen – they stand out, are hard to resell, and attract attention. If they do disappear, they often resurface for these very reasons. However, you shouldn’t rely on luck.
With this blog post, we not only want to ease your worries a bit but also equip you with useful tips. Let’s get straight to the facts:
According to police crime statistics, the number of bicycle thefts dropped by 0.6% in 2023, down to around 264,000 cases. Good news! At the same time, insurance claims for stolen bikes are skyrocketing. Why? Bicycles – especially eBikes – are becoming more expensive, and more of us are insuring our valuable rides.
This makes sense because the clearance rate for bicycle theft remains extremely low: In less than 10% of cases, the stolen bike is returned to its owner. While the numbers for our bikes look a bit better, here are the most important theft prevention mechanisms for you:
Lock it in!
Yes, any lock is better than no lock – but every lock can be broken. The key factor is how long it can withstand an attempted theft. After about three minutes, most criminals lose patience, and curious glances from passersby do the rest.
Sturdy chain or U-locks made of steel increase the frustration level for thieves. Important: Always secure your bike to a stable, anchored object like a bike rack or railing. Otherwise, it can simply be carried away.
Always lock the frame, preferably through closed sections. A well-secured bike is no fun for thieves.
Tracker: Always Keep an Eye on Your Bike
GPS trackers are a great way to keep track of your bike. If they are not permanently installed, hide them in inconspicuous spots on your bike so thieves won’t easily detect them.
If your bike does disappear, you can track its location. But be careful: Don’t put yourself in danger, don’t trespass, and always inform the police if in doubt. Your safety comes first!
Insurance: Covered for the Worst-Case Scenario!
There are now many insurance options that not only cover theft but also other damages. Do your research and get insurance for your bike – especially if it’s an expensive model.
Conclusion:
Prevention is better than regret, and “better to have and not need than to need and not have.” Get your bike insured, invest in a high-quality lock, and keep an eye on your bike remotely with a GPS tracker!
Stay Safe – Your RUFF CYCLES Crew
