Safety and Security

There’s nothing worse than having a bike stolen. Here are some tips for preventing theft, recovering your bike if it is stolen, and other resources for bike safety. 

• Reporting Collisions and Near Misses: BikeMaps.org is a helpful tool for cycling safety as it allows cyclists to report thefts, collisions, and near misses to help map trouble spots.
• When you buy your bike, record the purchase and serial number. Take photos of your bike including photos of the serial number (usually stamped on the bottom of the bottom bracket).
• Registering your bike: You can register your bike online with Project 529 and in person with your local police department such as VicPD. Registering your bike and reporting it if it is stolen greatly increase your chances of having your bike recovered and returned to you.
• Theft Prevention: Never use only a cable lock, instead use a sturdy U-lock or metal folding lock. Lock both your frame and one  wheel to a proper bike rack. Avoid leaving your bike locked up outside overnight. Click here for more details on preventing bike theft.
• In Victoria, many cyclists use the Stolen Bike Avengers Facebook group to help look for their bikes. It can be very helpful. If your bike is located, call the police to recover it. The police strongly advise people to not try to recover stolen bikes on their own.