Bike Theft and Security

Protecting Your Bicycle

In the United States, a bicycle is stolen every thirty seconds. With bike theft doubling in the last 20 years, this is clear proof of a profitable crime with fairly limited risk.

Even when a stolen bicycle was recovered, it was difficult to get back to the rightful owner as there has been no centralized database of serial numbers. Without a database, it was difficult to prove the bike was yours, and police had little recourse in breaking up bike chop shops because they couldn’t prove the bikes were stolen.

Our partnership with Project 529 changes all of that.

The City of Corvallis Active Transportation Group and the City of Corvallis Police Department in partnership with Project 529, encourage you to register your bicycle to deter theft and help ensure you get your bike back if it is found. Registration is free and increases the chances your bike will be returned to you if it is lost or stolen.

Here’s how it works:   

  1. Visit the Corvallis Project Registration Page and/or download the Project 529 App
  2. Locate your bike’s serial number
  3. Upload a photo of your bike. The more images, the better for recovery
  4. Fill out as many details as possible

Oregon State University also registers student and faculty bicycles with Project 529. Learn more.

 

 

Selecting Your Lock

Do not use cable locks as all are effortlessly cut, providing easy crimes of opportunity.

When selecting the proper lock, only consider types made by a reputable, brand-named company.

Three lock types are recommended that provide the most secure protection:

 


U-Lock


Folding Lock


Heavy-duty Chain and Shackle

 

 

Locking Your Bicycle

It cannot be stated enough, always lock your bicycle to a secure, permanent object, even if you will only be leaving it for a few minutes.

Use only designated bike racks. If one is not available, make sure to lock your bike to a metal structure securely fastened to concrete.

Select a visible, well-lit area where you or others can see it and make sure all removable parts of your bike are secure, or removed. Secure the lock through the frame and wheel with one of the techniques shown below:

 

 

Using GPS Tracking for Your Bike

 

For an extra layer of security, consider installing a GPS tracker on your bike. These devices allow you to track your bike’s location if it is stolen, increasing your chances of recovery. Many trackers are small enough to be hidden in clever areas, such as under your seat, in the handlebars, or inside the seatpost, making them more difficult for thieves to detect. Researching GPS models and capabilities, along with your bike style and setup will help determine what is right for you.

Select a GPS tracker that:

  • is small and discreet
  • is rechargeable and has a battery life of several weeks or months
  • provides real-time tracking through a mobile app
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