Preventing bike theft

Choosing the right bike lock and taking a few extra steps when you park can go a long way toward protecting your bike. Follow these tips to help keep your bike safe:

Use the best lock type.
High-quality locks, like U-locks, work best. Avoid cable or chain locks as they can be cut or broken easily. You can also combine a U-lock with another lock for added safety.

Securely lock your bike.
If possible, lock your bike to a bike rack. Don’t lock your bike to objects that can be easily removed, cut, or broken. Set the keyway to be facing the ground, as this prevents a thief from having easy access to the lock. Do not leave your bike unlocked.

Make sure your lock is the correct size.
Locks with a lot of extra room will give thieves an advantage.

Lock your bike in a safe place.
Be sure to lock your bike in a well-lit area. Remember that bikes are not to be parked or stored in a way that blocks entrances or exits. Bikes also can’t be placed in pedestrian walkways, stairwells, hallways, or other public areas in University buildings. Place the lock through the frame, rear wheel, and the bike rack. Be sure to remove the quick-release front wheel and secure it through the U-lock as well.

Stay aware of your surroundings.
Be watchful of people at or around bicycle racks who appear to be “checking out” the bikes. A bike owner will normally walk directly to his or her own bike, whereas a thief will survey all the bikes, looking for an easy target. Call Public Safety at (585) 275-3333 right away to report any suspicious activity you observe.

Engrave your driver’s license number or State ID number on the bike frame.
Start with the two-letter initials for the issuing state. This nationally recognized format can help recover your bike if it is stolen (example: NY 123 456 789)