10,000 bicycles reported stolen each month are “tip of the iceberg”

The 10,000 bicycles reported stolen to the police each month represent only a fraction of the number that go missing, according to the Environmental Transport Association (ETA).

The latest quarterly crime figures have revealed that despite an overall decrease in reported crime, cycle theft is up by 7 per cent – a figure that equates to 10,000 bicycles stolen each month.

However, the ETA believes most cycle theft is not reported to police because the bike is uninsured and it is generally accepted that stolen bicycles are unlikely to be recovered.

The ETA estimates that as many as 20,000 bikes are stolen every month.

Director of the ETA, Andrew Davis, said: “A need to economise during the recession has driven commuters out of their cars and onto bikes, and inevitably with more cyclists has come more cycle theft.”

Protect your bicycle from theft

At the very least, cyclists do the following to protect themselves against theft:

• Protect your bike: Aim to spend around 10 per cent of the value of your bicycle on a lock. Look out for a Sold Secure rating – the Silver and Gold-rated locks cost more but can be a good investment.

• Protect your wallet: Cycle insurance pays out if your bicycle is stolen and costs from as little as 33p a week

Cycle insurance from the ETA is fully comprehensive. As well as covering against theft and vandalism, the policy allows you to claim for accidental damage such as that caused by a pothole. It also includes third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will come out and recover you and your bike. More…