Cycle theft up 7 per cent

Despite a recent drop in overall recorded crime, the latest statistics show that the number of bicycle thefts reported to the police has increased.

The quarterly crime figures have revealed that in the three months to September 2009 there was a 7 per cent increase in bicycle theft; 34,600 bikes were reported stolen over this period.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Occasionally a stout lock is not enough – these figures highlight the need for good cycle insurance.”

Do I need cycle insurance?

Based on the latest quarterly crime figures, the short answer is yes. Bikes are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else. Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement, third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike.