New Mexico State University Police Department

Crime Tip #1

How to Protect Your Bicycle Against Theft

Bicycles can be stolen from just about any place and at any time. Last year, 64 bicycles were reported stolen from campus. By taking a few simple precautions now, you can help deter bicycle thieves, and perhaps prevent your bicycle from being stolen later.

• Always securely lock your bicycle. Whether you are leaving for only a few minutes or for a few hours, be sure to securely lock your bicycle. Remember! All a criminal needs is a few seconds to take an unlocked bicycle.

• Lock your bicycle with sturdy locks & secure your bicycle correctly. Most bicycles that are stolen are either unlocked, locked improperly, or are locked with inadequate locks and/or chains. Good quality "U" shaped locks tend to be the most effective type of lock for securing your bicycle. Although the "U" lock is the most effective lock, it can be defeated, just as any other lock on the market. However, the harder the target, the less likely your bicycle will be stolen. Thieves tend to target those bicycles that will take the least amount of time to take. Lightweight chains and cables can easily be cut with a pair of pliers or bolt cutters. You should always use bicycle racks and lock your bicycle through the frame and both wheels. Also, be sure to secure any loose parts, such as a removable seat or quick release wheels. If they can’t be secured properly, you may want to consider carrying them with you.

• Check on your bicycle regularly and move it from time to time. Lock your bicycle in a well-light, visible area. If you don’t ride your bicycle often and just leave it locked to a bike rack for several days, it becomes a target for "parts scavengers", as well as bike thieves. Check regularly on your bicycle to make sure it is still secured and that all the parts are still attached. Even if you don’t ride your bicycle, move it from one bike rack to another or even from one space to another, so it is apparent that you use it and/or check on it regularly.

• Register your bicycle with the NMSU Police Department. The NMSU Police Department will obtain all the important identifying information from your bicycle, to include the make, model, color and serial number. This information will be placed on file with the NMSU Police Department. In the event that anything happens to your bicycle, the NMSU Police Department will have all the necessary information for filing a police report and to enter the bicycle into the National Crime Information Center. The NMSU Police Department will also provide you with an identification sticker to place on your bicycle. This service is free to all NMSU students, faculty and staff and is highly encouraged. You may register your bicycle Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the NMSU Police Department. For additional information you may call the Crime Prevention Office at 646-3424.