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3. Conclusion
On average, 77,313 bikes are reported stolen in the UK every year. While data from the Office for National Statistics doesn’t tell us how many of these are e-bikes, studies show that e-bikes are three times more likely to be stolen than regular bikes. This is because they’re worth more, readily available, and easier to resell in the black market.
So, how do you keep your e-bike from being stolen?
Tips to prevent your e-bike from being stolen
These tried-and-tested strategies on e-bike security will keep your ride safe and secure:
1. Insure your e-bike
Insurance is not a requirement for e-bikes to be considered roadworthy in the UK.
But since theft is rampant, you should get your ride insured. It will cost you £5 to £300 annually, but your policy provider will have your back in case of theft or accidental damage.
Choose from the best e-bike insurance providers in the UK that offer sufficient coverage and affordable premiums. Depending on the insurance you get, you can be covered for various unplanned events such as public liability, personal accidents, collision, theft, fire, vandalism, and accidental damage.
2. Invest in quality locks
This one is a no-brainer but it’s still one of the easiest ways to secure your bike and save yourself from a major headache. Since picking one lock is easy for a skilled and determined thief, employ a system of locks. Top choices include:
Folding locks. They’re less secure but are easy to use.
Cable locks are suitable for short stops.
U-locks have smaller shackles, making them difficult to break with crowbars and hydraulic jacks.
A chain padlock prevents damage to your bike’s frame and comes in a variety of link and chain sizes but they can be bulky.
Multiple locks are more difficult to break into, so a burglar will have to spend more time trying to walk away with your ride or parts of it. If you can spare the money, we recommend going for a model that emits a high-pitched alarm.
Imagine trying to get away scot-free when everyone’s attention is on you! Anyone tampering with your bike won’t stand a chance.
3. Location matters
Many people park their e-bikes in alleyways because it’s easier to do. But with fewer watchful eyes, it’s also easier for thieves to steal their bikes.
That’s why you must park your e-bike in a well-lit location with plenty of foot traffic such as busy streets, places with video surveillance, or within your view. Thieves are less likely to put their hands on objects that don’t belong to them if they have an audience since there’s a high chance of getting caught in the act.
Additionally, park in a different spot each time so thieves will have trouble keeping up with you.
4. Make your e-bike less desirable
This can be done in two ways:
Use a bike cover. Though it isn’t foolproof, it’s great for camouflaging your e-bike.
Customize it. Make it less marketable by personalizing it with your name, using fake rust to give it an ‘aged’ appearance, or parking it beside a shinier model. If the thief thinks it has a lower resale value, they’ll leave it alone.
5. Register your ride
This isn’t mandatory since electric bikes are considered the same as regular bicycles, but it is a crucial part of e-bike safety. Register your ride on bikeregister.com with your bike’s serial number. It will show proof of ownership and give you the best chance of tracking and recovering your bike should it get stolen.
6. Remove the battery
Without a battery, an e-bike is a regular bike and a heavier one at that.
So, as a precautionary measure, you should look for a model with a removable battery. This due diligence is essential. When you’re in doubt about e-bike safety, you can simply lock your bike, remove the battery, and take it with you wherever you go. Voila! You take the power source away, rendering it useless and undesirable since batteries account for almost 30% to 40% of the bike’s value.
That explains why they’re the most commonly stolen part of an electric bike.
7. Secure it to an immovable object
Putting locks on your bike isn’t enough. You must also secure the frame to an immovable surface, making it more difficult for thieves to wheel it away.
Look for a solid object, such as cemented bike racks, steel parking meters, and heavy metal posts. Secure the frame and wheels to it. Using this setup, even the most crafty thieves won’t be able to get your e-bike out without causing damage. And who wants damaged goods?
While we’re on the subject, it’s best to avoid securing your ride to trees as well as wooden and chain link fences. They’re easy to cut through and thus don’t provide any protection.
8. Think about storage
E-bikes are often stolen from garages and sheds as these places are not attached to the main property, making them less secure. If you want to reduce the risk of theft, park it in a designated spot indoors. As a bonus, doing so will keep your ride safe from the elements. You can also invest in security cameras or motion detectors.
9. Use a GPS tracker
A GPS tracker or Apple AirTag carefully placed inside your e-bike can prevent bike theft. They rely on Bluetooth connectivity to help you keep track of your bike in real time and will notify you if your bike is moved by an unauthorized party, alerting you to a potential theft and making recovery easier.
But if you can’t afford the tech, you could simply put a sticker saying “GPS protected” to make it less of a target.
Your safety matters too
E-bikes are a game-changer for traveling. But because they’re faster and heavier, they can be much more dangerous. According to a 2019 study, e-bike riders have a 17% risk of sustaining internal injuries compared to about 7.5% of pedal-bike accident victims. They are also more than 3 times as likely to be involved in a collision with a pedestrian.
That said, you can lower your risk with these safety precautions:
Follow road safety rules and regulations.
Slow down when you approach intersections.
Make sure that your tires are at the right pressure for better control.
Wear bright clothing at night to alert other drivers of your presence.
Always wear a helmet, preferably with multi-directional impact protection.
Check your bike before riding it to ensure it’s roadworthy.
Watch what you wear. Clothes should be loose enough to ensure a comfortable ride but not so loose that it could get caught in your bike’s chain or pedals.
And, of course, don’t carry passengers. E-bikes are designed for transporting one rider at a time.
Conclusion
With these e-bike safety and security tips, you can have the ride of your life while minimizing the risk of theft. Prepare for potential security issues by taking proactive and preventive measures like the ones recommended in this article.
If you haven’t purchased an e-bike yet or are considering an upgrade, check out our e-bike collection. GIN e-bikes offer various features like sturdy brushless motors and hydraulic brakes for a top-tier riding experience.