News release

Protect your bike from theft

April 14, 2026 - Kelowna, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP

Content

Spring has sprung in the Okanagan after one of the driest winters on record.  With the temperature rising, those cyclists who put away their bikes back in October are starting to come out of hibernation.  

The Kelowna RCMP reminds all cyclists to secure their bicycle to keep it safe as the warmer weather can give thieves more opportunities to steal. While theft can occur at any time of the day, bike thieves strike during daylight hours and primarily target bikes parked in parking lots, on streets and in public parks.  

Bike theft is a crime of opportunity as thieves hunt for quick access with minimal resistance.  We can all do our part and keep bike theft at a minimum this spring and summer by taking extra precautions as the RCMP encourages these safety tips to help prevent theft:  

• Always lock your bike with a high-quality U-lock or heavy-duty chain, 
• Secure your bike to a fixed object in well-lit, high-traffic areas, 
• Store bikes indoors or in locked garages when not in use, 
• Register your bike with websites like Project 529, 
• Take photos of your bike, record the serial number, make, model, speed, value, and any other distinguishing factors.  

Beginning this May, the City of Kelowna will once again host the “bike valet” downtown on Mill Street at the mouth of Bernard Avenue where cyclists can park their bicycles for free in the valet while they enjoy exploring downtown Kelowna.  The City also offers the “Loan-a-Lock" program at the Parkinson Rec Centre and the Bikeep smart racks, the high-security, parking and charging docks situated across the city.   

For more information on steps you can take to protect yourself and your bicycle please visit the City of Kelowna’s Community Safety Toolkit. If you are the victim of bicycle theft, contact the Kelowna RCMP non-emergency line at 250-762-3300 or online at Online Crime Reporting | Kelowna RCMP (rcmp-grc.gc.ca). 

Contacts