Protect your bike from theft

While a theft of your bike can take just minutes, the inconvenience and financial loss will last much longer.

Never leave your bike unlocked in public

High end mountain bikes are often stolen from the back of a pick-up truck or vehicle in large parking areas, specifically malls.
Secure underground parking lots at apartment/condo complexes are continually targeted in all seasons.

Never lock your bike by the front wheel only.
1. Always lock your bike with two quality locks: use a U-lock and a cable lock. By using more than one style of lock it will take thieves two types of tools and twice as much time to steal your bike.
2. Take the extra step and remove the seat or a wheel as an extra deterrent.
Avoid leaving your bike on or in your vehicle.
If storing your bike at your residence, store it in a safe location using a lock or on your property inside a locked area.
If you are leaving your bikes in the back of a vehicle, lock them to your vehicle. Choose appropriate places to park.

Record serial numbers (regardless of the value of the bike) so that they can be added to police computer records, helping bikes be identified if located.
Photograph your bike, as a reference, to assist police in identification.
Most bike stores keep serial numbers and information of your purchased bike. Check with your local bike shop to obtain that information if your bike does get stolen.