Since school started, Campus Safety has investigated at least three bicycle thefts. Below are some ideas on keeping your bike safe.

Lock your bike. Most bikes are not locked when they are stolen. An unlocked bike is an invitation to bike thieves. Even if you’ll be gone for just a minute, always lock your bike.

Use a good lock. Since bikes often cost several hundred dollars, it is important to protect that investment. The best lock for use on college campuses is a quality, hardened “U” shaped lock.

Secure your bike properly. Lock your bike parts in order of replacement cost: frame. rear wheel, front wheel. At the least, secure your frame tube and rear wheel to a bike rack or immovable object.

If you have a quick-release front wheel, take it off and secure it also with your lock.

Choose your parking place wisely. Whenever possible, lock your bike to a bike rack located in a well-lit, populated area. Locking your bike next to one that’s more expenisve is also not a bad idea.

Avoid locking your bike in the same place each day. By moving your bike around, you make it more difficult for a potential thief to locate.

License your bike. Be sure to register your bike with Campus Safety or the police. That way if it is stolen, the police will have all the information they need to identify your bike.

Help prevent campus bike theft. Be observant around bike racks, even when your bike is not there. Report suspicious persons to Campus Safety.