4 tips to prevent bike theft
Article updated on March 20, 2024
Do you ride a bike to get around? If so, you’ve chosen an active mode of transportation that’s healthy, eco-friendly and practical!
However, the risk of bike theft is a very unfortunate reality you’ve got to live with. But there’s good news, too! By following these four best practices, you can prevent thefts and get your bike back more easily in the event it’s stolen.
1. Use a high-quality lock
To prevent your bike from being stolen, purchase a high-quality lock recommended by a specialized retailer. According to a Protégez-vous article (in French), U-locks are the most secure.
2. Lock your bike to a suitable rack
Lock your bike to a rack designed for bicycles rather than a fence, tree or other element of the urban landscape. Bike racks are usually designed to prevent thefts.
When you combine cycling with train or bus travel, you can park your bike at one of the four indoor bikezones at some of our stations and terminals:
- Vaudreuil station
- Sainte-Thérèse terminal and station
- Sainte-Julie terminal
- Terrebonne terminal
We recommend you book your spot to avoid having to lock your bike to an outdoor bike rack.
3. Register your bike
You can do so through the 529 Garage organization, or contact your local police station to see if they offer this service. If your registered bike is stolen, you’ll have an easier time getting it back if the police recover it. And don’t forget to report a bike theft!
4. Avoid leaving your bike in the same place too long
Leaving your bike in the same place for several days in a row is not a good idea. Bike thieves see this as an opportunity for an easy theft. Always assume that a stranger knows where your bike is parked.
By adopting these four best practices, you’ll significantly reduce the likelihood of your bike being stolen when you ride around town. You can never be too careful.
To learn more about travelling with your bike on the public transit network in Greater Montréal, click here.
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