Published: Sept. 30, 2020

Bike thefts, the No. 1 crime on campus, are happening more frequently this semester. Since the beginning of the 2020–21 school year, 100 bikes were reported as stolen from campus. Here are some tips to prevent thefts.

Bike racks on campusMake it hard to steal

In the vast majority of bicycle thefts, the bicycles were either unlocked, improperly locked or locked with inadequate locking devices such as lightweight cables or chains.

Use a U-lock (and get one for free)

You should always carry a secure lock whenever you plan to leave your bicycle unattended. The U-lock style of locks has proven to be most effective, but like all locks, they can be defeated. Use a high-end U-lock to reduce the chances of your lock being defeated.

You should always exercise care in where and how you lock your bike. Always lock your bicycle through its frame and front tire to an approved bicycle parking rack. You can get a free U-lock from the Environmental Center and CU Boulder Police by trading in your used cable lock at one of the CU Bike Stations.

Register your bike

You can register your bike for free at one of the CU Bike Stations. Registering your bike discourages theft and aids in identification should your bike get stolen. In addition, any personalization on your bike (stickers, markings, etc.) should be documented and kept. All of this information should be stored and saved along with purchase receipts, manufacturer’s information and a photograph of the bicycle.

Report the theft

If your bicycle is stolen on campus, you should report the crime immediately to the CU Boulder Police Department. Reporting it quickly and providing the police with descriptive information such as the serial number and your registration number—if you registered with the university—increases the chance of recovery.

To report the theft of a bicycle, got to CUPD’s online reporting system.

If you happen to witness a bike theft, either by force or stealth, dial 911 immediately and inform the dispatcher where you are and what is happening. Try to remember as much as you can about the suspect(s) for police reports.