At a time when France is experiencing a veritable renaissance of the bicycle, with a significant increase in its use for daily transportation, leisure and sport, a major challenge is emerging: the bicycle theft. Surprisingly, more than 580 000 bicycles are stolen every year in France (according to thestudy by adma in partnership with FUB), a figure that reflects both the growing popularity of cycling and the urgent need for effective bicycle security solutions. This article aims to explore the various aspects of bicycle theft - from prevention to recovery - and to present innovative solutions for protecting these valuable means of transport.
What can I do if my bike is stolen?
If your bike is stolen, here are the steps to follow:
- Check the immediate surroundings Before concluding that your bike has been stolen, check the immediate surroundings. Sometimes, the bike could be moved or borrowed temporarily.
- Making a complaint The most important thing is to report the theft to the police. Before you go, make sure you have proof of purchase, your bike's identification number (such as Bicycode or TAGid), and photos of the bike. Fill in a pre-complaint online at www.pre-plainte-en-ligne.gouv.fr can save you time.
- Declare Theft Online Use online platforms and social networks to report theft. Sites like Vélo Perdu or Facebook groups dedicated to bike theft can be useful for spreading the word.
- Conduct Your Own Survey :
- Resale sites Keep an eye on resale platforms such as eBay or Leboncoin to see if your bike is listed there. If you find it, contact the police instead of acting alone.
- Lost and Found Contact or visit your local lost and found office. Found bikes are often dropped off there.
- Flea markets and garage sales : Look out for local flea markets and garage sales, where thieves may try to sell stolen bikes.
These steps increase your chances of finding your bike, and also contribute to the statistical documentation of bike thefts, which can help raise awareness of the problem.
What is the penalty for bike theft?
Bicycle theft is treated seriously under French law, being considered an offence. Those convicted of bike theft face up to 3 years in prison and a fine of 45.000 €. This penalty also applies to attempted theft, even if the thief fails to take the bike. Depending on the circumstances, these penalties can be increased, underlining the severity with which the authorities deal with these offences.
From January 1, 2022, bike thefts will be subject to a €250 fine if the thief is caught... Intercepting a bike thief is no incentive for the police. So, let's move on to the immediate collection of 250€.
Where do stolen bikes go?
When a bike is stolen, it can follow several routes, often determined by the value and demand for the specific bike. Here are some common destinations for stolen bikes:
- Black Markets and Resale Platforms : Many stolen bikes end up on black markets or online platforms such as eBay and Leboncoin. Thieves use these channels to sell stolen bikes quickly and anonymously.
- Personal use or local resale In some cases, bicycles are stolen for personal use by the thief, or resold locally, for example at flea markets or garage sales.
- Organized crime networks : For high-value bikes, there are organized criminal networks that can transport them abroad or sell them in markets where the bikes' provenance is less likely to be questioned.
- Dismantling for Parts Some stolen bikes are dismantled for their parts, which are then sold separately. This makes it more difficult to identify the bike as stolen.
Each destination makes the recovery process more complicated, underlining the importance of effective preventive measures.
Bicycle theft: 7 statistics from the official ADMA document on bicycle theft
Theft Frequency: 350,000 - 580,000 Bikes Stolen Annually
In France, the 2023 study reveals a significant increase in bicycle theft, with between 350,000 and 580,000 cases reported each year. This wide range suggests a difficulty in obtaining accurate statistics, reflecting a wider problem than previously estimated.
Risk Areas: 59% Theft from Public Spaces
Although 41% of thefts occur in private spaces, a majority of 59% take place in public spaces. Surprisingly, 87% of these public thefts occur despite the use of an anti-theft device, highlighting the need to reinforce bicycle security, wherever bikes are parked.
Antitheft effectiveness: U-shaped antitheft supremacy
The U-shaped lock is recommended for its ability to deter thieves. Although the type of lock varies according to parking location, the U-shaped lock remains the most widely used, particularly in public spaces, where it is adopted for 17% of bicycles observed.
Seasonality of Flights: Peak in September and October
The months of September and October, corresponding to the start of the school year and an increase in bicycle use, are the most critical, with a peak representing 31% of thefts. This seasonality must be taken into account in theft prevention strategies.
Flight times : 48% Occur during the day
Contrary to the popular belief that most thefts occur at night, 48% of bicycle thefts take place during the day, mainly in public places. This figure highlights the importance of increased vigilance and effective security solutions even during daylight hours.
EAB theft: 23% of stolen bikes are EABs
The proportion of electrically-assisted bikes among stolen bikes has reached 23%, with the majority equipped with their batteries, making them particularly attractive to thieves. This trend underlines the need for specific security measures for EABs.
Conclusion: Raising awareness and taking action for cyclist safety
Theft Frequency: 350,000 - 580,000 Bikes Stolen Annually
In France, the 2023 study reveals a significant increase in bicycle theft, with between 350,000 and 580,000 cases reported each year. This wide range suggests a difficulty in obtaining accurate statistics, reflecting a wider problem than previously estimated.
Risk Areas: 59% Theft from Public Spaces
Although 41% of thefts occur in private spaces, a majority of 59% take place in public spaces. Surprisingly, 87% of these public thefts occur despite the use of an anti-theft device, highlighting the need to reinforce bicycle security, wherever bikes are parked.
Antitheft effectiveness: U-shaped antitheft supremacy
The U-shaped lock is recommended for its ability to deter thieves. Although the type of lock varies according to parking location, the U-shaped lock remains the most widely used, particularly in public spaces, where it is adopted for 17% of bicycles observed.
Seasonality of Flights: Peak in September and October
The months of September and October, corresponding to the start of the school year and an increase in bicycle use, are the most critical, with a peak representing 31% of thefts. This seasonality must be taken into account in theft prevention strategies.
Flight times : 48% Occur during the day
Contrary to the popular belief that most thefts occur at night, 48% of bicycle thefts take place during the day, mainly in public places. This figure highlights the importance of increased vigilance and effective security solutions even during daylight hours.
EAB theft: 23% of stolen bikes are EABs
The proportion of electrically-assisted bikes among stolen bikes has reached 23%, with the majority equipped with their batteries, making them particularly attractive to thieves. This trend underlines the need for specific security measures for EABs.
ByCommute's answer: Secure bike shelters reduce the risk of theft
ByCommute's secure bike shelters are an effective solution to bicycle theft, often perpetrated by thieves looking for simplicity and opportunity.
- Thief deterrence : Secure shelters offer a robust physical barrier, making theft more difficult and less attractive. In fact, 90% of bicycle thefts are thefts of opportunity, targeting poorly secured bikes.
- Optimal Security ByCommute's partitioning and locking options increase security, discouraging theft attempts due to the added complexity of accessing bikes.
- Visibility and surveillance Well-designed, strategically-placed shelters provide better visibility and can be integrated into guarded areas, further reducing the risk of theft.
By opting for ByCommute solutions, local authorities and private companies not only contribute to bicycle safety, but also to the promotion of a safer, more reliable cycling environment.
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