Bike Locking

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Theft Prevention

Registering your bike and ensuring that it is locked properly are the best ways to prevent your bike from being stolen. See the video below for some tips on how to lock your bicycle:

 

Bicycle Locking Tips

Invest in a high-security bike lockAn unlocked u-lock

Always use a secure, high-quality bike lock, such as a u-lock.

High-security locks require more time to defeat in comparison to chains or cable locks, which can often be defeated by bike thieves in seconds.

Consult with your local bike shop for help in choosing a lock and how to use it effectively.

 

Store your bicycle inside whenever possible A secure bike storage building

Whenever possible, store your bicycle inside or in a locked garage. Avoid locking your bike on the front porch or at the side of the house/building.

Residents living in high-rise apartments and condominiums should store their bike in a designated secured enclosure if available. 

 

Lock the frame and wheel to a secure bike rack 

A bike locked to a post and ring rack with a u-lock and a cable lock When locking your bike outside, lock the frame and at least one wheel to a secure bike rack, such as an inverted-u or post and ring rack.

If possible, secure the second wheel by using a high-quality cable lock.

Avoid using bike racks that are damaged or not properly anchored.

Avoid locking to objects that can be moved, dismantled, or destroyed to free your bike - such as street signs, fences, and even small trees.

 

Lock your bike in visible, well-lit, high-traffic locationsA bike locked outside, in a public, well-lit area

Public bike racks located on sidewalks or in front of businesses are generally safe for short-term daytime parking. 

Avoid locking your bike in concealed areas with poor lighting and little to no surveillance opportunities. 

The more visible your bike is, the less likely is it will be targeted for theft.

 

Don’t forget your accessories

Bike accessories including a water bottle, a removable bell, a removable light and a helmet Even if your bike is locked securely, accessories and bike parts are often targeted by thieves.

Be sure to take your helmet and easily removed accessories with you – such as lights, water bottles, bells, and gear bags.

For added security, swap quick release parts (such as seat posts and wheel axles) with bolts or secure hardware. Ask the experts at your local bike shop if you need any help.

 

Tips for Safe Bike Buying and Selling 

When buying a used bike, meet in a public place and verify that the serial number isn’t listed as missing/stolen on 529 Garage. 

When selling a bike that you’ve registered, don’t forget to transfer the registration to the new owner on 529 Garage. No personal information will be shared.

529 Garage

Even a properly locked bike can be stolen with enough time and effort. The City has partnered with Kingston Police and Cycle Kingston to provide a bicycle registration service through 529 Garage. Registering your bike through 529 Garage increases the likelihood your bike will be found and returned to you by police or others in the community. Bikes bearing the 529 Shield also warn thieves that it is registered, acting as an additional deterrent to theft.

How It Works

Registering is quick and easy – just download the 529 Garage app from your smartphone or tablet, or head to the 529 Garage website.

Download from the Google Play Store Apple App Store

Enter the important information about your bike, including serial number, brand, and colour. Add photos of your bike too - the more information you provide the easier your bike will be to identify.

Shield your bike – The tamper-resistant 529 Shield acts as an additional deterrent, warning would-be thieves that your bike is registered. The shield also makes it easier to find your bike if it is recovered. You can pick up a shield at Kingston Police Headquarters, or purchase one through Cycle Kingston or a participating bicycle shop.

If your bike goes missing, it’s easy to report it as stolen or missing using 529 Garage app or website. 529 Garage will send out an alert to the community so that others can keep an eye out and notify you if your bike is found.

Once you’ve marked a bike as missing or stolen, 529 Garage will direct you to Kingston Police’s online reporting page. Filing a police report is a requirement to legally claim your bike back if it is recovered by any Police department in Canada. There is no cost to report your bike as stolen to Kingston Police.

Where can I find the serial number to register my bike?

The serial number is often engraved or embedded into the frame, though it may also be printed on a sticker affixed to your bike. Look carefully!

Most bicycle serial numbers are located under the bottom bracket where the two pedal cranks come together. Simply turn your bike upside down and record the number.

The diagram below shows the five most common serial number locations.

 

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