Protecting Your Investment
You've invested in a quality bike so it's important to protect it from theft.
Registration Services
While there is no required bike registry in Portland (or many other cities) there is an option for registering your bike in Oregon and beyond: Bike Index and/or Project 529. Both of these online services provides a place to record all of the information you'd need to reference if your bike is stolen and it is FREE. They also have searchable databases for bikes listed as stolen. We highly recommend listing as much information as possible, including your serial number and a current photo of your bike (not the manufacturer's stock photo). We’ve recovered more than a couple of stolen bikes ourselves using Bike Index but couldn’t have done it without the serial number and custom photo.
Theft prevention
There are two primary facets to prevention: common sense and quality locks.
Common Sense
Common sense and intuition may be some of the best tools you have for keeping your bike safe from theft. All locks can be broken, and all parts on your bike are vulnerable. So, learning to secure your bike appropriately is critical.
Keep your bike safe by locking it properly, not leaving it in sight from the street overnight (even if locked), and using the best lock you can afford. Even if you're on a budget, NEVER (EVER) use a cable lock. Did we say NEVER use a cable lock? We mean it. It’s just not worth the risk.
Do trust your instincts; if you get a bad feeling about an area, use high-risk security measures (super tough and/or multiple locks) or find another place to park. For more info about theft prevention, the fine folks at the City of Portland have great tips and advice.
We're happy to share our protocols for locking bikes, so ask if you want specifics that are best for your bike.
Locks
You invested in a quality bike, be sure to secure it properly! We recommend the best security you can afford to assure that your bike stays yours. In addition to the locks listed below, you may also want to replace quick releases with bolt-on skewers. And, owning a good lock doesn't make your bike 100% theft proof. Knowing how to use the lock and using common sense in high-theft areas is also required. We're happy to go into greater detail with you when you purchase your bike. Let us help you keep your bike safe.
Our preference is a system with multiple levels of security that allows you to lock both wheels, secure the frame, and even your seat and seat post. Here are some of our favorites:
Abus Bordo Granite X. Our recommendation for use in areas with highest theft risk and on high value bicycles.
Abus Bordo 6000/6100. Light, compact and great high security, available in combo or key lock options.
Kryptonite NY Cinch Ring and Fuhgettaboudit Chain. Both of these Kryptonite locks offers "bombproof" superior security and versatility so you'll be able to lock your bike securely in any situation.
U-Locks. There’s quite a variety of U-lock security levels from basic to NY City safe. But, u-locks are a great compliment to any bike security system.
Abus Wheel Lock. The perfect cafe-friendly lock many bikes. This lock usually mounts to the rear seat stays of a bike and securely locks the rear wheel to keep unauthorized users from riding off on your bike. We still recommend a U-lock, Bordo, or other high-security lock, for theft-prone locations but this lock is ideal for coffee shop or city park stops.
Abus Cobra Seat Saver. A simple lightweight 5mm wide, 75mm long cable that secures your seat and seat post. Especially important if you have a quick release seat post clamp.
Krytonite Kryptoflex Cable. Great for use with in conjunction with Bordo, or U lock, for those needing to secure both wheels.
Hexlox. Hexlox allows you to secure the parts on your bike: lights, wheels, seats, brake levers, and more. Prices vary depending on items being secured
Theft Insurance
Every insurance policy is different so check with your agent to confirm whether or not your bike is covered under your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy. Many companies do not cover e-bikes so make sure you have the coverage you want before you need to file a claim. We don’t have a comprehensive list (or understanding) of which companies are offering e-bike insurance…so, we really can’t make a recommendation. However, the following companies are known to offer e-bike coverage. (if you know another agent or company we should add to this list, please let us know.)
Velosurance. Velosurance offers online bike insurance quotes.
McClain Insurance. For Oregon and Washington customers wishing to work directly with an agent.