There are lots of times we need to leave our electric bikes unattended. For example, if you’re popping into a shop you may have to leave your bike outside for a short while. Likewise, if you cycle to work, you may find that your bike is out of sight for extended periods. If you’d like to know how to keep your bike safe and secure, why not try implementing these tips and precautions?

 

Consider electric bike insurance

If your e-bike is vital to your daily commute, it might be worthwhile taking out an insurance policy to cover it. Insurance policies can also cover damage to your e-bike, which means in the event of a minor accident you will be able to arrange for a replacement or repairs. In addition to taking out an insurance policy, it is also recommended that you note down the serial number of your electric bike. This way, if it is stolen and eventually recovered by the police, you will be able to demonstrate proof of ownership.

 

Lock your e-bike up wisely

e-bikes are often used for commuting, which can make them easy targets for theft - particularly if an electronic bike is parked in the same area every day. To deter would-be thieves, try changing where you park your e-bike each day. Alternatively, if your workplace has enough space, you might want to bring your bike inside. If this is simply not an option, you should consider parking your electric bike next to other bikes, as the coming and going of other cyclists to the bike rack could deter criminals and reduce the chances of your bike being stolen. Opportunistic thieves often steal electric bikes during unexpected situations, or when your guard is down. Think of a garage door left ajar, for example. This can be an invitation for a thief to steal your electric bike - so always remember to secure your doors. While some of these practices can seem a little obvious, sometimes a friendly reminder can help keep them at the forefront of your mind.

 

What to do if your e-bike is stolen

While implementing various security measures can certainly reduce the likelihood of bike theft, it's important to understand that no single strategy can guarantee complete protection. If you do find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having your bike stolen, there are a few key steps you can take to try and recover it. Firstly, make sure to file a report with the police, even though they may not always investigate individual bike theft cases, it's still important to do so in case they come across it during other operations. Additionally, many insurance providers require that you report the theft within 24 hours, so it's important to contact them as soon as possible. Furthermore, checking online marketplaces for your stolen bike can also be a helpful step in the recovery process. However, if you find your electric bike for sale on social media or online auction sites, we do not recommend arranging to meet the seller. Instead, you should notify the police and take screenshots of the listing to aid them in recovering your property.