Preventing Bicycle Theft

Protect your bike by registering it

While registering your bike won't keep it from being stolen, it greatly aids in its return
to you if it is recovered by the police. The police will not give you back your bike
unless they have proof that it belongs to you. In addition, it helps the police identify
and locate the proper owner.

For bicycle registration go to LUS Customer Service at 1875 W. Pinhook Road. Registration fee is $5.00
LUS will forward the registration to the Lafayette Police Department.


Self-register your bike

Record your bike's serial number and other descriptive information and store in a safe
place. Use our Operation Safeguard form to record the serial number and description
of your bicycle. Then store the form in a safe and memorable place.
 

What to do if your bike has been stolen

Report it to the police. Provide simple descriptive information (and a photo if you
can) and your serial number, if you have it. If you remember any distinctive marks,
such as scratches, include those in the description.
 

Preventing Bicycle Theft - How To Lock Your Bike

• Always lock your bike's frame and wheels with a high-quality, modern U-lock (with a disc/flat key).
• Remove all detachable items like lights, bags and quick release parts and take them with you.
• Lock to a bike rack, or firmly affixed (bolts covered in concrete) object - these are the most secure places.
• Record your bike's serial number. Take a photo of you and your unlocked bike.
• Keep the receipt. All will help you identify the bike.
• Always lock your bike, even if you're just leaving it for a moment.
• Only buy a U-lock with a flat or disc key. Cylindrical keyed locks are more easily picked.
• Always lock through the frame and a wheel. Add a cable, cable lock, or a second U-lock to lock the second wheel.
• Beware of locking to "sucker poles" that are loosely bolted down and can easily be removed.

For more information on how to properly lock your bike, please see our Preventing Bicycle Theft PDF.