St Cross College, Oxford

In Oxford over 3,000 cycles are stolen ever year. Most of those cycles are stolen because they are either unlocked or inproperly locked (for example, the frame being locked to the wheel or with a single wheel locked to an object). Some locks will be picked/broken, but theives will start with the cheap, poor-quality locks because they are easily opened. By purchasing a suitable lock and using it in an intelligent manner, most cycle theft can be prevented.

When purchasing a lock, the best rule-of-thumb is to spend at least 10% of the cost of your cycle on the lock and never to spend less than £20 on the lock. The most reliable type is a D-lock - a solid metal hoop - and even a cheap D-lock will be more resistant than a cable. For around £35, it is possible to purchase a D-lock that will resist all but the most determined thief. Cable locks are okay but unless it is an expensive (£35 or more) cable lock, it is not recommended to be left outside overnight, especially in a vulnerable location. Finally, always get a key - combination locks are very easy to crack and the Oxford Cycle Workshop does not sell them for that reason.

Once you have a decent lock, to properly lock your cycle is simple: through the frame, and round an immovable object.

"Through the frame" means through a closed section of the frame, such as the front triangle. Additionally, if the lock can also pass through a wheel, it provides additional security.

"Round an immovable object" means anything which is bolted down, such as a cycle rack or an iron railing. If your immovable object is a signpost, be sure that the cycle and lock cannot be lifted over the top of the post. Additionally, a cable (with loops at each end) is useful when locking a cycle to a larger object (such as a lamppost or roadsign).

Another area where thieves can strike is at your wheels and saddle. Many new cycles are sold with quick release wheel and saddles because they are useful for mending punctures, storing the cycle, or for adjusting the riding position, but they are also convenient for thieves. They can be replaced with normal nuts and bolts but they can easily be undone with a cheap cycle spanner. A better solution is to replace them with locking skewers because, with the key, they are convenient as quick releases.

Other quick deterrents:

• Make your cycle look unattractive (or, at least, unique) because bikes are stolen to be sold and a bike covered in tape, crappy paint, stickers, or rust will not sell for a lot.
• Have two bikes. A nice one for long rides. A beater for riding around town.
• If possible, don't leave your cycle outside overnight.

For a more in-depth analysis of cycle crime, this report (.doc file) hosted by the Oxford Cycle Workshop and written by Jonathan Standen, from the Thames Valley Police Cycles Unit is full of useful information about the methods cycle thieves that operate in the area.