Dozens of bikes stolen

Photo: File photo

Close to $100,000 worth of bicycles have been stolen in Kamloops in just over a month this year.

RCMP Cpl. Jodie Shelkie said between June 1 and July 9, police responded to 51 theft of bicycle files involving the theft of 64 bikes.

The approximate value of the stolen bikes is $95,000.

People are reminded to lock their bikes up, but even that might not be enough to stop a determined thief as Shelkie said 51 per cent of the stolen bikes were locked.

Of the other bikes stolen, 35 per cent were unlocked and 14 per cent were unknown.

“The bikes reported stolen range from children’s bikes - ranging in price from $100 to $300 - to high-end specialized bikes, ranging from $2,000 to $8,500,” said Shelkie. “The majority of bikes were taken from residences, with 61 per cent stolen from a garage or a backyard. Bikes left outside of businesses accounted for 22 per cent and 14 per cent were removed from vehicles. The majority of these vehicles were parked at hotels.”

Shelkie recommends travellers either bring their bikes into their hotel rooms or, if possible, in the hotel's secure storage area.

“Always bring your bike inside your house or locked garage at night,” added Shelkie.

A quality lock is also recommended when leaving a bike outdoors. While it may not stop all thieves, a high-end lock could deter someone looking for a quick steal.

“Don’t forget to lock your wheels and your saddle. Quick releases and hex bolts make it easy for thieves to take these components. Most parts on a bike can be removed with a screwdriver or Allen wrench. A good way to protect the wheels and seat post is to replace regular screws and bolts for locking skewers – rods with complicated bolts-heads that require a special key to remove,” said Shelkie. “To help deter theft and aid in its return if stolen, register your bike on the 529 Garage app. Always write down the serial number of your bike and keep a photo of it on file.”