Bike theft remains a persistent problem, affecting cyclists across North America. The 2025 Bike Index Annual Bike Theft Report sheds light on the latest trends, statistics, and preventative measures that every rider should know. At Rize Bikes, we’re committed to helping our community stay informed and protected. Here’s what the report reveals:
Bike Theft Is on the Rise
Despite some national crime reports suggesting a decrease in theft, data from Bike Index tells a different story:
- Over 118,942 bikes were reported stolen in 2024—a 15% increase from the previous year.
- Many thefts go unreported, with estimates suggesting 40-75% of stolen bikes never make it into police records.
- E-bikes are becoming a bigger target for thieves due to their high resale value.
Where Are Bikes Stolen?
Bike theft isn’t random; it often happens in predictable locations:
- Residential areas (59% of thefts occur near homes, including garages and basements).
- Parking facilities (apartment bike storage areas are frequent targets).
- Sidewalks and bike racks, where thieves can easily cut weak locks.
The True Impact of Bike Theft
Losing a bike is more than just an inconvenience:
- 47% of victims report disruptions to their daily commutes.
- Nearly 50% take over a month to replace their stolen bike, and 11% don’t replace it at all.
- Many riders express emotional distress, as stolen bikes often hold sentimental value.
How to Protect Your Bike
Preventing bike theft requires proactive steps:
- Register your bike with a service like Bike Index. It increases the chances of recovery and makes resale harder for thieves.
- Use high-quality locks—preferably two U-locks or a U-lock paired with a heavy-duty chain.
- Avoid leaving your bike in common theft hotspots (like open garages or poorly monitored bike racks).
- Remove quick-release parts, such as your seat and front wheel, when parking in public.
Does Bike Registration Work? Absolutely.
Cities that have implemented bike registration programs have seen higher recovery rates and lower theft numbers:
- Edmonton Police Service has recovered over $1 million in stolen bikes since adopting Bike Index.
- Calgary doubled its bike recovery rate in one year after increasing registrations.
Final Thoughts
The battle against bike theft is ongoing, but as riders, we can take action to protect our bikes and support recovery efforts. At Rize Bikes, we encourage all riders to invest in quality security measures and register their bikes to ensure a safer cycling experience.
Haven't registered your bike yet? Register for free on Bike Index.
