Police offer cyclists security tips after thieves saw through Cambridge bike racks

Cambridge police have advised cyclists to use tracking devices in a bid to combat bike thieves. The advice is one of a number of tips issued in response to the news that criminals have cut through metal racks in Green Street off Sidney Street.

One cyclist told Cambridge News: “It looks like they are sawing a bit through and then coming back to do a bit more, probably because they don’t want to be seen doing it so have to cut through the racks bit by bit.”

Would-be thieves have previously sliced through racks before taping them up so that they appear intact.

Sergeant Chris Horton said:

“It’s important that cyclists continue to use dedicated areas to lock their bikes and any criminal damage to the racks should be reported.

“In addition to using dedicated racks that are designed to prevent theft, we also recommend people use two decent D-locks. Cyclists can also make use of marking schemes and websites where property can be registered.

“We work closely with other forces including British Transport Police, Cambridge University and partner agencies to combat cycle crime.”

Police also issued the following series of tips:

• Use two locks (two D-locks or a D-lock and another type)
• Use quality locks
• Use a tracking device
• Use proper locking techniques
• Log bike with Bike Register (or a similar site)

Horton has previously said that the vast majority of theft reports the force receives do not include the frame number. “The public always report the registration number of their stolen cars and I would like us to move towards the same in Cambridge when it comes to reporting stolen bikes and the frame number.”

For more advice on combating thieves, take a look at our Bike Locking Bible.