Cycling is one of the best ways to commute to and from the University of Waterloo. The university currently provides dozens of open air bicycle racks, conveniently located close to all academic and residence buildings.
During the warm weather months many faculty, staff and students rely on bicycle travel as a preferred method of transportation. Unfortunately due to the increased number of bicycles on campus, the problem of bicycle thefts becomes a more prevalent concern. While it is not possible to make your bicycle 100% theft-proof, there are some simple steps that you can take to increase the security of your bicycle and its parts. In the time it takes you to read this headline someone can steal your bike.
If you are looking at buying a used bike from anyone, you can go to Canadian Police Information Centre to check and see if the bike is registered as stolen so you don't get taken by a thief. This is a great safety measure to ensure the bike is not indeed stolen.
- Always lock your bicycle. You should always secure your bicycle with a heavy-duty steel “U” lock.
- Never leave your bicycle unsecured even “just for a minute.”
- For added protection, pair the U-lock with a good quality cable lock.
- Always lock your bicycle to a proper bicycle rack.
- Lock your bicycle in well-lit and high pedestrian traffic areas.
- When at the bicycle rack keep watch for, and report all suspicious activities to UW Special Constable Service immediately!! 519-888-4911 (24 hrs.)
Locking your bicycle
Proper locking methods
| Proper locking example 1: Both frame and wheels secured to rack | Proper locking example 2: Both frame and wheels secured to rack |
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The University of Waterloo Special Constable Service recommends, whenever possible, you remove your bicycles components and bring them with you. If this is not practical, you can deter or slow down criminals by using a hose clamp to secure your bicycle's quick release wheels or seat.
Poor locking methods
| Poor locking example 1: Frame locked but not wheel, and bike not parked at a designated rack | Poor locking example 2: Wheel locked but not frame |
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Never use a cable style lock as your primary lock. Any type of cable or chain lock, regardless of their thickness, can be cut quickly and easily!
Register your bike with Project 529
Project 529 is a global bike registration and recovery program now active in Waterloo Region. Cyclists can register their bike for free on the 529 Garage app or website. If your bike is stolen, you can update your bike’s status on the app which alerts the others who are registered with 529 Garage to be on the lookout for your bike.
Refer to Sustainable Transportation’s Cycling page for more information.
Bicycle abandonment
University of Waterloo has the right to remove abandoned bicycles. The Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) in partnership with UW Special Constable Service have initiated a program where abandoned bicycles will be tagged to alert that the owner is to remove the bicycle within 30 days. If the owner fails to do so, the bicycle will have the lock cut and removed. These bicycles will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Campus Bike Store which enhances active transportation at the University.
The University of Waterloo is private property and has the authority to remove abandoned bicycles at their discretion.
Record your bicycle details
Unfortunately, thefts occasionally do occur at the University of Waterloo. If your bicycle is stolen, it will assist in recovering your property if you know the particulars of your bicycle.
If possible, retain the proof of purchase, take a photo of your bicycle and record the following details:
- Bicycle serial number
- The make
- The model
- The number of speeds
- Any unique markings or engravings